This Whiskey Manhattan Classic Cocktail will satisfy your cravings for a familiar drink with no fancy ingredients and no unique twists. This boozy cocktail is served strait up with a bitter flavor that’s followed by a hint of sweetness. Perfect for happy hour!
What’s your favorite classic cocktail recipe?
Sometimes, you find yourself craving a familiar drink. No fancy ingredients, no unique twists, just a deliciously simple cocktail. There’s a reason the Manhattan is a classic. This boozy cocktail is served straight up, and although this drink has a bitter flavor, you might begin to notice a hint of sweetness on your second sip.
Some cocktails can feel complicated or intimidating, but the Manhattan is simple and easy to put together. You don’t need a lot of ingredients and it comes together quickly!
When choosing a whiskey for a Manhattan, most purists will recommend a rye whiskey. This stays true to the classic roots of the cocktail. You can make it with bourbon, but rye whiskey will give you a spicier flavor. Also, since this cocktail is made without ice in the glass, I recommend finding a rye whiskey that you really love. Since the whiskey won’t be diluted, the flavor really shines in this drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1-2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Add ice in a cocktail shaker.
- Add the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters.
- Rub the rim of the cocktail glass with an orange peel.
- Strain the drink into the glass and garnish with a cherry.
Notes
Home Chef Tip: You can make this cocktail with bourbon, but rye whiskey will give you a spicier flavor.

Some food pairings for your Whiskey Manhattan:
- An arugula salad with figs and goat cheese is a great pairing with a whiskey drink. The sharpness of the arugula and creaminess of the goat cheese are a great balance. Plus, you can’t beat the delicious sweetness of a fresh fig! If you’re feeling a little fancier, you can make these Goat Cheese and Fig Tartlets!
- Dark chocolate is a great compliment to just about any whiskey drink. Try these Extra Dark Chocolate Truffles for an easy treat.
- Apple desserts can also be a fantastic pairing with a Manhattan. Try apple pie, apple crumble, or even an apple puff pastry for a tasty combination.
We hope you love this Classic Manhattan recipe from SoFabFood Home Chef, Liz from I heart Vegetables, as much as we do. If you love this classy drink, stop by our cocktails section to find more like it. For daily recipe inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Pinterest. Enjoy!
This message is intended for our readers 21+ years of age. Please drink responsibly!
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