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Perfect Manhattan Cocktail

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A classic Manhattan cocktail recipe that balances bold rye whiskey with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, stirred to silky perfection and garnished with a maraschino cherry for timeless sophistication.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz rye whiskey (e.g., Bulleit or Rittenhouse)
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth (e.g., Carpano Antica Formula)
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
  • Ice (large cubes preferred)

Instructions

  1. Chill your coupe or rocks glass in the freezer for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Fill a mixing glass halfway with fresh, large ice cubes.
  3. Measure and pour 2 oz rye whiskey and 1 oz sweet vermouth into the mixing glass. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
  4. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute without clouding the drink.
  5. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass, avoiding ice shards.
  6. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Notes

Use large ice cubes to chill without over-diluting. Stir gently instead of shaking to keep the cocktail clear and silky. Use fresh vermouth refrigerated and consumed within a month for best flavor. Adjust bitters to taste. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or substitute with a lemon twist or Luxardo cherry for variation. Pre-mix whiskey and vermouth for up to 24 hours but add bitters and garnish just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Manhattan cocktail, rye whiskey cocktail, classic cocktail, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, maraschino cherry, stirred cocktail