Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Manhattan cocktails are a versatile classic. You can alter their flavor by using different types of whiskey, vermouth, or bitters. Traditionally, bartenders serve Manhattans in martini glasses garnished with maraschino cherries. Mixologists who want to serve Manhattans on the rocks opt for lowball or coupe glasses. Whichever serving vessel you choose, the Manhattan cocktail recipe is an easy-to-make classic that has satisfied customers for over a century.
Shop All Martini GlassesHow to Make a Manhattan Cocktail Video
Use the following video to learn how to make a Manhattan cocktail:
Manhattan Recipe
This manhattan cocktail recipe makes 1 drink.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Manhattan Cocktail Ingredients
- 2 1/2 ounces whiskey
- 3/4 ounces sweet vermouth
- 1 dash of Angostura bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry
Directions
- Add whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass.
- Stir the mixture to combine ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass or a lowball glass with ice.
- Garnish with maraschino cherry and serve.
What Is a Manhattan Cocktail?
The Manhattan is one of the oldest known cocktail recipes, with origins dating back to the late 1800s. It has remained one of the most popular cocktails in the U.S., even through the Prohibition era. This cocktail has a perfect balance of flavors as the sweetness of the vermouth, the booziness of whiskey, and the sharpness of the bitters combine to create a rich palatal impression.
Which Fruit Is the Traditional Garnish for a Manhattan Cocktail?
Maraschino cherry is the traditional garnish for a classic Manhattan cocktail. Many bartenders also like to include an orange peel.
History of the Manhattan Cocktail
The true origins of the Manhattan cocktail are shrouded in mystery, and no one is positive where or when the cocktail emerged. One of the most popular stories surrounding the creation of the drink is that it originated in New York City's Manhattan Club circa 1874. Legend has it that the cocktail was concocted at a party thrown in honor of politician Samuel J. Tilden by Jennie Jerome, a socialite who would become the mother of Winston Churchill. They held the party at the Manhattan Club, so the cocktail took the name of its birthplace.
While this theory is popular, it has been debunked over the years because, at the time of the supposed party, Jennie Jerome was in Europe, pregnant with her first child. Now, many historians believe the drink originated in the 1860s, but the exact date and place are still unknown. Although the true origins of the Manhattan are a mystery, the recipe has survived and is still one of the most popular cocktails today.
The Manhattan is a timeless cocktail people drink in bars, country clubs, cigar lounges, and banquet halls across the world. Since there are only three ingredients in the recipe, your bartender can pour these drinks out fast and keep the service moving. You can also reinvent this simple mixed drink and offer creative twists on the classic Manhattan cocktail.
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A Beginner's Guide to Vermouth
If you have a fundamental knowledge of cocktails, you probably know that vermouth is the supporting ingredient in a classic martini. But what exactly is vermouth and what flavors does it add to a drink? We’ll explore this underrated cocktail ingredient and explain why it's a staple for aspiring bartenders and mixologists. What Is Vermouth? Vermouth is a type of fortified wine that has been aromatized with botanicals, herbs, and spices. It’s typically made by infusing a base wine with a mixture of flavorings and then fortifying it with a neutral spirit. In this context, the term "fortified" means that more alcohol is added to the wine, which raises its ABV and changes its flavor. The result is a complex alcoholic ingredient that adds depth and character to a wide range of cocktails. What Is a Neutral Spirit? Simply put, a neutral spirit is a highly distilled alcohol that is neutral in flavor and aroma. The addition of a neutral spirit in the production of vermouth helps to stabilize the wine and prevent spoilage. Most importantly, the botanicals are typically macerated or steeped in the neutral spirit before being added to the base wine. This allows the vermouth to develop its characteristic aromas and herbal flavors. What Does Vermouth Taste