Classic Cocktails: How to Make a Manhattan

I thought I would start a little recurring series here all about cocktails. I am a huge fan of a fancy cocktail but when I first started making them (and ordering them for that matter) I was totally intimidated. This little video series hopefully will demystify some of the most classic cocktails. 

First up in this series is a Manhattan - in honor of my trip to NYC! 

A Manhattan is super simple, it is whiskey, vermouth and bitters. I like using rye whiskey because that is my preference but you could use any type of whiskey or bourbon of your choosing. Also make sure to garnish with a cherry  - you can use a marachino cherry but luxardo cherries are so much better.  Also I am using a coup glass because I like the way it looks but you can use any small glass you want - even if you don't have a coup glass the cocktail will taste delicious. 

Here is how you make it: 

Manhattan Cocktail

  • 2 oz. rye whiskey
  • 1 oz. sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
  • orange peel
  • garnish with luxardo cherry

Add whiskey, vermouth and bitters to a glass. Top with ice. Stir well. 

Rub the rim of a coupe glass with the orange rind. Pour manhattan cocktail into glass and garnish with cherries. 

Makes 1 cocktail. 

Cocktails, What's NewAmanda Fredericksonclassic cocktails, manhattanComment