Do you stir a Manhattan or do you shake it? It’s a question that’s been debated for decades among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Some swear by stirring, claiming that it produces a smoother and more elegant drink. Others argue that shaking is the only way to unlock the flavors and aromas of the cocktail’s ingredients. So, which is the right way? The truth is, it depends on who you ask.
For those unfamiliar with the classic cocktail, a Manhattan is made with whiskey (typically rye or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and bitters. It’s a bold and flavorful drink that’s become a staple in bars and restaurants around the world. But when it comes to technique, bartenders have been divided for years. Some believe that stirring is the way to go, as it allows the ingredients to blend together without introducing any unwanted air into the drink. Others argue that shaking is necessary to fully integrate the ingredients and create a more complex flavor profile.
Despite the ongoing debate, there are advantages and drawbacks to each method. For example, stirring is generally considered better for drinks that are all spirit-based, as shaking can dilute the drink too much. On the other hand, shaking can be beneficial for drinks that include citrus or egg whites, as it can help emulsify those ingredients and create a frothy texture. Ultimately, the decision to stir or shake a Manhattan (or any cocktail, for that matter) comes down to personal preference and the desired flavor profile.
Preparing a Manhattan cocktail
A Manhattan cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the late 1800s. It consists of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, and is typically served in a chilled glass. If you’re looking to make a perfect Manhattan, here are a few tips to help you prepare this iconic cocktail:
- Choose your whiskey: The most common whiskey used for a Manhattan is rye, but bourbon can also be used. The key is to choose a whiskey that is smooth, flavorful, and well-balanced.
- Select your vermouth: Sweet vermouth is a vital component of the Manhattan. It adds a sweet and slightly fruity flavor that balances the whiskey. Use a high-quality, premium sweet vermouth for the best results.
- Measure your ingredients: The key to a perfect Manhattan is precise measurements. Use a jigger or measuring cup to ensure that you add the correct amount of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters.
Once you have your ingredients, here’s how to put it all together:
1. Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 2 oz. of your chosen whiskey and 1 oz. of sweet vermouth.
3. Add a dash or two of bitters, depending on how strong you like the flavor.
4. Stir well for about 20-30 seconds to chill the drink and allow the flavors to meld.
| Ingredients: | Amount: |
|---|---|
| Whiskey | 2 oz. |
| Sweet Vermouth | 1 oz. |
| Bitters | Dash or two |
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. A coupe or martini glass is the traditional vessel for a Manhattan.
6. Optionally, garnish the drink with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel.
With these tips and techniques, you can prepare a perfect Manhattan cocktail that will impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseur.
Understanding the ingredients of a Manhattan cocktail
One of the most iconic cocktails in the world, the Manhattan is a classic that every bartender worth their salt should know how to make. While the cocktail may seem simple at first glance, it’s actually a delicate balance of different ingredients that come together to create a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the different ingredients in a traditional Manhattan:
- Bourbon or Rye whiskey: This is the foundation of a good Manhattan. Typically, bartenders will use either bourbon or rye whiskey, depending on their personal preference. Bourbon tends to be a bit sweeter and smoother, while rye whiskey has a spicier, more complex flavor profile.
- Sweet vermouth: Vermouth is a fortified wine that adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the drink. In a Manhattan, bartenders typically use sweet vermouth, which has a slightly sweeter flavor profile than dry vermouth. Look for a high-quality vermouth that will complement the other flavors in the cocktail.
- Bitters: Bitters are a crucial ingredient in a good Manhattan. They add depth and complexity to the drink, cutting through the sweetness of the vermouth and whiskey. Angostura bitters are the most commonly used type of bitters in Manhattans, but other types of bitters can also work well.
- Garnish: A classic Manhattan is typically garnished with a cherry. This adds a pop of color and sweetness to the drink, and also helps to balance out the bitterness of the bitters. Some bartenders also like to add a twist of lemon or orange peel for an extra layer of flavor.
When it comes to making a Manhattan, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the proportions of each ingredient. Depending on your personal taste preferences, you may want to experiment with using different types of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters to create your perfect Manhattan.