Like? You'll hear vermouth described as having an herbaceous, floral, and spicy flavor. Its distinctive taste comes from a combination of fragrant ingredients but the exact recipe varies between brands. Bitter components like wormwood or gentian root are commonly used to provide a balanced complexity to sweet flavors. The floral profile associated with vermouth often comes from ingredients like angelica root and chamomile. Finally, citrus and spice notes in vermouth may come from the addition of coriander and orange peel. The careful blending of different types of herbs and botanicals is what makes vermouth such a popular cocktail ingredient. What Is Vermouth Used For? Vermouth often plays a supporting role in cocktails because it adds depth and complexity. It's a versatile bar ingredient to keep on hand for that reason, but it also has other uses. Classic Cocktails: Vermouth is a staple in classic cocktails. In a martini, vermouth brings balance to the strong flavors of gin or vodka, adding a subtle sweetness and herbal undertones. In a Negroni, vermouth combines with gin and Campari to create a bittersweet symphony of flavors. If you're a fan of the Manhattan, you'll know that vermouth is an essential component that complements the richness of whiskey. These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating classic cocktails with vermouth. Aperitifs: Vermouth is a key player in the world of aperitifs, which are drinks traditionally consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. In Europe, it's common to enjoy a glass of vermouth on the rocks or with a splash of soda water as a refreshing pre-dinner drink. The bitterness and herbal notes of vermouth make it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter, less boozy option before their main course. Cooking: Vermouth isn't just for sipping - it can also be a secret weapon in the kitchen. Its complex flavors can enhance the taste of various dishes, particularly those that call for white wine or stock. Use vermouth as a deglazing agent when sauteing vegetables or searing meats to add depth and complexity to your dishes. It also works wonders in sauces, because its herbal character can elevate the flavors of different types of pasta sauces or savory reductions. The Difference Between Dry and Sweet Vermouth When it comes to vermouth, there are two main varieties: dry and sweet. Dry vermouth is known for its sharp and herbaceous flavor profile. It has a clear to pale-yellow color and adds a floral note to cocktails. On the other hand, sweet vermouth has a warm, spicy taste with a brownish-red hue. We'll go over the different types of vermouth in more depth below. Types of Vermouth The different types of vermouth are infused with aromatic flavors that give each variety a unique flavor profile. Sweet Vermouth: Also known as red or Italian vermouth, sweet vermouth is infused with a variety of botanicals, including herbs, spices, and sometimes even fruits. The resulting flavor is rich, sweet, and slightly bitter. Its bold and robust flavor profile pairs well with different types of whisky like bourbon and rye. It's a misconception that sweet red vermouth is made with red wine because of its color. The brownish-red color actually comes from adding caramel coloring to a white wine base. Dry Vermouth: Dry vermouth, also referred to as white or French vermouth, has a lighter and more delicate taste compared to its sweet counterpart. It is made using white wine and infused with a blend of herbs and botanicals, but with a lower sugar content. Its crisp and herbaceous flavor profile complements light spirits like gin and vodka. Bianco Vermouth: Bianco vermouth, also known as white vermouth, falls somewhere in between sweet and dry vermouth. It is made from a base of white wine and infused with botanicals that include both sweet and bitter elements. Bianco vermouth offers a balanced flavor profile that works well in a variety of cocktails. Its versatility makes it a great choice for experimenting with new recipes. Rose Vermouth: Rose vermouth is a relatively newer addition to the vermouth family. It is made by infusing rose wine with a unique blend of botanicals. Rose vermouth offers a refreshing and fruity flavor profile that is perfect for summer cocktails. Its vibrant pink hue adds a touch of elegance to any drink. Rose vermouth can be used in a wide range of cocktails or enjoyed on its own over ice with a splash of soda