A Brief History of the Manhattan
The exact origins of the Manhattan cocktail are shrouded in alluring legends and colourful anecdotes. One popular story attributes the creation of the Manhattan to Dr. Iain Marshall, who allegedly concocted the drink for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill (Winston Churchill’s mother) at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the 1870s. Regardless of its true beginnings, the Manhattan quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in the world of cocktails.
The Manhattan Recipe
Creating a classic Manhattan at home is simpler than you might think. Here's what you need:
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Rye Whiskey or Bourbon
- 30 ml Sweet Vermouth
- 2-3 dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
1. Chill Your Glass: Start by chilling a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker, combine the rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Add ice to the mixing glass, then stir (don’t shake!) with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds. Stirring will blend the ingredients and provide the desired dilution from the melting ice.
3. Strain: Empty the ice water from your chilled glass. Using a strainer, pour the mixed ingredients from the shaker or mixing glass into the chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish and Serve: Drop a Maraschino cherry into the glass or garnish with a twist of orange peel for a burst of citrus aroma. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Manhattan:
1. Quality Ingredients: Use quality rye whiskey or bourbon and a reputable sweet vermouth for the best results.
2. Fresh Ice: Always use fresh, clean ice to avoid any unwanted flavors or aromas.
3. Balance: Feel free to adjust the ratios to your liking. Some may prefer a slightly sweeter Manhattan and can add a bit more vermouth, while others might opt for a drier, whiskey-forward profile.
Variations to Explore
The Manhattan is a versatile cocktail, and its recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Here are a few classic variations:
- Perfect Manhattan: Use equal parts sweet vermouth and dry vermouth instead of all sweet vermouth.
- Rob Roy: Substitute the rye whiskey or bourbon with Scotch whisky for a unique twist.
- Black Manhattan: Replace sweet vermouth with averna amaro to give the drink a richer, herbal profile.
Conclusion
The Manhattan is more than just a cocktail; it’s a piece of history, an expression of timeless elegance, and a celebration of the fine art of mixology. By mastering the classic recipe, you can bring a touch of sophistication and tradition to any gathering. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, the Manhattan is a timeless drink that will never go out of style.
So, gather your ingredients, chill your glass, and raise a toast to one of the most enduring cocktails of all time. Cheers!