📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 28%
Calories 186 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 4g
Prep time 5 minutes
Looking for the perfect Makers Manhattan cocktail? You’re in for a treat! The Makers Manhattan is a delicious blend of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, creating a rich and sophisticated drink. We’ll explore its history, flavor, ingredients, and even some fun facts. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! ⬇️
History
The Makers Manhattan cocktail originated in the 1870s in New York City, named after the Manhattan Club. It quickly became popular due to its balanced mix of flavors. Today, it remains a classic favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
- The name “Manhattan” comes from the Manhattan Club in New York City.
- It was created in the early 1870s.
- The original recipe used rye whiskey instead of bourbon.
The taste of a Makers Manhattan?
A Makers Manhattan tastes rich and smooth, with a perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors. The bourbon adds warmth, the vermouth brings sweetness, and the bitters add a hint of spice.
I personally love drinking Makers Manhattans because they’re incredibly sophisticated.
Interesting facts about Makers Manhattan
- It’s often garnished with a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel.
- Different types of bitters can change the drink’s overall flavor.
- The drink is typically stirred, not shaken, to maintain its clarity.
Ingredients 📃
- Bourbon: 2 oz (60 ml)
- Sweet vermouth: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Maraschino cherry: 1 (for garnish)
A Makers Manhattan is best served in a **coupe glass**. This glass enhances the drinking experience by keeping the drink cool and allows the flavors to blend perfectly. Alternatively, a **martini glass** can also work well.
Recipe. How to make Makers Manhattan 🍹
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in bourbon (*2 oz*) and sweet vermouth (*1 oz*).
- Add Angostura bitters (*2 dashes*).
- Stir the mixture well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
While Makers Manhattan is a delightful cocktail, it contains alcohol and sugar, which can be high in calories. Opting for a lighter vermouth or using natural sweeteners can make a healthier version without compromising the taste.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Makers Manhattan beautifully.
Steak
The robust flavors of a juicy steak pair well with the rich and smooth taste of a Makers Manhattan.
Cheese Board
A variety of cheeses, especially sharp and aged ones, enhance the complex flavors of the cocktail.
Dark Chocolate
The bittersweet taste of dark chocolate perfectly matches the warmth and sweetness of a Makers Manhattan.
I really enjoy the taste of Makers Manhattans—the blend of flavors makes it a perfect drink for relaxing.
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Bartender Advice
- *Chill* your glass before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
- *Stir* the cocktail gently to avoid dilution and maintain clarity.
- Use *fresh* and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Makers Manhattan, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Makers Manhattan
- Bourbon: Can be replaced with rye whiskey for a spicier flavor.
- Sweet vermouth: Try using dry vermouth for a less sweet taste.
- Bitters: Experiment with different types of bitters for unique flavors.
Makers Manhattan Variations
Perfect Manhattan
- Ingredients: Equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.
- Recipe: Mix bourbon, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and bitters; stir and strain.
Rob Roy
- Ingredients: Scotch whisky instead of bourbon.
- Recipe: Mix scotch, sweet vermouth, and bitters; stir and strain.
Black Manhattan
- Ingredients: Replace sweet vermouth with Averna Amaro.
- Recipe: Mix bourbon, Averna Amaro, and bitters; stir and strain.
For a Virgin Makers Manhattan, simply replace the bourbon with apple cider and use a splash of pomegranate juice instead of sweet vermouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Makers Manhattan different from a regular Manhattan?
A Makers Manhattan specifically uses Maker’s Mark bourbon, which adds a distinct flavor profile compared to other bourbons or rye whiskies.
Can I use a different type of whiskey?
Absolutely! You can use rye whiskey, scotch, or even a different brand of bourbon to create different variations.
Why is the drink stirred and not shaken?
Stirring keeps the drink clear and prevents too much dilution, which maintains the cocktail’s rich flavor.
What type of bitters should I use?
Angostura bitters are the classic choice, but you can experiment with other types like orange or chocolate bitters for unique twists.
Can I make a Makers Manhattan in advance?
Yes, you can mix and chill the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add ice and stir just before serving to ensure optimal flavor.
How should I store leftover Makers Manhattan?
Store any leftover cocktail in a sealed container in the refrigerator and consume it within a day for the best taste.
Enjoy crafting and sipping your Makers Manhattan!
