This classic, boozy cocktail is made with a simple mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The Manhattan is a strong, spirit-forward drink that showcases the flavors of your whiskey of choice. A sweet cocktail cherry is the signature garnish.
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and fill it about ¾ with ice.
Stir until very cold, about 30 seconds. Strain the liquid into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a cocktail cherry or an expressed lemon twist (or both).
Notes
6 Manhattan Variations to Try:
Black Manhattan: 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz Averna Amaro, 1 dash Angostura bitters, 1 dash orange bitters, cocktail cherry for garnish.Dry Manhattan: 2 oz rye or bourbon whiskey, 1 oz dry vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, cocktail cherry for garnish.Perfect Manhattan: 2 oz rye or bourbon whiskey, ½ oz sweet vermouth, ½ oz dry vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, cocktail cherry for garnish.Rob Roy: 2 oz blended Scotch whisky, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, cocktail cherry for garnish.Revolver: 2 oz bourbon whiskey, ½ oz coffee liqueur, 2 dashes orange bitters, orange twist for garnish.Remember the Maine: 2 oz rye whiskey, ¾ oz sweet vermouth, 2 teaspoon Cherry Heering, absinthe rinse, lemon twist for garnish.