What’s the Secret Ingredient in a Perfect Manhattan?
Ah, the Manhattan. The king of cocktails, the granddaddy of bourbon-based beverages. There’s no denying that this classic cocktail has stood the test of time, and for good reason. It’s simple, elegant, and most importantly, delicious. But what makes a perfect Manhattan? Is it the type of bourbon? The vermouth? The bitters? Well, the answer is a little more complex than that. There’s one secret ingredient that separates a great Manhattan from a perfect one: attention to detail.
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s cover the basics. A classic Manhattan is made up of three ingredients: bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The ratios typically fall around 2 parts bourbon to 1 part sweet vermouth, with a dash of bitters to tie it all together. The cocktail is typically served straight up, though it can be enjoyed on the rocks as well. Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
1. The Bourbon
The first and most important ingredient in a Manhattan is the bourbon. This is where you can really make or break the cocktail. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that’s made primarily from corn. It’s aged in charred oak barrels, which gives it a distinct woody flavor. There are many different types of bourbons out there, each with their own unique flavor profile.
To make the perfect Manhattan, you need to choose a bourbon that’s strong enough to hold up to the other ingredients, but not so overpowering that it takes over the whole drink. Here are a few options to consider:
– Maker’s Mark: This bourbon has a smooth, rich flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. It’s a great choice for those who want a well-rounded Manhattan.
– Buffalo Trace: This bourbon has a spicy, oaky flavor with notes of caramel and vanilla. It’s a great choice for those who want a little more kick in their cocktail.
– Woodford Reserve: This bourbon has a complex flavor with hints of oak, vanilla, and spice. It’s a great choice for those who want a more nuanced Manhattan.
It’s worth noting that some people prefer to use rye whiskey instead of bourbon in their Manhattan. Rye whiskey has a spicier, more complex flavor profile than bourbon, which can make for a more interesting cocktail. However, it’s also a bit more difficult to work with, so if you’re new to making Manhattans, we recommend starting with bourbon.
2. The Vermouth
The second ingredient in a Manhattan is sweet vermouth. Vermouth is a fortified wine that’s flavored with botanicals and other ingredients. It’s a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, including the Manhattan and the Martini.
When choosing a vermouth for your Manhattan, you want to look for a bottle that’s sweet, but not too sweet. You also want to make sure it’s fresh. Vermouth can go bad if it’s been sitting on your shelf for too long, so be sure to check the expiration date before using it.
Here are a few vermouths to consider:
– Carpano Antica Formula: This vermouth has a rich, complex flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and herbs. It’s a great choice for those who want a more decadent Manhattan.
– Dolin Rouge: This vermouth has a lighter, more delicate flavor with hints of cherry and spice. It’s a great choice for those who want a Manhattan that’s a little more subtle.
– Martini & Rossi: This is a classic choice for vermouth. It has a slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavor that works well in a Manhattan.
3. The Bitters
The final ingredient in a Manhattan is bitters. Bitters are a concentrated flavoring agent made from a variety of herbs and spices. They’re used in small amounts to add depth and complexity to cocktails.
When it comes to bitters, there are a few different options to consider. Angostura bitters are the most commonly used in Manhattans, but there are other types that can work as well. Here are a few to consider:
– Regans’ Orange Bitters: These bitters have a bright, citrusy flavor that works well with the other ingredients in a Manhattan.
– Peychaud’s Bitters: These bitters have a sweet, herbaceous flavor with hints of anise and coriander. They’re a great choice for those who want to add a little extra complexity to their cocktail.
– Fee Brothers Whiskey Barrel-Aged Bitters: These bitters are aged in whiskey barrels, which gives them a rich, smoky flavor. They’re a great choice for those who want a more robust Manhattan.
Attention to Detail
Now that we’ve covered the three main ingredients in a Manhattan, let’s talk about the real secret to making the perfect one: attention to detail.
When it comes to making a great Manhattan, the smallest things can make a big difference. Here are a few tips to help you take your cocktail to the next level:
– Chill your glass: The glass you serve your Manhattan in should be cold. You can achieve this by chilling it in the freezer for a few minutes before making your cocktail.
– Use high-quality ice: Believe it or not, the type of ice you use in your Manhattan can make a big difference. Avoid using ice that’s been sitting in your freezer for too long, as it can pick up odors and flavors from other foods. Instead, use fresh ice that’s been made with filtered water.
– Stir, don’t shake: Some people like to shake their Manhattans, but this can actually dilute the cocktail and affect the flavor. Instead, stir your cocktail gently with a bar spoon or cocktail stirrer. This will help to blend the ingredients together without watering down the drink.
– Garnish with care: A Manhattan doesn’t need much in the way of garnish, but a well-placed cherry can add a nice touch. Avoid using the bright red maraschino cherries you find in the grocery store, as they’re often filled with artificial colors and flavors. Instead, opt for a high-quality cherry like Luxardo or Amarena.
Conclusion
So, what’s the secret ingredient in a perfect Manhattan? It’s attention to detail. By choosing high-quality ingredients, chilling your glass, using fresh ice, and stirring gently, you can take your cocktail to the next level. Whether you prefer your Manhattan with bourbon or rye, sweet vermouth or dry, remember that it’s the little things that make a big difference. So, raise a glass to the king of cocktails, and here’s to making the perfect Manhattan every time.
Image Credit: Pexels