Sipping a Manhattan reveals a complicated flavor profile that’s actually not complicated to craft. In fact, only four ingredients (plus ice) are required. These ingredients are whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), sweet red vermouth, Angostura bitters and maraschino cherries.
Ingredient quantities are detailed in the printable recipe card below.
Mixologists have a choice between using rye whiskey or bourbon when crafting a Manhattan. Since we prefer bourbon’s sweeter flavor over rye’s more spiciness in this cocktail, our recipe features bourbon. You may or may not agree with this choice… and that’s okay.
Discover our favorite bourbon cocktails.
Since bourbon is the star ingredient in this drink, using the right bourbon is key. We like to use moderately-priced Four Roses bourbon in our recipe. This Kentucky straight bourbon has a relatively low (40%) ABV and a pleasant flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. Accordingly, it plays well with the other ingredients and doesn’t overpower the drink.
To us, using Angostura bitters is a must for its specific spicy, herbaceous flavors. Actually, it’s a must in lots of cocktail recipes.
We use Italy’s classic Martini Rosso in this recipe. Other Italian sweet vermouth producers include Carpano, Cocchi and Contratto.
Discover our favorite sweet vermouth cocktails.
We mentioned above that we waited to craft a Manhattan at home until we had the right cherries. After Mindi’s mini-meltdown, we finally procured them after an email from our favorite Lisbon liquor store alerted us to their arrival.
When it comes to maraschinos, Luxardo cherries are the gold standard. Imported from Italy, these Marasca cherries are grown in the Veneto region and are seeped in a luxurious, sweet, rich syrup.
While we were okay to garnish our Pink Lady cocktail with neon red grocery store maraschino cherries, we held out on crafting Manhattans until we had these black beauties. Though Luxardo cherries are literally four times the price, they’re totally worth it.
