Manhattan cocktail

What is a manhattan?

No one is quite sure who invented the manhattan – it emerged in the late 19th century in New York, or possibly New Orleans – but it’s a classic cocktail that doesn’t pull punches, with spicy rye whisky (use bourbon for a more mellow result), fruity sweet vermouth and bitters coming together in a dark, rich, intense drink. Perfect for fireside drinking.

Ingredients

You can use bourbon whisky here but we prefer drier, spicier rye whisky to balance the sweetness of the vermouth. We’ve tried and tested the best rye whiskies here.

Glassware

As a short cocktail served without ice this works best served in a chilled coupe glass, so you can grip the stem without warming the drink in your hands.

Bar hacks and garnishes

Vermouth is the classic ingredient here but try swapping half of the vermouth with coffee liqueur for a coffee-tinged edge to the drink. We also love replacing the sweet vermouth with a little dry vermouth and pedro ximenez sherry for a raisiny twist – try our PX manhattan here.

Take your skills to the next level with this handy cocktail kit from the olive shop. Completed with easy-to-use cobbler shaker, double jigger, fine mesh strainer and bar spoon, it has everything you need to make next-level drinks at home. Buy here.

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe