A cocktail named after the concrete jungle does seem dull, but this simple yet elegant drink is packed with spicy sweetness, deep flavours and a history dating back centuries ago.

 


The History of the Manhattan

 

Although there isn’t an official version of the Manhattan’s history, most sources trace the cocktail’s history to William F. Mulhall, a respected bartender working at Hoffman House in New York City. Despite this, Mulhall credited the Manhattan to another bartender named Black, who owned a place ten doors down.

 


What does a Manhattan taste like?

The Manhattan comes with a strong, boozy taste and some bitterness. Herbal notes in the concoction come from sweet vermouth. Others use bourbon for a slightly sweeter experience, while using rye would paint a drier and spicier picture. Drunk either during an evening date or a casual drinks night with friends, there’s no better time to be sipping on this timeless classic.

 

 

Classic Manhattan Recipe

Ingredients

50 ml rye whiskey

20 ml sweet red vermouth

1 dash Angostura bitters

Maraschino cherry (For garnish)

 

 

How-to

  1. Add the ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice
  2. Stir, then strain into a cocktail glass
  3. Garnish with a cherry and serve

 



Variations

Although timeless, the Manhattan is no stranger to different variations.

 

Dry Manhattan: Uses a dash of dry vermouth and garnish with a lemon twist.

 

Perfect Manhattan: Uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, garnished with a lemon twist.

 

Rob Roy (aka Scotch Manhattan): This variation calls for Scotch whisky.

 

Metropolitan (aka Brandy Manhattan): This cocktail replaces the whiskey with brandy.

 

Southern Comfort Manhattan: Uses Southern Comfort instead of whiskey to get a hint of peach.

 


Conclusion

 

Taste what the city has to offer and purchase rye whisky, red vermouth and Angostura bitters at Cellarbration. Orders $99 and above are entitled to FREE delivery. With various Cellarbration outlets located in Singapore, purchasing your favourite beers, wines, whisky and other spirits has never been easier.