For those who are interested in creating a truly exceptional Manhattan, some bartenders recommend aging the cocktail in a barrel for a few weeks or even months. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a smoother, more complex drink. However, this is not necessary to enjoy a delicious Manhattan – the classic cocktail is delicious as-is.
The perfect Manhattan ratios
Now that we’ve covered the individual ingredients in a Manhattan, it’s time to talk about how to put them together. Here’s the classic recipe for a Manhattan:
| Ingredient | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Bourbon or rye whiskey | 2 ounces |
| Sweet vermouth | 1 ounce |
| Angostura bitters | 2 dashes |
| Cherry | For garnish |
These ratios create a perfectly balanced Manhattan with a rich, complex flavor. Of course, depending on your personal taste preferences, you may want to adjust the ratios slightly. Some people prefer a Manhattan with a bit more vermouth, while others prefer a stiffer drink with more whiskey and fewer bitters. The beauty of the Manhattan is that it’s a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit your individual taste.
Proper Glassware for a Manhattan Cocktail
Choosing the right glassware is crucial to serving a perfect Manhattan cocktail. The right glassware enhances the overall drinking experience by amplifying the aroma and taste of the cocktail. Here are a few options for glassware to serve a Manhattan:
- The Classic Cocktail Glass – This glass tapers in towards the top and has a wide mouth. It is the go-to choice for most cocktails, including a Manhattan. With a capacity of 4-6 oz, this glass is perfect for serving a single drink.
- The Rocks Glass – A.k.a the Old Fashioned glass. This classic tumbler is short and wide and perfect for serving a Manhattan on the rocks. The wide mouth and thick base make it comfortable to hold and helps to keep the drink chilled without the ice watering it down. With a capacity of 8-10 oz, it is larger than the classic cocktail glass and can also help to reduce spillage.
- The Coupe Glass – This glass is similar to the classic cocktail glass but has a rounder, wider bowl with a shorter stem. It was popular during the 1920s and 1930s and is making a comeback in modern times. The Coupe glass is perfect for serving a Manhattan up, without ice.
No matter which glassware you choose, always ensure that it is clean and dry before pouring the cocktail. This helps to prevent contamination and also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation of the drink.
Another aspect to consider when serving a Manhattan is the garnish. The garnish adds visual appeal to the drink and also complements the flavors of the cocktail. A classic cherry or twist of orange peel is commonly used as a garnish for a Manhattan. However, if you want to be more creative, you can use dehydrated fruit, edible flowers, or even bacon skewers as garnishes.
| Glassware | Features | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cocktail Glass | Tapers towards the top; wide mouth | Serving a single Manhattan cocktail |
| The Rocks/Old Fashioned Glass | Short, wide, and comfortable to hold; thick base | Serving a Manhattan on the rocks |
| Coupe Glass | Round and wide bowl with a shorter stem | Serving a Manhattan up, without ice |
Choosing glassware is a critical aspect of the overall drinking experience, with the right glassware enhancing the aroma and taste of a cocktail. The classic cocktail glass, rocks glass, and Coupe glass are all suitable options for serving a perfect Manhattan. However, it’s essential to ensure that the glassware is clean and dry before pouring the cocktail. Don’t forget the garnish – it adds to the overall presentation and flavors of the drink.
Variations of the Manhattan cocktail
If you’re a fan of the classic Manhattan cocktail, you’ll love these variations that add a new twist to the timeless drink. Here are four different variations that you can try:
- The Perfect Manhattan: This variation uses equal parts sweet vermouth and dry vermouth, along with whiskey and bitters, to create a balanced and flavorful cocktail.
- Blood and Sand: This unique variation uses Scotch instead of whiskey and includes orange juice and cherry liqueur in the mix.
- Black Manhattan: In this version, Averna replaces the traditional sweet vermouth, adding a bold and bitter flavor to the mix.
- Smoky Manhattan: For a smokier twist, try using a smoky Scotch or mezcal in place of the whiskey in the classic recipe.
