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A Manhattan cocktail.

Manhattan

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Another classic from the pre-prohibition era of cocktails, the Manhattan has been around since the late 1800's. As with other simple Whiskey cocktails, don't worry about those who say you're ruining perfectly good Rye. Use this cocktail as a way to enjoy Rye even more.
If you enjoy a Martini, this drink may be a good way to get into Whiskey as well. It has a similar idea behind it and, of course, the Vermouth takes the edge off. If you found this cocktail by searching by ingredient, you're good, but if you stumbled upon this cocktail recipe, you may not have Orange Bitters on hand, as it's slightly less standard. Don't be tempted to skip this important ingredient! It really makes the drink. Feel free to try to mix the drink without Orange Bitters, but then try it again and see the different.
For those who don't usually enjoy Whiskey, the Manhattan may be a good introduction. The Sweet Vermouth softens the Whiskey somewhat while also opening it up. All in all, this is an enjoyable drink.
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings 1 cocktail

Ingredients

  • 60 mL Rye Whiskey try Bourbon too.
  • 30 mL Sweet Vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 1 dash Orange Bitters
  • Garnish with lemon twist or cherry (optional)

Instructions

  • Add Rye, Sweet Vermouth, and both Bitters to a mixing glass with plenty of ice. Stir until the drink is cold.
  • Strain into a chilled Coupe glass.
  • Garnish, serve, and enjoy.

Notes

Make sure to use a good Rye in this cocktail. The drink is mostly just Rye, so you want to enjoy it. Your cocktail will only be as good as the ingredients you use, so use good ingredients.
On ingredients, make sure you have some Orange Bitters. If you're new to starting a home bar, you may not have Orange Bitters on hand, but go out and buy some. Orange Bitters appears in more than a few cocktails and it will be good to have when you need it. Orange Bitters really adds an extra something to a Manhattan and a lot of other cocktails. It's well worth buying.