Perfect Manhattan recipe
Rye, two vermouths, and bitters in a drier, more layered Manhattan build.
Method: Stir ·
Glass: Nick & Nora glass (chilled) ·
Time: 4 min ·
Difficulty: Intermediate ·
Family: The Martini Family
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey (a lively, spicy rye)
- 0.5 oz Dry Vermouth (fresh and refrigerated)
- 0.5 oz Sweet Vermouth (fresh and refrigerated)
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
How to make a Perfect Manhattan
- Chill a Nick & Nora glass or small cocktail glass.
- Add rye, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir for about 30 seconds, until the drink is cold and lightly diluted.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Finish with a brandied cherry or express a lemon twist over the surface and discard it.
Garnish
Brandied cherry or a lemon twist.
Pro tip
The two vermouths are the point: equal parts make the drink drier and more herbal than a standard sweet-vermouth Manhattan. Keep both bottles cold after opening so the balance stays fresh.
History of the Perfect Manhattan
In cocktail terminology, perfect means that sweet and dry vermouth are used in equal proportions. The style is a close relative of the classic Manhattan, whose familiar rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters structure is broadened here with a dry vermouth layer rather than replaced.
Flavour profile
Spiced, Dry, Herbal, Rich
Variations
- Manhattan — Use sweet vermouth alone for the richer classic structure
- Rob Roy — Replace rye whiskey with Scotch whisky
- Black Manhattan — Replace the vermouth with Averna amaro for a darker, bittersweet profile
Practise making the Perfect Manhattan in the free Virtual Bar game.