Introduction
Are you a fan of whiskey-based cocktails? If so, you’ve probably heard of the Manhattan drink – a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. This sophisticated cocktail is popular among both casual drinkers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will provide a beginner’s guide to everything you need to know about the Manhattan drink– including its history, modern variations, traditional recipe, how to order, and how to make it at home.
Everything You Need to Know About the Manhattan Drink: A Beginner’s Guide
The Manhattan drink is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, vermouth, bitters, and a cherry for garnish. The drink is typically served chilled in a martini glass or over ice in an old-fashioned glass. There are three variations of a Manhattan drink: sweet, dry, and perfect. A sweet Manhattan uses sweet vermouth, a dry Manhattan uses dry vermouth, and the perfect Manhattan uses equal parts of both.
If you decide to order a Manhattan drink at a bar, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to specify which variation you prefer – sweet, dry, or perfect. Secondly, you’ll want to specify the type of whiskey you prefer as well. Some popular options include rye, bourbon, or Canadian whisky. Lastly, it’s important to note that the Manhattan drink is typically served up, meaning chilled in a glass without ice, but you can also order it on the rocks if you prefer.
If you’d like to make a Manhattan drink at home, start with choosing your preferred whiskey and vermouth. Then, simply mix equal parts of both with a dash or two of bitters and strain the mixture into a chilled glass. Add a cherry for garnish if desired.
The History Behind the Manhattan: A Classic Cocktail that Stands the Test of Time
The Manhattan drink was first made in the late 1800s in New York City. It’s believed that the drink was created at a bar called The Manhattan Club, where it quickly gained popularity among members of high society. One legend even suggests that the drink was created for a party hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, Winston Churchill’s mother.
Over the years, the Manhattan drink has become a cultural icon and a beloved cocktail in the United States and beyond. Entrepreneurs, politicians, and celebrities alike have all enjoyed a Manhattan drink at some point in history. For example, John D. Rockefeller was known to enjoy a Manhattan after work, while author Ernest Hemingway preferred his with a twist of lemon.
A Modern Twist on a Classic: Upgrading the Manhattan for a New Generation
While the classic Manhattan drink remains a staple, today’s mixologists have been reinventing and innovating the classic recipe to create new variations that cater to modern tastes. Some contemporary adaptations and variations of the Manhattan include smoked Manhattan, coffee-infused Manhattan, and seasonal fruit-infused Manhattan. The use of different types of whiskey, from rye to bourbon, can also lend richness and flavor to the drink. Mixologists have become wizards, creating personalized and unique renditions of this already beloved cocktail.
Breaking Down the Perfect Manhattan Recipe: Tips from Expert Mixologists
Mixing the perfect Manhattan drink is a skill that anyone can learn with the right ingredients and a little bit of practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide, provided by mixologists, to make the perfect Manhattan:
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces of rye whiskey
– 1 ounce sweet vermouth (or preferred vermouth variation)
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– A Luxardo cherry for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Chill your martini glass by filling it with ice and water, and then setting it aside.
2. Fill your cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Stir for 15 to 20 seconds.
4. Dump the ice and water from your martini glass.
5. Strain the drink into the martini glass.
6. Add a Luxardo cherry for garnish, if desired.
Expert mixologists recommend varying the whiskey and vermouth to find the best combination for your taste. You can also experiment with the type of bitters, or increase the amount of bitters to give the drink a richer flavor.
Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned: Which Is the Superior Whiskey-Based Cocktail?
The Manhattan drink and the Old Fashioned are both classic whiskey-based cocktails, so what sets them apart? While both drinks share the same basic ingredients, the preparation and proportions vary. The Old Fashioned emphasizes whiskey and sugar, without additional flavors that usually come with vermouth or bitters. This makes it a sweeter, simpler drink compared to the Manhattan. The Manhattan, on the other hand, uses vermouth to add herbaceousness and depth of flavor, and the addition of bitters provides balance.
Both drinks are suitable for different occasions or palates. A Manhattan may be better suited for a special night out, a fancy dinner, or for those looking for a richer and more complex flavor profile. The Old Fashioned may be better suited for those who enjoy a lighter, sweeter spirit and don’t want to fuss with a cocktail that has too many bells and whistles.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a sophisticated and classic cocktail, Manhattan drink is a perfect option. Whether you’re new to the cocktail scene or a seasoned drinker, there’s a Manhattan variation that will suit your palate. With a little bit of practice, you can even master the recipe and make the perfect Manhattan drink at home.