The Manhattan cocktail, a beloved classic, is said to have made its debut sometime in the 1880s. This iconic drink brings together the harmonious blend of whiskey, bitters, vermouth, and maraschino cherries. While the origins of Manhattan are quite fuzzy, its story truly leaves a lot of room for imagination. Sources place the beloved cocktail in cahoots with Winston Churchill’s mother Lady Churchill. Interestingly enough her record shows that she isn’t linked to even being in the United States at the time of the drink’s creation, according to Liquor.com. This leaves us pondering just how long this timeless libation has truly been around.

The Manhattan’s story is not confined to a single source; it also has ties to New York City’s Manhattan Club and the vibrant world of Broadway. This drink has undoubtedly had its fair share of adventures throughout history, making it a cherished classic in the world of cocktails no matter its true beginnings.

The Manhattan recipe is truly iconic for a reason; it works due to the careful balance of its key ingredients. With the base of the Manhattan, typically consisting of rye or bourbon whiskey, provides a rich, robust flavor profile. The whiskey’s complex notes, which may include caramel, vanilla, and oak, create a solid foundation for the cocktail. Its alcohol content adds warmth and depth to the drink. Vermouth introduces a hint of sweetness and a touch of herbal complexity. It balances the strong character of the whiskey, contributing to a smoother and more nuanced taste. A couple of dashes of bitters, often Angostura bitters, are like the cocktail’s seasoning. They add depth, complexity, and a subtle spiciness that ties all the ingredients together.

Furthermore, the garnish of maraschino cherries not only adds a pop of color but also a sweet, fruity note. It provides a contrasting flavor that pairs well with whiskey and vermouth. The Manhattan’s mouthfeel is luxurious and well-rounded creating a velvety, full-bodied texture. The alcohol content warms the palate while the sweetness from the vermouth and cherries offers a pleasing, lingering finish.

Torch Your Fruit to Add an Extra Layer of Depth

Torching fruit, such as citrus peels on your Manhattan Cocktail is a method that can unlock and intensify the natural flavors within. When heat meets the fruit’s surface, it caramelizes the sugars and essential oils, creating a complex and often smoky sweetness. This process enhances the fruit’s inherent taste, making it richer and more pronounced.

Beyond flavor, torching fruit releases captivating aromatics. As the torch ignites the fruit’s natural oils, it emits a fragrant bouquet that wafts through the air, enticing the senses and adding an olfactory dimension to the cocktail experience. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate your cocktail game, turning a classic Manhattan or any other libation into a genuinely extraordinary creation. So, go ahead and grab your favorite citrus peel and some flames and make cocktail history.

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey
• 1-ounce sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Garnish: Luxardo maraschino cherry

Directions:

1. Start by chilling a cocktail glass. You can place it in the freezer or fill it with ice while you prepare your drink.
2. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Add ice and stir until well-chilled.
3. Now, for an extra layer of flavor and aroma, we will brulee an orange or lemon twist. Hold a citrus peel (either orange or lemon) over your cocktail and use a culinary torch to gently caramelize the outer surface. This releases the citrus oils and imparts a subtle smokiness to your cocktail.
4. Strain your stirred Manhattan into the chilled glass.
5. Garnish your Manhattan with a Luxardo maraschino cherry.
6. Finally, add your brulee-ed orange or lemon twist, allowing the aromatic citrus oils to cascade over your drink, enhancing the overall experience.
7. Sip and savor your beautifully crafted Manhattan, and enjoy the exquisite blend of flavors and aromas.