Old Fashioned Manhattan Recipe

Rye whiskey: A type of whiskey made primarily from rye grain, known for its spicy and robust flavor.

Sweet vermouth: A fortified wine flavored with various botanicals, adding a sweet and aromatic touch to the cocktail.

Angostura bitters: A concentrated herbal bitter used to add depth and complexity to cocktails.

Maraschino cherry: A sweet cherry preserved in a syrup, used as a garnish to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.

Orange peel: A twist of orange peel used as a garnish to add a hint of citrus aroma and flavor.

When preparing an Old Fashioned Manhattan, it's crucial to use a cocktail shaker filled with plenty of ice to ensure the drink is properly chilled. Stirring the mixture instead of shaking it helps to maintain the clarity and smooth texture of the rye whiskey and sweet vermouth. Additionally, when garnishing with a twist of orange peel, hold the peel over the glass and give it a slight twist to release the essential oils, enhancing the drink's aroma and flavor.

• rye whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon is sweeter and smoother, which can provide a different but still enjoyable flavor profile.

• sweet vermouth - Substitute with dry vermouth: Dry vermouth will make the drink less sweet and more herbal, offering a unique twist on the classic.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters add a citrusy note that complements the other ingredients well.

• maraschino cherry - Substitute with brandied cherry: Brandied cherries have a richer, more complex flavor that enhances the drink.

• orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel provides a different citrus aroma and a slightly more acidic taste.

• To store your Old Fashioned Manhattan, transfer any leftover cocktail into an airtight container or a glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. This helps maintain the flavor and prevents any unwanted aromas from seeping in.
• Keep the container in the refrigerator. The cocktail will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.
• If you plan to freeze the cocktail, pour it into an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer the cocktail cubes into a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy a perfectly chilled drink whenever you desire.
• When ready to serve, simply place a few cocktail cubes into a glass and let them melt slightly. This will chill the drink without diluting it too much.
• For garnishes like maraschino cherries and orange peel, store them separately in the refrigerator. Keep the maraschino cherries in their original syrup to maintain their sweetness and texture. The orange peel can be stored in a small airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap.
• If you prefer to prepare garnishes in advance, you can freeze the orange peel. Lay the peels flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you’ll always have a fresh twist of orange peel ready to elevate your Old Fashioned Manhattan.
• Remember to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness. This ensures you enjoy the best possible cocktail experience every time.

• Pour the Old Fashioned Manhattan into a small saucepan.
• Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to let it boil.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe glass. Heat in the microwave on medium power in 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• If you prefer a more traditional approach, place the cocktail in a heatproof glass and set it in a bowl of hot water. Let it sit until it warms up to your liking.
• Once reheated, pour the cocktail back into a chilled glass.
• Garnish again with a fresh maraschino cherry and a twist of orange peel to refresh the flavors.

• cocktail shaker: used to mix the ingredients with ice to chill the drink

• ice: essential for chilling the drink during mixing

• strainer: used to separate the liquid from the ice when pouring into the glass

• cocktail glass: the vessel in which the Manhattan is served

• bar spoon: used for stirring the ingredients in the cocktail shaker

• jigger: a measuring tool to ensure precise amounts of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth

• peeler: used to create the twist of orange peel for garnish

• maraschino cherry: a garnish to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal

Pre-chill your glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you start. This ensures your Manhattan stays cold longer.

Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure your rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters and keep them ready. This speeds up the mixing process.

Use a mixing glass: Instead of a cocktail shaker, use a mixing glass to combine ingredients. It’s faster and easier to clean.

Batch your cocktails: If making multiple servings, mix a larger batch and store in the fridge. Pour and garnish as needed.

Garnish prep: Pre-cut your orange peel and have maraschino cherries ready. This saves time during assembly.