The Manhattan cocktail is a timeless classic that exudes sophistication and elegance. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced, spirit-forward cocktail. With its rich history and simple yet refined ingredients, the Manhattan is a staple in any cocktail enthusiast's repertoire.
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, you might find that rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are not always common household items. Rye whiskey provides a distinct, spicy flavor that sets it apart from other whiskeys. Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine infused with various botanicals, adding depth and complexity to the drink. Both can be found in the liquor section of most supermarkets or specialty stores.

Ingredients for 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, offering a sweet and aromatic profile.
Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, used to add complexity and balance to cocktails.
Maraschino cherry: A preserved, sweet cherry used as a garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Technique Tip for This Cocktail
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, ensure that you use a mixing glass and not a shaker. Stirring the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters with ice will properly chill the drink without diluting it too much, preserving the integrity of the flavors.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rye whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon offers a slightly sweeter and smoother profile, which can complement the other ingredients in the cocktail.
sweet vermouth - Substitute with gluten-free sweet vermouth: Ensure the vermouth is labeled gluten-free to avoid any gluten contamination.
angostura bitters - Substitute with gluten-free bitters: Some bitters may contain gluten, so opt for a brand that specifically states it is gluten-free.
maraschino cherry - Substitute with gluten-free maraschino cherry: Verify that the maraschino cherries are gluten-free, as some brands may use additives containing gluten.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How to Store or Freeze This Cocktail
- To keep your Manhattan cocktail fresh, store it in an airtight container. A glass bottle with a tight seal works best.
- Place the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within a few days. This will maintain the flavors and chill the drink.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the cocktail. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the cocktail in the refrigerator. This gradual thawing process helps preserve the integrity of the flavors.
- If you prefer your Manhattan served immediately after thawing, give it a good stir or shake to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.
- Always garnish with a fresh maraschino cherry just before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the Manhattan cocktail into a heat-resistant glass or container.
- Place the container in a bowl of warm water, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the container to avoid dilution.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cocktail reaches your desired temperature.
- Alternatively, use a sous-vide machine set to a low temperature (around 120°F) to gently warm the cocktail without altering its flavor profile.
- For a quick method, microwave the cocktail in short bursts of 5-10 seconds, stirring in between to evenly distribute the heat.
- Always taste before serving to ensure the cocktail is at the perfect temperature and hasn't lost its balance of flavors.
Essential Tools for Crafting This Cocktail
Mixing glass: A sturdy glass container used to combine and chill the ingredients by stirring with ice.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon designed for stirring cocktails, ensuring the ingredients are well-mixed and chilled.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately measure the rye whiskey and sweet vermouth.
Strainer: A tool placed over the mixing glass to strain the chilled cocktail into the serving glass, keeping the ice out.
Martini glass: A classic, stemmed glass used to serve the Manhattan cocktail, keeping it chilled and elegant.
Ice: Essential for chilling the cocktail and diluting it slightly to balance the flavors.
Maraschino cherry: A sweet, preserved cherry used as a garnish to add a touch of color and flavor to the cocktail.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Batch your ingredients: Measure out the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters in advance and store them in small containers.
Use a mixing pitcher: Instead of a mixing glass, use a larger pitcher to mix multiple servings at once.
Pre-chill your glassware: Keep your martini glasses in the freezer so they are always ready to use.
Quick garnish prep: Have a jar of maraschino cherries open and ready for garnishing.
Efficient stirring: Use a long-handled bar spoon to stir quickly and effectively.

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 Maraschino Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
- 2. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- 3. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
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