Experimenting with different variations of the Manhattan can be a great way to expand your cocktail horizons and try new flavors. If you’re planning on hosting a party or get-together, consider setting up a mini-bar and letting your guests try out different variations of the classic drink.
If you’re curious about the differences between the variations, check out the table below:
| Cocktail | Whiskey | Vermouth | Bitters | Other Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Manhattan | Rye whiskey | Sweet vermouth | Angostura bitters | N/A |
| The Perfect Manhattan | Rye whiskey | Equal parts sweet and dry vermouth | Angostura bitters | N/A |
| Blood and Sand | Scotch | Sweet vermouth | Orange juice and cherry liqueur | N/A |
| Black Manhattan | Rye whiskey | Averna liqueur | Angostura bitters | N/A |
| Smoky Manhattan | Smoky Scotch or mezcal | Sweet vermouth | Angostura bitters | N/A |
Whether you prefer the classic recipe or a variation, one thing is for sure: the Manhattan cocktail is a timeless drink that continues to be enjoyed by many cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Popular Garnishes for a Manhattan Cocktail
If you’re a lover of this classic whiskey cocktail, then you already know that the perfect Manhattan requires a blend of sweet, bitter, and boozy flavors. But what about the finishing touches—those little garnishes that help elevate the cocktail to new heights? Here are a few popular garnishes for a Manhattan cocktail that are easy to prepare and will add a sophisticated touch to your drink:
- Brandied cherries: These maraschino cherries soaked in brandy are the perfect finishing touch to a Manhattan cocktail. They add a sweet, boozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky undertones of the whiskey.
- Lemon twist: For a lighter, citrusy finish, twist a sliver of lemon peel over the drink before garnishing. This will add a pop of brightness to the drink and help to balance out the bitterness of the other flavors.
- Orange twist: Similar to the lemon twist, an orange twist adds a touch of fresh citrus to your cocktail, but with a sweeter, more nuanced flavor profile. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp kitchen knife to create a sliver of orange peel and twist it over the drink before adding it to the glass.
If you want to get more creative, there are a few other garnishes you may want to consider:
- Candied ginger: This sweet and spicy confection is a great way to add a little extra flavor to your cocktail. It pairs particularly well with rye whiskey and can help to bring out some of the more nuanced flavors of the drink.
- Cinnamon stick: This aromatic spice is a great way to add a subtle layer of flavor to your Manhattan cocktail. Simply add a small cinnamon stick to the drink before serving and let it infuse the drink with its warming flavor.
A Chart of Popular Garnishes for a Manhattan Cocktail
| Garnish | Flavor Profile | Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Brandied cherries | Sweet, boozy | Rye whiskey, bourbon |
| Lemon twist | Light, citrusy | Bourbon, blended whiskey |
| Orange twist | Sweet, citrusy | Rye whiskey, blended whiskey |
| Candied ginger | Sweet, spicy | Rye whiskey |
| Cinnamon stick | Aromatic, warming | Bourbon, rye whiskey |
Whether you go classic with brandied cherries or get a little more creative with some candied ginger, the right garnish can really make a difference in your Manhattan cocktail. So next time you mix up a batch, don’t forget to add a little extra flair with the perfect garnish.
Pairing food with a Manhattan cocktail
Pairing food with a Manhattan cocktail can elevate the flavors and enhance the overall experience. The key to pairing food with a Manhattan lies in complementing or contrasting the flavors in the cocktail. Here are some tips on how to pair food with your favorite Manhattan:
- Complementing flavors: Pairing foods that share similar flavors with the cocktail can create a harmonious blend of tastes. A Classic Manhattan, made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, pairs well with bold flavors such as aged cheese, spicy cured meat, and nutty snacks.
- Contrasting flavors: Pairing foods that contrast the flavors in the cocktail can create a unique taste experience. For example, a Manhattan made with bourbon, which has a slightly sweeter profile than rye whiskey, can be paired with salty snacks, such as olives or salted nuts, which can help to cut through the sweetness of the bourbon.
- Consider the garnish: The garnish in a Manhattan, whether it’s a cherry or an orange peel, can also influence food pairing decisions. For instance, cherries can be paired with desserts, such as chocolate or cheesecake, while the citrus notes in an orange peel can be paired with seafood dishes or salads.
Here’s a table that summarizes the pairing suggestions:
| Manhattan Ingredient | Complementary Food Pairings | Contrasting Food Pairings | Garnish Pairings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rye Whiskey | Aged Cheese, Spicy Cured Meat, Nuts | Smoked Fish, Pickles, Radishes | Cherries |
| Bourbon Whiskey | Barbecue, Grilled Meat, Buttered Popcorn | Salted Nuts, Olives, Brie Cheese | Orange Peel |
| Sweet Vermouth | Dark Chocolate, Dried Fruit, Roasted Nuts | Salty Snacks, Fried Foods, Oysters | Cherries, Orange Peel |
Remember that pairing food with a Manhattan is all about experimentation and finding what tastes best to you. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to try something new!
The Origins and History of the Manhattan Cocktail
A Manhattan Cocktail is a classic cocktail that is believed to have been initially created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the late 1800s. Its exact origins, however, remain a mystery and have been the subject of much debate over the years.
According to one popular tale, the cocktail was first crafted for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill (Winston Churchill’s mother) at the Manhattan Club in honor of presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden. Dr. Iain Marshall, a club bartender, developed the drink, and it was an instant hit. It was even named the “Manhattan” after the club where it was first served.
Despite its unclear origins, the Manhattan quickly became a beloved drink, especially among the elite and business class. By the turn of the century, it had become one of the most frequently ordered cocktails in America and remains popular to this day.
- The first written recipe for the Manhattan Cocktail appeared in O.H. Byron’s 1884 book, The Modern Bartender.
- Some variations of the Manhattan recipe call for bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, while others use dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters.
- The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has influenced many other drinks, including the Brooklyn, the Greenpoint, and the Red Hook.
During prohibition, Manhattan’s popularity only increased, as people flocked to speakeasies for illegal drinks. According to legend, the cocktail was even mixed in tea cups to avoid detection by the police.
Today, the Manhattan has become a staple in cocktail bars worldwide. It is enjoyed both straight up, and on the rocks, with traditional garnishes such as Luxardo cherries and orange twists.
| Ingredients | Measurements |
|---|---|
| Rye whiskey or bourbon | 2 ounces |
| Sweet vermouth | 1 oz |
| Angostura bitters | 2 dashes |
| Luxardo cherries | Garnish |
| Orange twist | Garnish |
Whether you’re savoring a Manhattan at a high-end cocktail bar or mixing one up at home for friends, there’s no denying the drink’s timeless appeal and rich history.
Do You Stir a Manhattan?
1. Should you stir or shake a Manhattan?
It is a common misconception that a Manhattan should be shaken. However, a true Manhattan should be stirred over ice to chill and dilute the spirits.
2. What ingredients are needed to make a Manhattan?
A Manhattan is made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Some variations may include a cherry or orange peel garnish.
3. How long should you stir a Manhattan?
Traditionally, a Manhattan should be stirred for about 30 seconds to properly dilute the ingredients and chill the cocktail.
4. Is it necessary to use a specific type of whiskey in a Manhattan?
While rye whiskey is the traditional choice for a Manhattan, bourbon or Canadian whiskey can also be used as a substitution.
5. Can a Manhattan be served straight up?
Yes, a Manhattan can be served straight up, which means without ice. This is a great option for those who prefer a more concentrated cocktail.
6. Is it okay to use dry vermouth in a Manhattan?
While dry vermouth can be used in a Manhattan, it will result in a much different flavor profile than a traditional Manhattan made with sweet vermouth.
7. Can a Manhattan be made as a batch cocktail for a group?
Yes, a large batch of Manhattan can be made in advance for a group. However, it is important to stir the cocktail with ice right before serving to properly dilute and chill the ingredients.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the traditional way to make a Manhattan. Remember, always stir the cocktail to achieve the perfect dilution and don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of whiskey and garnishes. Cheers and come back soon for more cocktail knowledge!