The Manhattan. A drink steeped in history, shrouded in sophistication, and capable of satisfying even the most discerning palate. Ordering one, however, can be more than simply uttering the name. To truly get what you want, and to impress your bartender in the process, understanding the nuances and customization options of this iconic cocktail is key. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently order the perfect Manhattan, every single time.
Understanding the Foundation: What is a Manhattan?
At its core, the Manhattan is a simple cocktail: whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. However, within that simplicity lies a world of possibilities. The beauty of the Manhattan is in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your specific preferences. Before you approach the bar, it’s crucial to understand the essential components and their potential variations.
The Whiskey: The Heart of the Manhattan
The whiskey is undeniably the star of the show. The type of whiskey you choose significantly impacts the final flavor profile. Traditionally, rye whiskey is considered the classic choice. Its spicy, robust character cuts through the sweetness of the vermouth, providing a balanced and complex drink. Bourbon, with its sweeter, smoother notes of caramel and vanilla, is a popular alternative, resulting in a gentler, more approachable Manhattan. Canadian whisky can also be used, though it often produces a lighter, more subtle flavor.
For the adventurous drinker, exploring different whiskeys can be a rewarding experience. Consider experimenting with high-rye bourbons for a compromise between spice and sweetness, or even Irish whiskey for a unique twist. The key is to consider your personal taste preferences and the overall profile you’re aiming for.
The Vermouth: Sweetness and Complexity
Sweet vermouth adds sweetness, body, and aromatic complexity to the Manhattan. While there are many brands available, a quality sweet vermouth is essential for a well-balanced cocktail. Look for vermouths with a rich, herbal character and a balanced sweetness. Some popular and reliable choices include Carpano Antica Formula, Cocchi di Torino, and Dolin Rouge.
Keep in mind that vermouth is a fortified wine and, like wine, degrades after opening. To maintain its freshness and flavor, it’s best to store your vermouth in the refrigerator after opening and consume it within a few weeks.
The Bitters: Adding Depth and Nuance
Bitters are the unsung heroes of the cocktail world, adding depth, complexity, and a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. Angostura bitters are the classic choice for a Manhattan, providing a warm, spicy, and slightly bitter flavor that complements both rye and bourbon. However, experimenting with other bitters can elevate your Manhattan to new heights.
Consider orange bitters for a brighter, citrusy note, or chocolate bitters for a richer, more decadent experience. A dash or two of aromatic bitters can also add a subtle layer of complexity. Don’t be afraid to ask your bartender for recommendations or to sample different bitters before making your decision.
Ordering Like a Pro: Specifying Your Preferences
Now that you understand the fundamental components, you can confidently order a Manhattan that reflects your personal tastes. Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects to consider when placing your order.
Choosing Your Whiskey
This is where you truly personalize your Manhattan. Be specific when stating your whiskey preference. Instead of simply saying “whiskey,” specify the type and brand you desire. For example:
- “I’d like a Manhattan with Rittenhouse Rye.”
- “Can I get a Manhattan with Maker’s Mark Bourbon?”
- “I’ll have a Manhattan with Crown Royal.”
If you’re unsure which whiskey to choose, ask your bartender for recommendations. They can often suggest whiskeys that pair well with the other ingredients and suit your palate.
Specifying the Vermouth
While most bars will use a standard sweet vermouth, specifying your preferred brand can significantly enhance your experience. If you have a favorite vermouth, don’t hesitate to request it.
- “I’d like a Manhattan with Carpano Antica Formula vermouth.”
- “Could I have a Manhattan with Dolin Rouge?”
If you don’t have a specific preference, you can simply state “sweet vermouth” or ask the bartender what they recommend.
Adjusting the Ratio: Sweet, Dry, or Perfect?
The classic Manhattan uses a 2:1 ratio of whiskey to sweet vermouth. However, you can adjust this ratio to create a sweeter, drier, or more balanced drink.
- Sweet Manhattan: More sweet vermouth than the standard ratio.
- Dry Manhattan: Uses dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth.
- Perfect Manhattan: Uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.
