The Manhattan cocktail, a sophisticated blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, is a staple in the world of mixology. Its origin story is as rich and complex as its flavor profile. The Manhattan is widely regarded as the first modern cocktail, making its debut in the mid-1800s.
History and Inception
The exact origins of the Manhattan are shrouded in mystery and competing legends. One popular yet discredited tale suggests that it was created in 1874 at the Manhattan Club in New York City for a banquet hosted by Jennie Jerome Churchill, Winston Churchill’s mother, in honor of presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden. However, this story is unlikely as Lady Churchill was in England at the time.
A more credible account attributes the cocktail’s creation to a bartender named George Black in the 1860s. According to William F. Mulhall, a bartender at Hoffman House in New York, Black invented the Manhattan at his bar on Broadway.
Regardless of its true origin, the Manhattan quickly gained popularity and became a favorite among New York’s elite. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, particularly during Prohibition, when Canadian whiskey became a popular substitute due to its availability.
Manhattan
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey or Bourbon
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dash Angostura Bitters
- 1 Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Chill the Glass: Place a cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water to chill.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
- Stir with Ice: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry.