The Manhattan is a classic cocktail believed to have been first created in the late 19th century at the Manhattan Club in New York City.
This cocktail is based on bourbon or rye whiskey, mixed with sweet vermouth and Angostura bitters, giving it a sweet, slightly bitter flavor and smooth texture.
The weighty body of the bourbon, the herbal notes of the vermouth, and the layered complexity of the bitters combine to deliver classic elegance, making it a favorite in bars and hotels around the world for over a century.
After straining, the alcohol content is about 25โ28%, which is strong but becomes smooth and mellow thanks to dilution from the ice.
It is considered a representative drink of the โstirโ technique in cocktail culture and is especially well-suited to quiet gatherings or sophisticated bar settings.
- 1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- 2. Add 50ml bourbon whiskey, 20ml sweet vermouth, and 2โ3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- 3. Stir gently to chill.
- 4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- 5. Garnish with a cherry or orange peel.
Tip Using rye whiskey gives a spicier, drier profile, while bourbon offers a smoother, richer flavor.