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
- Add the ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice
- Stir, then strain into a cocktail glass
- 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.