Manhattan
It’s winter in Chicago and it’s time for a Manhattan!
Servings
1
Ready In:
5 minutes
Inroduction
About this Recipe
A Manhattan is probably one of the most famous cocktails globally—and one I have learned to love over the years.
My friends would order a Manhattan as a pre- or post-dinner drink, and, like a curious raccoon drawn to shiny objects, I’d always ask for a little taste. At first, I didn’t get the appeal—so strong, so fiery, like a liquid handshake from someone with something to prove. But the more I sipped (purely for research purposes, of course), the more I started to appreciate its smooth, warming charm. Now, it’s my weekend indulgence in the cold winter months, best enjoyed while curled up under a blanket the size of a small country. As for what I’m watching? I won’t admit to the ridiculous movies in my queue, but let’s just say everything seems Oscar-worthy with a Manhattan in hand! 🍸🎬
Ingredients
- 2Â parts whiskey
- 1 part sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: maraschino cherry  – while pricey, Luxardo are the best!
Similar to many classic cocktails, the Manhattan has more origin stories than a superhero franchise. The most popular tale credits Iain Marshall, who supposedly crafted the drink for a swanky dinner hosted by none other than Winston Churchill’s mother in honor of presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden. Do we know for sure if this is true? Not really. But I do appreciate the British component—everything sounds a bit more sophisticated with a British tie-in, don’t you think? Even if the real story is lost to history (or a few too many Manhattans), I like to imagine Lady Churchill giving it a dignified nod of approval before politely passing it to the left.
Step by Step Instructions
- Add the whisky, sweet vermouth and both bitters to a mixing glass with ice, and stir until well-chilled
- If you like it a little on the sweet side, add a tiny drop of juice from the cherries
- Strain into a chilled coupe
- Garnish with a Maraschino cherry