When ordering, simply specify your preferred style:
- “I’d like a Sweet Manhattan, please.”
- “Can I get a Dry Manhattan?”
- “I’ll have a Perfect Manhattan.”
Choosing Your Bitters
As mentioned earlier, Angostura bitters are the classic choice. However, feel free to explore other options to tailor the flavor to your liking.
- “I’d like a Manhattan with orange bitters.”
- “Can I get a Manhattan with chocolate bitters?”
- “I’ll have a Manhattan with Angostura bitters, please.”
If you’re unsure, you can simply say “with bitters” and let the bartender choose the classic Angostura bitters.
Up or on the Rocks? Specifying Temperature and Dilution
A Manhattan is traditionally served “up,” meaning chilled and strained into a stemmed glass (usually a coupe or martini glass). However, you can also order it “on the rocks,” meaning served over ice in a rocks glass. Serving it on the rocks will dilute the drink more quickly, but it can be a refreshing option, especially in warmer weather.
- “I’d like a Manhattan, up, please.”
- “Can I get a Manhattan, on the rocks?”
The Garnish: The Finishing Touch
The classic Manhattan garnish is a maraschino cherry. However, you can also request a lemon twist or an orange peel. The garnish adds a visual appeal and a subtle aroma that complements the flavors of the cocktail.
- “I’d like a Manhattan with a cherry.”
- “Can I get a Manhattan with a lemon twist?”
- “I’ll have a Manhattan with an orange peel, please.”
Putting it All Together: Examples of Ordering Scenarios
To solidify your understanding, let’s look at some examples of how to order a Manhattan in different scenarios.
Scenario 1: You want a classic Manhattan with rye whiskey and a cherry.
“I’d like a Manhattan with Rittenhouse Rye, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, up with a cherry, please.”
Scenario 2: You prefer a sweeter Manhattan with bourbon and orange bitters.
“Can I get a Sweet Manhattan with Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Dolin Rouge vermouth, and orange bitters, up with a cherry?”
Scenario 3: You want a dry Manhattan on the rocks with a lemon twist.
“I’ll have a Dry Manhattan with Canadian whisky, dry vermouth, Angostura bitters, on the rocks with a lemon twist.”
Scenario 4: You’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new.
“I’m in the mood for a Manhattan, but I’m open to suggestions. What whiskey and bitters do you recommend?”
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Customization
For the truly discerning drinker, there are even more ways to customize your Manhattan. These advanced options require a deeper understanding of cocktail techniques and ingredients, but they can result in truly exceptional drinks.
Washing the Whiskey
Washing the whiskey involves infusing it with a flavorful oil, such as sesame oil or coconut oil, and then removing the oil through a process called fat-washing. This technique adds a subtle layer of flavor and texture to the whiskey, creating a unique and complex Manhattan.
Barrel-Aging
Some bars offer barrel-aged Manhattans, which are pre-mixed cocktails aged in oak barrels. This process imparts a subtle oaky flavor and rounds out the edges of the cocktail, creating a smoother and more integrated experience.
Infusions and Syrups
Experimenting with infused whiskeys or homemade syrups can add a completely new dimension to your Manhattan. Consider a vanilla-infused bourbon or a spiced cherry syrup for a truly unique and personalized cocktail.
The Art of Ordering: Tips for a Smooth Experience
Ordering a Manhattan should be a pleasurable experience. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and successful interaction with your bartender.
- Be polite and patient: Bartenders are often busy, especially during peak hours. Be respectful of their time and wait your turn.
- Be clear and concise: State your preferences clearly and avoid using overly complicated language.
- Be open to suggestions: If you’re unsure what to order, ask your bartender for recommendations. They are experts in their craft and can often guide you to the perfect drink.
- Tip generously: A generous tip is a sign of appreciation for the bartender’s skill and service.
A Final Word: Enjoy the Journey
Ordering a Manhattan is more than just ordering a drink; it’s an opportunity to explore the world of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. Experiment with different combinations, discover your preferences, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. With a little knowledge and confidence, you can confidently order the perfect Manhattan, every single time.