water. Extra Dry Vermouth: Extra dry vermouth is the driest of all vermouth types. It has a minimal sugar content and a more pronounced herbal flavor. Extra dry vermouth is primarily used as a modifier in cocktails, adding depth and complexity without overpowering the other ingredients. It is commonly used in classic cocktails like the dry martini. Vermouth FAQ If you're still looking for answers, we answer some common questions about vermouth below. What Does Vermouth Add to a Martini? Vermouth acts as a bridge between the spirits and other ingredients in the martini. It helps to meld the flavors together, creating a harmonious and well-integrated cocktail. Without vermouth, a Martini would lack the smoothness and complexity that has made it a timeless classic. What's the Difference between a Wet and Dry Martini? A dry martini typically has a higher ratio of gin or vodka, resulting in a more spirit-forward and bracing cocktail. On the other hand, a wet martini contains a higher proportion of vermouth, which lends a softer and more rounded flavor to the drink. Is Vermouth Considered a Liquor or Wine? Vermouth belongs to a category called fortified wines. It starts as a base wine, typically a white wine, which is then fortified by adding a distilled spirit with a neutral taste. This fortification process increases the alcohol content of the wine, giving it a more robust and complex flavor profile. So, while vermouth is technically a wine due to its fermented grape juice base, it is also classified as a liquor because of the addition of spirits. In regards to liquor licenses, vermouth is considered a type of liquor and most states require a full liquor license to sell it in your business. Can You Drink Vermouth Straight? Yes, vermouth can be enjoyed on its own without any other mixers. When sipped straight, vermouth offers a complex and aromatic experience. It can be served chilled, on the rocks, and garnished with a twist of citrus peel or a few drops of cocktail bitters to enhance the flavors. Whether you're looking to elevate your cocktails or enhance your culinary creations, vermouth offers a range of options to suit your needs. From the classic dry and sweet varieties to the more adventurous red and white options, there's a vermouth for every palate. Experiment with different brands and styles to find your favorites, and don't be afraid to get creative with your mixology.
Easy Ways to Update Your Cocktail Menu
Creating a well-balanced, exciting cocktail menu takes time and the occasional adjustment. Keeping things fresh and exciting for your regulars can keep them coming back, and it’s a great way to attract new customers to your bar. Staying aware of changing trends in bars can help you keep your offerings feeling modern while staying true to your brand. If you’re looking for a few easy updates, try incorporating the suggestions below into your drink menu. If you want to skip ahead to a specific section, click the links below: Create Savory Culinary Cocktails Cocktail and Food Pairings Grow Your Own Ingredients Incorporate Tea into Cocktails Medicinal and Herbal Cocktails Create Savory Culinary Cocktails Taking the savory route allows mixologists to balance flavors similar to how a chef creates a plate of food. While this isn’t necessarily a new concept (think of a spicy bloody mary and salt-rimmed margarita), bartenders are finding new and creative ways to play with savory flavors. Cocktails featuring vegetable juices, like carrot or beet, not only look great, but they can add unique flavor elements to your menu. You’ll even see cocktails that incorporate ingredients like roasted red peppers or spicy jalapenos. What Is Fat-Washing? Fat-washing is the process of using a fat such as butter, duck fat, or oil to infuse savory flavors into a cocktail. To fat-wash, mix a liquid fat (such as melted butter) into your spirit of choice. Allow the mixture to sit out at room temperature for several hours before chilling in the refrigerator. Once the fat solidifies, skim it off the top of the drink. The spirit is now infused with the fat flavoring. Here are a few savory cocktails to get you started: Bullshot: vodka, beef bouillon or broth, Worcestshire sauce Rosemary Salty Dog: gin, grapefruit juice, rosemary syrup Thyme Lemonade: gin, fresh thyme, lemon juice, sugar Cocktail and Food Pairings Similar to the idea of wine pairings, cocktail pairings provide limitless options because of their diverse