Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Rye whiskey: A type of whiskey made primarily from rye grain, known for its spicy and robust flavor.

Sweet vermouth: A fortified wine flavored with various botanicals, adding a sweet and aromatic complexity to the cocktail.

Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, essential for adding depth and balance to the drink.

Maraschino cherry: A preserved, sweet cherry used as a garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

When stirring the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters in the mixing glass, make sure to use a long-handled bar spoon and stir gently but consistently. This helps to properly chill and dilute the cocktail without over-aerating it, ensuring a smooth and balanced Manhattan.

• rye whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon provides a slightly sweeter and smoother profile compared to rye whiskey, which can add a different but pleasant twist to the cocktail.

• sweet vermouth - Substitute with dry vermouth: Dry vermouth will make the cocktail less sweet and more herbaceous, offering a different balance of flavors.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters add a citrusy note that complements the whiskey and vermouth, providing a refreshing variation.

• maraschino cherry - Substitute with lemon twist: A lemon twist adds a zesty aroma and a touch of acidity, which can brighten up the drink and offer a different garnish option.

• To store your Manhattan cocktail, pour any leftover mixture into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain the cocktail's integrity and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in.

• Place the sealed container in the refrigerator. The Manhattan can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the cocktail. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal the container tightly.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen Manhattan, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once thawed, give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients.

• If you prefer to have individual servings ready to go, pour the cocktail into ice cube trays before freezing. Once frozen, transfer the cocktail cubes to a freezer bag. When you're ready for a drink, simply pop a few cubes into a glass and let them melt.

• Always garnish your Manhattan with a maraschino cherry just before serving to ensure the garnish remains fresh and vibrant.

• If you find yourself with a leftover Manhattan cocktail, the best way to enjoy it again is to avoid reheating it in the traditional sense. Instead, consider these methods to bring it back to its original glory:
  • Chill it again: Pour the leftover cocktail into a mixing glass with fresh ice. Stir until well-chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Add fresh ingredients: If the flavors have dulled, add a small splash of fresh rye whiskey and sweet vermouth. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
  • Garnish refresh: Replace the old maraschino cherry with a fresh one to enhance the presentation and flavor.
  • Ice cube method: Freeze the leftover Manhattan in an ice cube tray. When ready to enjoy, place a few cocktail cubes in a glass and let them melt slightly before sipping.

• Mixing glass: A sturdy glass used to combine and chill the ingredients by stirring with ice.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon designed for stirring cocktails efficiently and evenly.

• Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure precise amounts of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth.

• Strainer: A device used to strain the chilled cocktail mixture into the glass, leaving the ice behind.

• Cocktail glass: A chilled glass used to serve the Manhattan cocktail, enhancing its presentation and keeping it cold.

• Ice: Essential for chilling the drink during the mixing process.

• Maraschino cherry: Used as a garnish to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal to the cocktail.

Pre-chill your glass: Store your cocktail glass in the freezer ahead of time to ensure it's perfectly chilled when you're ready to serve.

Batch your ingredients: Measure out the rye whiskey and sweet vermouth in advance and store them in a sealed container in the fridge.

Use a bar spoon: A long-handled bar spoon makes stirring the cocktail with ice more efficient and ensures even chilling.

Quick garnish: Keep a jar of maraschino cherries within easy reach to quickly add the finishing touch.