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Manhattan Recipe: The Perfect Whiskey Classic

Born in late-19th-century New York - often traced to the Manhattan Club - the Manhattan is the whiskey world's benchmark for balance, marrying rye or bourbon with sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. What elevates a great Manhattan is quality vermouth, a whiskey you enjoy neat, the right ratio (try two parts whiskey to one part vermouth and two dashes of bitters), and patient stirring over ice until properly chilled and slightly diluted. A Luxardo cherry and an orange twist are classy finishing touches. Practical tip: keep vermouth refrigerated and taste it often - stale vermouth flattens the drink. If you're in Buffalo, stop by Buffalo House Liquor and Wines and we'll help you choose the perfect bottle.

Prep4 min
Servings1 cocktail
GlassCoupe glass
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

2 oz Rye whiskey (or bourbon)
1 oz Sweet vermouth
2 dash Angostura bitters

Instructions

  1. Add rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir for 30 seconds — never shake a Manhattan.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
  4. Garnish with a brandied cherry (Luxardo if you can find them).
Garnish: Brandied cherry
💡 Pro tips: Use fresh vermouth — once opened, vermouth oxidizes within a month and ruins your cocktail. Keep it in the fridge. For a Perfect Manhattan, split the vermouth half-and-half between sweet and dry.

Shop the Bottles for Your Manhattan

Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.

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Bourbon Alternatives


Want more cocktail inspiration? Browse our full cocktail recipes collection, or pair this drink with our latest spirits guides. For questions about any bottle, call us at (716) 770-1230.

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