What are the essential ingredients for a Manhattan cocktail?
The core ingredients for a Manhattan are rye whiskey (or bourbon, though rye is more traditional), sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The specific ratios and quality of each ingredient significantly impact the final flavor profile. A good quality whiskey, a balanced sweet vermouth, and genuine Angostura bitters are crucial for a classic Manhattan.
While some variations exist, straying too far from these base ingredients risks altering the fundamental character of the cocktail. The interplay between the spicy rye, the herbal sweetness of the vermouth, and the aromatic bitters creates a complex and satisfying drink that should be respected during preparation. Remember that ingredient quality impacts the final result.
What is the difference between using rye whiskey and bourbon in a Manhattan?
Rye whiskey generally imparts a spicier, drier flavor to the Manhattan, offering a more robust and complex experience. Its higher rye content brings notes of pepper, spice, and a subtle dryness that complements the sweetness of the vermouth. Many purists believe rye is essential for a truly authentic Manhattan.
Bourbon, on the other hand, lends a sweeter, smoother profile to the cocktail. With its higher corn content, bourbon delivers caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, resulting in a richer, rounder taste. Choosing between rye and bourbon depends on personal preference, but rye is traditionally considered the base spirit for a Manhattan.
What are some common variations of the Manhattan cocktail?
Several variations on the classic Manhattan exist, each offering a unique twist on the original. The Rob Roy substitutes Scotch whisky for rye, while the Perfect Manhattan uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth. The Dry Manhattan uses dry vermouth instead of sweet, resulting in a less sweet, more assertive drink.
Other variations include the Metropolitan, which uses brandy instead of whiskey, and the Cuban Manhattan, which adds a dash of rum. Experimenting with these variations can be a fun way to explore different flavor combinations and discover your preferred Manhattan style. Remember to adjust the bitters accordingly to balance the overall flavor profile.
How should a Manhattan be stirred and not shaken?
Manhattans, like most spirit-forward cocktails, should be stirred, not shaken, to maintain their clarity and texture. Shaking introduces air into the drink, creating a cloudy appearance and diluting the cocktail more quickly. Stirring gently chills the ingredients while preserving their integrity.
The goal is to achieve a well-chilled and properly diluted cocktail without compromising its smooth, silky mouthfeel. Shaking can also bruise the delicate flavors of the vermouth and bitters. A slow, deliberate stirring technique is key to creating a perfectly balanced and visually appealing Manhattan.
What garnish is traditionally used for a Manhattan?
The traditional garnish for a Manhattan is a maraschino cherry. A high-quality, Luxardo cherry is often preferred over the overly sweet, artificially colored variety found in many grocery stores. The cherry adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal to the drink.
Some bartenders also use a lemon twist as an alternative garnish, expressing the oils over the drink and then discarding the peel. The citrus oils provide a bright, aromatic counterpoint to the rich, boozy flavors of the cocktail. The choice of garnish is ultimately a matter of personal preference.
What is the best glass to serve a Manhattan in?
A Manhattan is typically served in a coupe glass or a stemmed cocktail glass (martini glass). Both options provide an elegant presentation and help maintain the drink’s temperature. The stem prevents the drinker’s hand from warming the cocktail too quickly.
While less traditional, some people also enjoy serving Manhattans in a rocks glass over a large ice cube. This option can help dilute the drink slightly and keep it colder for a longer period. However, serving it “up” in a stemmed glass is generally considered the more classic presentation.
How can I adjust the sweetness of a Manhattan to my liking?
The sweetness of a Manhattan can be adjusted by modifying the ratio of sweet vermouth to whiskey. For a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of sweet vermouth or consider using a dry vermouth for a Dry Manhattan. Experiment with different vermouth brands, as their sweetness levels can vary.
Another way to control the sweetness is by adding a small amount of a complementary bitter, such as orange bitters, to balance the flavors. Some bartenders also add a dash of simple syrup to adjust the overall sweetness. Ultimately, finding the perfect balance requires experimentation and personal taste preference.