Manhattan Cocktail

Originating from New York City in the late 19th century, the Manhattan Cocktail stands as one of the true classics of the cocktail world. Legend has it that the Manhattan Cocktail was crafted at the Manhattan Club for a banquet hosted by Jennie Jerome, Winston Churchill’s mother. Its sophisticated blend of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters has made the Manhattan Cocktail a staple in bars across the globe.

Ingredients:

• 60 ml (2 oz) rye whiskey or bourbon (rye is traditional, but bourbon offers a sweeter profile)
• 30 ml (1 oz) sweet red vermouth
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Maraschino cherry or orange twist for garnish
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Glass Preparation: Begin by chilling a cocktail glass. You can do this by filling it with ice and water while you gather your ingredients, then discarding the contents just before pouring the cocktail.
2. Mixing: In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Proper measurement is essential to maintain the cocktail’s balance.
3. Stirring: Fill the mixing glass with ice and, using a bar spoon, stir the mixture for about 30 seconds. Stirring, rather than shaking, ensures a silky texture and prevents the cocktail from clouding.
4. Serving: Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnishing: Garnish with a maraschino cherry or, for a more aromatic touch, an orange twist. If opting for the twist, ensure you express it over the cocktail to release the essential oils before placing it in the glass.

Expert Bartender Tips:

• The choice of whiskey can drastically alter the Manhattan’s flavor profile. Bourbon will give a sweeter, smoother profile, while rye will introduce spiciness and a certain dryness.
• When you rent a bartender for a party in Miami, they can guide you on the best whiskey choices based on your guests’ preferences and the desired flavor profile for your event.
• Always opt for a high-quality vermouth, as it’s a crucial component of the cocktail.
• Some bartenders choose to experiment with different bitters to give a unique twist to the classic Manhattan.
• The whiskey to vermouth ratio can be adjusted based on personal preference. Some prefer a 2:1 ratio, while others opt for a bolder 4:1.

Enjoy your Manhattan in a relaxed setting, perhaps with some soft jazz playing in the background, to truly relive the golden age of cocktails. Cheers!

Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing the Perfect Manhattan

1. Gather Your Ingredients:
   • 60 ml (2 oz) rye whiskey or bourbon
   • 30 ml (1 oz) sweet red vermouth
   • 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
   • Maraschino cherry or orange twist for garnish
   • Ice
2. Glass Preparation: Chill a cocktail glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice and water. Discard the contents just before pouring the cocktail.
3. Mixing: In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Ensure accurate measurement for a balanced cocktail.
4. Stirring: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture for about 30 seconds using a bar spoon. This method ensures a silky texture without clouding the cocktail.
5. Serving: Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass.
6. Garnishing: Add a maraschino cherry or an orange twist. If using the twist, express it over the cocktail to release the essential oils.

Contemporary Interpretations by Renowned Mixologists

• Smoked Manhattan: Some mixologists introduce a smoky flavor by using a smoking gun with wood chips to infuse the cocktail.
• Manhattan on the Rocks: While traditionally served up, some modern bartenders serve the Manhattan over a large ice cube, allowing for a slower dilution.
• Spiced Manhattan: Incorporate spiced syrups or infuse the whiskey with ingredients like cinnamon or star anise for a unique twist.

Glassware and Presentation: Serving the Manhattan in Style

• Traditional Glassware: The classic choice is a chilled coupe or martini glass, which showcases the cocktail’s deep amber hue.
• Modern Glassware: Some bartender Miami opt for a rocks glass, especially when serving the cocktail over ice.
• Presentation: Elevate the presentation by using a crystal glass, adding a gold-rim, or incorporating unique garnishes like brandied cherries or a flamed orange twist.

Expert Tips: Elevating Your Manhattan Mixing Skills

• Quality Matters: Always use high-quality ingredients. The choice of whiskey and vermouth can significantly influence the cocktail’s flavor profile.
• Stir, Don’t Shake: Stirring prevents the cocktail from becoming cloudy and ensures a smoother texture.
• Experiment with Bitters: While Angostura is traditional, experimenting with different bitters can introduce new flavor profiles.
• Temperature is Key: Always ensure your glass is cold and avoid over-diluting the cocktail. Using large, clear ice cubes can also enhance the drink’s aesthetics.