There’s nothing quite like a classic Manhattan to warm your spirits on a chilly evening. The timeless combination of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters has been delighting palates for over a century. But why stick to the same old recipe when you can elevate it with creative twists and flavors? In this article, we’ll take 19 iconic Manhattan recipes and give them a refined makeover. From smoky mezcal to spiced apple cider, and from sweet vermouth to savory bacon-infused bourbon, we’ll show you how to put your own spin on these timeless cocktails.
Perfect Manhattan with Rye Whiskey
A twist on the classic Manhattan recipe, this version uses rye whiskey instead of bourbon for a spicy and complex flavor profile. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet and savory in this iconic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters over the ice.
3. Stir for approximately 20-30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Bourbon Manhattan with Angostura Bitters
Elevate the classic Manhattan cocktail by swapping out whiskey for bourbon and adding a dash of complexity with Angostura bitters.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the bourbon and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Add the Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Sweet Manhattan with Italian Vermouth
This modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail combines the rich flavors of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters with a touch of sweetness from Maraschino liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Italian Vermouth
– 1/4 oz Maraschino Liqueur
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, Italian Vermouth, and Maraschino liqueur.
3. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink!
Dry Manhattan with French Vermouth
A variation on the classic Manhattan cocktail, this recipe substitutes sweet vermouth with French vermouth for a drier, more sophisticated taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (Bourbon or Rye work well)
– 1/2 oz French Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, French vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink (if using) and garnish.
Cooking Time: None required – this is a mixed drink!
Smoked Cherry Manhattan
Experience the rich flavors of a classic Manhattan cocktail with a twist, as smoky notes from cherry wood smoke complement the sweetness of cherry liqueur. This unique take on the timeless drink is perfect for those who enjoy bold and complex flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz cherry liqueur
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry wood smoke-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Ice
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Add 1/2 oz of the smoked simple syrup.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Maple Old Fashioned Manhattan
Maple Old Fashioned Manhattan Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of a classic Manhattan cocktail with a hint of sweetness and warmth from pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (Canadian or American)
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Maple Syrup (pure Canadian)
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey and vermouth.
3. Add 2 dashes of maple syrup.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Black Walnut Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and complex Black Walnut Manhattan. The combination of black walnut liqueur, whiskey, and sweet vermouth creates a sophisticated and indulgent drink perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Black Walnut Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, black walnut liqueur, and sweet vermouth.
3. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir the mixture for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None (preparation time: around 1 minute)
Spiced Apple Cider Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this autumnal take on the classic Manhattan, featuring spiced apple cider for a cozy twist.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/4 oz cinnamon syrup (see note)
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, apple cider, sweet vermouth, and cinnamon syrup.
3. Stir until chilled, about 30 seconds.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add Angostura bitters and stir gently.
6. Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.
Note: To make cinnamon syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Cooking Time: None
Bacon-Infused Bourbon Manhattan
Elevate your classic Manhattan cocktail with a smoky twist by infusing bourbon with crispy bacon. This unique combination creates a rich, savory flavor profile that’s perfect for those who dare to be different.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bacon-infused bourbon (see below)
– 1 oz Sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry garnish
Bacon-Infused Bourbon:
– 1/4 cup Crispy cooked bacon, finely chopped
– 2 cups Bourbon whiskey
Combine the chopped bacon and bourbon in a glass jar. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Strain the liquid into another container, discarding the solids.
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bacon-infused bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None
Rosemary-Infused Manhattan
Rosemary-Infused Manhattan Recipe
Elevate your classic Manhattan cocktail with the earthy, herbaceous flavor of rosemary. This unique twist combines the boldness of whiskey and vermouth with the subtle hint of fresh rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/4 oz Rosemary Syrup (see below for recipe)
– Dash of Angostura Bitters
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish
Rosemary Syrup:
– 1 cup Water
– 1 cup Sugar
– 1/4 cup Fresh Rosemary Leaves
– Simmer the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then strain and let cool.
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, vermouth, rosemary syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Chocolate Bitters Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this indulgent twist on the classic Manhattan recipe. The addition of chocolate bitters adds a deep, velvety flavor that pairs perfectly with the whiskey and sweet vermouth.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Chocolate Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and chocolate bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None!
Orange Twist Manhattan
This refreshing take on the classic Manhattan cocktail combines the bold flavors of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters with the sweet and tangy essence of orange. The result is a unique and delicious drink that’s perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Orange Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 3 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, orange liqueur, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed drink, not cooked.
Luxardo Cherry Manhattan
Luxardo Cherry Manhattan Recipe
Experience the classic combination of Luxardo Cherry Liqueur, whiskey, and bitters in this timeless cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Luxardo Cherry Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 3 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Luxardo Cherry Liqueur, and sweet vermouth.
3. Add 3 dashes of Angostura Bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Manhattan
Take your classic Manhattan cocktail to new heights by aging it in a bourbon barrel, infusing the whiskey and vermouth with rich, oaky flavors. This process adds depth and complexity to the drink, making it perfect for special occasions or sipping on a quiet evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (Bourbon Barrel-Aged)
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine whiskey, vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None (aging process takes place before serving)
Let this Bourbon Barrel-Aged Manhattan transport you to a world of sophisticated flavor, perfect for those who appreciate a refined whiskey experience.
Smoky Mezcal Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this Smoky Mezcal Manhattan, combining the bold flavors of mezcal, smoky Lapsang souchong tea, and rich whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) mezcal
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) dry vermouth
– 1/4 oz (7.5 ml) Lapsang souchong tea-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the mezcal, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and simple syrup.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation time: about 2 minutes)
Note: To make Lapsang souchong tea-infused simple syrup, steep 1 tablespoon of loose-leaf Lapsang souchong tea in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes. Strain and mix with an equal amount of sugar until dissolved.
Autumn Spice Manhattan
As the seasons change, warm up with a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail by incorporating autumnal spices and flavors.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
• 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
• 1/2 oz Autumn Spice Syrup (see below)
• Dash of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel, for garnish
Autumn Spice Syrup:
• 1 cup Water
• 1 cup Sugar
• 2 tbsp Ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp Ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp Allspice
Combine syrup ingredients in a saucepan, bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool.
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, vermouth, and Autumn Spice Syrup.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for 20-30 seconds to chill and combine.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
6. Garnish with an orange peel.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just mix and serve.
Vanilla Bean Manhattan
A twist on the classic cocktail, this Vanilla Bean Manhattan combines the smoothness of vanilla with the boldness of whiskey and bitters.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Vanilla-flavored simple syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, vanilla-flavored simple syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 2 minutes
– Total time: 4 minutes
Espresso-Infused Manhattan
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique take on the classic Manhattan, featuring the rich flavors of espresso. Perfect for coffee lovers and whiskey enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/2 oz Espresso liqueur (such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and espresso liqueur.
3. Add the Angostura bitters.
4. Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Pomegranate Manhattan
Transform a classic cocktail into a refreshing twist with the sweet and tangy flavors of pomegranate. This recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you want to add some excitement to your drink game.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz grenadine syrup
– 1/2 oz pomegranate juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, lime juice, grenadine, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these refined takes on classic Manhattan recipes. From the perfect blend of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth to bold twists like smoky mezcal and bacon-infused bourbon, there’s something for every palate. Try substituting ingredients like Italian or French vermouth, adding a splash of citrus or spice, or incorporating unique flavors like black walnut or rosemary. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking for inspiration, these 19 recipes are sure to delight.