nature. Here are a few food pairing ideas for classic cocktails: Margarita: ceviche, jerk chicken, samosas, or pulled pork Gin and Tonic: smoked salmon, charcuterie board, curry, or fish and chips Martini: shrimp cocktail, hummus and chips, grilled fish, or stuffed mushrooms Mimosa: scrambled eggs, risotto, lobster, or bagel and lox Old Fashioned: bacon-wrapped dates, pork chops, spiced and roasted pecans, or duck confit Grow Your Own Ingredients Creating a hyperlocal source for your ingredients is an on-trend way to appeal to your environmentally or health-conscious consumers. Growing your own fruits, herbs, and vegetables is cost-effective and allows you to gain total control over the handling of your produce. If it’s feasible for your bar or restaurant, consider maintaining a small garden plot either on your property or somewhere local. You can even try breeding your plants to yield unique flavor qualities or preserve heirloom integrity. And while it may not be viable to grow enough produce to cover the needs of your entire food menu, the small quantities required for cocktails makes the endeavor a lot more manageable. Incorporate Tea into Cocktails From earl gray to chamomile, teas are trickling into our cocktails with their warm, aromatic flavors. Hot or cold, tea pairs well with a variety of different liquors, and the subtle flavors won’t overpower the nuances of top shelf selections. As with many cocktail trends, tea is not a new ingredient for mixologists. In fact, most old school party punch recipes include tea as a major component. But while the old classics can serve as a nod to the past, you may also see more modern interpretations popping up on menus around you. Here are a few tea-infused cocktails to get you started: Black Tea Rum Punch: white rum, loose black tea, pineapple juice, apricot liqueur, simple syrup, lime and lemon juice, bitters Green Tea Mojito: white rum, lime juice, sugar, brewed and chilled green tea, mint Chamomile Tequila Sour: tequila, chamomile simple syrup, lime Medicinal and Herbal Cocktails Using apothecary-inspired ingredients isn’t a new concept, but rather a modern interpretation of an old belief. That’s because many believe that cocktails first got their start as mixtures intended to treat ailments. Tonic water and bitters are two extremely common cocktail ingredients, and they both found their beginnings in medicine. The juniper flavor of gin likely wound up there because juniper was traditionally used to treat a wide array of health problems. It's the same story with Fernet and Sambuca, which both originated as digestifs and are still believed to play some role in aiding digestion after meals While the herbal remedies that find their way into today’s cocktails are more for flavor than anything else, the folkloric quality of the ingredients contributes to the mood of the drink and tone of the overall experience. There’s any number of reasons for the resurgence of interest in medicinal cocktails including the uprising of health drinks like kombucha or the desire to incorporate unconventional ingredients into culinary cocktails. Here are a few common medicinal cocktails: Hot Toddy: bourbon, honey, lemon juice, hot water Bees Knees: gin, lemon juice, honey Hot Buttered Rum: spiced rum, brown sugar, butter, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, hot water While drinking alcohol isn’t necessarily healthy, indulging in the occasional artisanal cocktail can be good for the soul. A focus on high-quality ingredients, new flavor combinations, and a touch of herbal remedy can help boost profits from your drink menu. Offering unique cocktails that can’t be found anywhere else can be a big draw for your establishment. So, while you may want to keep some of the old classics, embracing some new approaches to the way you develop your cocktails can provide guests with an exciting experience.
The 12 Drinks of Christmas
