🇺🇸 USA · Drinks
The Iconic Manhattan Cocktail
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇺🇸 USAn iconic American cocktail born in New York, the Manhattan is a sophisticated and potent blend of rye or bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of aromatic bitters, stirred until perfectly chilled and garnished with a luxurious cherry.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Begin by chilling your chosen serving glass, typically a coupe or martini glass, in the freezer for at least 5 minutes. A well-chilled glass is crucial for maintaining the cocktail's temperature and elegance.
- 2
In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz (60ml) of your preferred Rye or Bourbon whiskey, 1 oz (30ml) sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. These three ingredients form the heart of the Manhattan, so measure precisely.
- 3
Add a generous amount of fresh ice to the mixing glass. You want to fill it almost to the top to ensure proper chilling and dilution of the spirits.
- 4
Stir the mixture gently yet consistently with a bar spoon for about 30-45 seconds. The goal is to chill the cocktail thoroughly and achieve optimal dilution, which should make the outside of the mixing glass feel frosty to the touch.
- 5
Strain the perfectly chilled cocktail directly into your pre-chilled coupe or martini glass. This ensures a smooth, ice-free sip, highlighting the liquid's clarity and rich color.
- 6
For the classic garnish, place 1 luxurious cocktail cherry (ideally a brandied or Luxardo cherry) at the bottom of the glass before straining, or gently drop it in afterward. The cherry adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant visual contrast.
- 7
Serve your iconic Manhattan immediately. It's a robust yet elegant drink, best savored slowly to appreciate its complex layers of flavor and smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use Rye or Bourbon whiskey for a Manhattan?+
Traditionally, Rye whiskey is used for its spicier, drier profile, resulting in a 'Dry Manhattan'. Using Bourbon creates a 'Sweet Manhattan' with a smoother, sweeter, and slightly rounder flavor. Both are excellent; it's a matter of personal preference.
What kind of sweet vermouth is best?+
High-quality sweet vermouth, such as Carpano Antica Formula or Martini & Rossi Rosso, is essential. Since it's a significant component, a good vermouth will elevate the overall flavor profile of your Manhattan. Store opened vermouth in the refrigerator.
Why is stirring preferred over shaking for a Manhattan?+
Manhattans, like other spirit-forward cocktails, are stirred, not shaken. Stirring dilutes and chills the drink slowly, resulting in a smoother texture and a clearer appearance, without introducing unwanted air bubbles or 'bruising' the spirits.
Can I make a Perfect Manhattan?+
Yes, a 'Perfect Manhattan' uses equal parts sweet vermouth and dry vermouth instead of just sweet vermouth. This balances the sweetness with a drier, herbaceous note, offering a more nuanced flavor profile.
