The True Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. Made with a combination of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it is a drink that is sure to please any whiskey lover. The origins of the True Manhattan are somewhat uncertain, but it is believed to have been created in the late 19th century in Manhattan, New York.
The recipe for the True Manhattan is simple, but the balance of flavors is what sets it apart. The whiskey provides a rich and smoky base, while the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and depth. The bitters help to round out the flavors and add a subtle complexity to the drink. The True Manhattan is traditionally stirred, not shaken, to preserve the flavors and produce a smooth and elegant cocktail. It is typically served in a chilled cocktail glass and garnished with a cherry, although some variations may include a twist of lemon or orange peel.
Ingredients for True Manhattan
The True Manhattan cocktail is made using the following ingredients:
- 2 oz Rye whiskey
- 1 oz Sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 Maraschino cherry, for garnish
Rye whiskey is the main spirit used in a True Manhattan. It is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from rye grain and has a distinctive flavor profile. Rye whiskey adds a spicy and robust character to the cocktail, which pairs well with the other ingredients.
Sweet vermouth is a key ingredient in the True Manhattan. It is a fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals and sweetened. Sweet vermouth adds depth and complexity to the cocktail, balancing out the strong flavors of the rye whiskey.
Angostura bitters are used to add a hint of bitterness and additional complexity to the True Manhattan. Bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from a combination of herbs, spices, and botanicals. In the True Manhattan, the bitters help to enhance the overall flavor profile of the cocktail.
Step-by-step instructions for making a True Manhattan cocktail
To make a True Manhattan cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ounces of rye whiskey
- 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
1. Fill a mixing glass or a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the glass.
3. Stir the ingredients together for about 30 seconds to mix and chill them.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Note: Some variations of the Manhattan cocktail may call for different types of whiskey or bitters. However, the True Manhattan recipe uses rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
Tips from Professional Chefs for Making a True Manhattan
When it comes to making the perfect Manhattan cocktail, professional chefs have a few tips to ensure a true and delicious result. First and foremost, using high-quality ingredients is key. Opt for a good quality rye whiskey, such as Michter’s or Rittenhouse, and a high-quality sweet vermouth like Carpano Antica or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino. These ingredients will elevate the flavors and ensure a well-balanced cocktail.
Another tip from chefs is to pay attention to the measurements and ratios. The classic Manhattan recipe calls for two parts whiskey, one part sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. However, some chefs recommend adjusting the ratio to suit personal preference. If you prefer a stronger and more whiskey-forward cocktail, you can increase the whiskey and reduce the vermouth slightly. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter and milder flavor, you can increase the vermouth and reduce the whiskey. The key is to find the right balance that suits your taste.
Finally, chefs suggest paying attention to the mixing and chilling process. Stirring the cocktail with ice for at least 30 seconds is the preferred method to properly combine the ingredients and ensure a well-chilled drink. Avoid shaking the cocktail, as it can introduce too much air and dilute the flavors. Once the cocktail is properly stirred, strain it into a chilled glass or over a large ice cube. Garnish with a cherry or twist of orange peel for added flavor and presentation. Following these tips from professional chefs will help you create a true and delicious Manhattan cocktail every time.
Reviews
The True Manhattan recipe is an absolute game-changer for any whiskey enthusiast. As someone who has tried numerous variations of this classic cocktail, I can confidently say that this version truly stands out. The combination of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters creates a perfectly balanced drink that is a delight to sip on.
What sets this recipe apart is the addition of Luxardo cherries and their syrup. These cherries add a unique depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness that complements the dryness of the rye whiskey and the bitterness of the bitters. It’s a small detail, but it makes a world of difference. The presentation of the drink is also noteworthy. Served in a chilled glass with a cherry garnish, it looks as good as it tastes.
I highly recommend trying the True Manhattan recipe to any whiskey lover. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or someone who enjoys a good drink every now and then, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s the perfect balance of flavors, and the addition of Luxardo cherries takes it to the next level. Cheers!
As someone who enjoys experimenting with different cocktail recipes, I was excited to try the True Manhattan recipe. I have always been a fan of classic cocktails, and the Manhattan is one of my favorites. This recipe did not disappoint!
The combination of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters created a perfectly balanced and flavorful drink. I appreciated the use of rye whiskey instead of bourbon, as it added a slightly spicier and more complex flavor profile. The sweet vermouth provided a smooth and slightly sweet undertone, while the bitters added a touch of bitterness that balanced out the sweetness. It was a harmonious combination of flavors that truly showcased the essence of a Manhattan.
What set this True Manhattan recipe apart from others I have tried was the inclusion of a Luxardo cherry garnish. The Luxardo cherry added a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that elevated the drink to another level. It was the perfect finishing touch to an already excellent cocktail.
The True Manhattan recipe is absolutely divine! As someone who loves a good cocktail, I can confidently say that this is one of the best Manhattans I have ever tasted. The combination of sweet vermouth, aromatic bitters, and smooth bourbon creates a perfect balance of flavors.
One of the things I enjoyed most about the True Manhattan was the richness of the bourbon. It added a depth of flavor that elevated the entire cocktail. The sweet vermouth added a touch of sweetness, while the bitters provided a hint of bitterness that balanced out the drink beautifully.
What truly impressed me about this recipe was the attention to detail. The True Manhattan is not just a simple mixture of ingredients, but a carefully crafted cocktail. The instructions for stirring the ingredients with ice until well chilled ensured that the flavors were well blended and the drink was perfectly chilled.
The True Manhattan is a sophisticated and elegant cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply relaxing at home, this drink is sure to impress. I highly recommend trying the True Manhattan recipe for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!
I recently tried the True Manhattan recipe and it was absolutely amazing! As a lover of classic cocktails, I was thrilled to find a recipe that stays true to the original Manhattan while adding a modern twist. The combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters creates a perfectly balanced and flavorful drink.
One of the things I loved about this recipe is that it uses high-quality ingredients. The bourbon has a rich and smooth flavor, while the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The addition of bitters really elevates the cocktail and gives it a nice depth of flavor.
Another aspect that sets True Manhattan apart is the use of Luxardo cherries as a garnish. These cherries are a step above the standard maraschino cherries and add a luxurious touch to the drink. Their natural sweetness and slight tartness perfectly complement the flavors of the cocktail.
The True Manhattan is a sophisticated and elegant cocktail that is perfect for special occasions or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home. I highly recommend trying this recipe if you’re a fan of classic cocktails and looking to elevate your at-home bartending skills.