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread some cheer than with festive cocktails? As a restaurant or bar owner, offering a special Christmas cocktail menu can attract customers and add a touch of holiday spirit to your establishment. From classic favorites like eggnog and mulled wine to creative concoctions like spiked hot cocoa and horchata, there are endless possibilities. Get inspired to update your seasonal menu with this list of holiday cocktails. Shop All Holiday Drink Syrups Christmas Cocktails Our Christmas alcoholic drinks are delicious any time of year, but they'll add some festive flair to your drink menu during the cold winter months. This list of holiday cocktail recipes has something for everyone, from chocolate lovers to eggnog fans. Find your new favorite winter cocktail below! Click below to see our Christmas cocktail recipes: 1. Blue Christmas Cocktail 2. Ano Nuevo Horchata 3. Winter Sea Breeze 4. Red Stag Dirty Shirley 5. Peppermint Hot Cocoa 6. Winter Sangria 7. Cinnamon Candy Apple 8. Mulled Wine Sangria 9. Whipped Caramel Hot Cocoa 10. Salted Caramel Martini 11. Chambord Kir Royale 12. Eggnog Cocktail Recipe 1. Blue Christmas Cocktail Recipe If you're looking for a unique holiday drink with a stunning presentation, try our Blue Christmas cocktail. You'll be anything but blue after one sip of this brightly colored drink. Ingredients Lemon wedges for rimming and garnish 3 Tablespoons gold or yellow sanding sugar 3 Tablespoons Monin blue raspberry syrup 2 ounces Blue Curacao 2 ounces vodka 2 ounces white rum 12 ounce bottle Boylan lemon seltzer Directions Rim two rocks glasses using lemon wedge and dip into gold sanding sugar. In shaker filled with ice, combine raspberry syrup, Curacao, vodka, and rum. Shake to chill. Place one large ice cube in each glass. Strain drink into both glasses and top with lemon seltzer. Garnish drinks with lemon curls or wedges and serve. 2. Ano Nuevo Horchata Recipe Try this sophisticated twist on a Dalgona coffee recipe! You may have seen whipped coffee on social media, but our non-dairy version is spiked with tequila and has the festive flavor of a classic horchata drink. Ingredients 3 Tablespoons coarse sanding sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg 2 ounces Kahlua 4 ounces tequila 3 ounces dark agave syrup 4 Tablespoons hot water 4 Tablespoons espresso powder 4 ounces almond milk, ice cold Directions Combine sugar and cinnamon on plate or glass rimmer. Wet rims of two highball glasses and dip into sanding sugar mixture. In shaker filled with ice, combine nutmeg, Kalua, tequila, and dark agave. Shake to chill. In large glass, combine hot water and espresso powder. Using milk frother, whip coffee to form stiff peaks. Fill glasses with ice. Strain equal amounts of tequila mixture into each glass. Pour 2 ounces of almond milk into each glass. Top almond milk with whipped Dalgona coffee mixture and serve immediately. 3. Winter Sea Breeze Recipe The winter sea breeze is a bubbly, refreshing cocktail with grapefruit juice and a hint of mint. Try offering this festive drink instead of mimosas at your holiday brunch. Ingredients 1 ounces vodka 1 ounces grapefruit juice 2 ounces tonic water Pomegranate seeds Cranberries Mint leaves Directions Mix vodka, grapefruit juice, and tonic water in a cocktail shaker. Fill a glass with ice and pour in drink mixture. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, cranberries, and mint, then serve. 4. Red Stag Dirty Shirley Recipe Red Stag bourbon meets cherry syrup and a bubbly splash of lemon-lime soda in this holiday cocktail. It's the grown-up version of the Shirley Temple! Ingredients 1/2 ounces grenadine 1 1/2 ounces Red Stag black cherry bourbon 5 ounces lemon-lime soda Splash of maraschino cherry syrup Maraschino cherries Directions Pour grenadine, cherry bourbon, soda, and maraschino cherry syrup into glass filled with ice and stir. Garnish with maraschino cherry and serve. 5. Peppermint Hot Cocoa Recipe This rich beverage has the ideal ratio of chocolate to peppermint, making it the perfect drink to enjoy after dinner or on a cool night while relaxing by the fireplace. Ingredients 5 ounces prepared hot cocoa 1 ounces peppermint schnapps Marshmallows Directions Prepare hot chocolate per mix directions. Pour hot chocolate and peppermint schnapps into glass or mug and stir. Toast marshmallows over range or with a butane torch. Garnish with torched marshmallows and serve. 6. Winter Sangria Recipe This holiday sangria is full of apples, cranberries, and raspberries. Our recipe yields 1 pitcher of sangria that you can chill overnight and serve the next day at your catered brunch or holiday party. Ingredients 1/3 cup triple sec 1 bottle dry white wine 2 apples, cubed 1 cup fresh cranberries 1 pint red raspberries Simple syrup to taste 12 ounces Sprite Rosemary sprigs Directions Mix all ingredients except Sprite and rosemary sprigs in pitcher. Refrigerate mixture until it’s chilled and you’re ready to serve it. Add Sprite to pitcher just before serving. Garnish each glass with rosemary sprig and serve. Back to Top 7. Cinnamon Candy Apple Recipe Red and green are layered into a festive shot that looks as good as it tastes! Start the fun early and warm up your guests by serving this sweet and spicy shot. Ingredients 3/4 ounces sour apple schnapps 3/4 ounces cinnamon whiskey or tequila Red food coloring Directions Pour sour apple schnapps into shot glass. Color cinnamon liquor with red food coloring. Layer cinnamon liquor over schnapps by pouring it slowly over back of a spoon. Serve immediately. 8. Mulled Wine Sangria Recipe We combined the fruity flavor of a classic sangria with the fragrant spices of mulled wine. Warm up your holiday guests with this mulled wine sangria recipe. Ingredients 1 bottle red wine 1/2 cup brandy 1/4 cup triple sec 1 lime, sliced 1 lemon, sliced 1 apple, sliced 1 pear, sliced 3 mandarin orange slices Handful of cranberries 1 cup orange juice 1 teaspoon cloves 1/2 teaspoon allspice 3 cinnamon sticks Sugar to taste Lemon-lime soda or club soda (optional, for sparkle) Directions Pour brandy, triple sec, fruit, and all but 1 cup of red wine into pitcher and stir, then set aside. In saucepan, combine orange juice, spices, and remaining red wine. Bring mixture to simmer. Add granulated sugar to simmering mixture if you desire a sweeter beverage. Simmer mixture for 10-15 minutes, then strain liquid through a cheesecloth and strainer to remove whole spices. Add this mixture to pitcher and refrigerate it overnight. Pour sangria into individual wine glasses and serve. If you want to add sparkle and sweetness, top mixture off with splash of 7 Up or Sprite. Or use club soda to add sparkle without any extra sweetness. 9. Whipped Caramel Hot Cocoa Recipe Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, this hot and steamy drink is perfect for cuddling up after a long day in the bitter cold! Ingredients 7 ounces prepared hot cocoa 3/4 ounce whipped cream-flavored vodka 3/4 ounce caramel vodka Whipped cream 1 ounce dark chocolate, for garnish Directions Prepare hot cocoa and pour it into glass mug. Stir whipped cream vodka and caramel vodka into hot cocoa. Prepare dark chocolate shavings by using a chocolate shaver or vegetable peeler. Top mixture with whipped cream and dark chocolate shavings and serve. 10. Salted Caramel Martini Recipe Nothing beats the flavor combination of sweet and salty, all wrapped up in a beautifully decorated holiday martini! Ingredients Chocolate syrup Caramel syrup 2 ounces Bailey's caramel liqueur, plus extra for garnishing Kosher salt 2 ounces salted caramel vodka 1 ounce chocolate vodka 1 ounce dark creme de cocoa 1/2 ounce half and half 1 ounces salted caramel syrup Directions Line interior of martini glass with chocolate and caramel syrups, and place it in freezer until syrups harden. Rim glass with extra Bailey's caramel liqueur and kosher salt. Shake salted caramel vodka, chocolate vodka, dark creme de cocoa, half and half, salted caramel syrup, and 2 ounces of Bailey's caramel liquor in cocktail shaker and pour into garnished martini glass. 11. Chambord Kir Royale Recipe Ring in the New Year the right way with our Chambord Kir Royal cocktail recipe! Make a special toast this season with the refreshing taste of raspberry and a spritz of your favorite champagne. Ingredients 1/4 ounce Chambord Champagne Lemon twist Directions Pour Chambord into flute glass. Top Chambord with champagne. Garnish with lemon twist and serve. 12. Eggnog Cocktail Recipe One of the most traditional holiday beverages is now featured as an elegant eggnog cocktail. Rimmed with classic spiced cookies, this dessert beverage makes the perfect finish to your holiday dinner. Ingredients 4 ounces full-fat eggnog, plus extra for garnishing Spiced cookies, crushed 2 ounces spiced rum 1 ounce vanilla vodka 1 ounce dark rum 1/2 ounce eggnog syrup Cinnamon sugar Freshly ground nutmeg Directions Wet rim of glass with extra eggnog and dip into crushed spiced cookies. Mix spiced rum, vanilla vodka, dark rum, eggnog syrup, and 4 ounces of eggnog in cocktail shaker. Pour mixture into rimmed glass. Garnish with cinnamon sugar and nutmeg and serve. Back to Top Count down the 12 days of Christmas with these classic holiday drinks and put your patrons in the holiday spirit. Get ready for the holiday season and update your beverage menu with any of our festive drinks and cocktails.