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Sugar Lounge - San Francisco

The Manhattan Recipe

History, Recipe, and More Than a Couple of Versions

The Manhattan cocktail is a classic American drink with a rich history. Its exact origins are somewhat debated, but it is generally believed to have been created in New York City in the late 19th century. The name “Manhattan” is thought to be a reference to the borough of Manhattan, where the drink was first popularized. One popular legend suggests that the Manhattan was invented in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club, a prestigious social club in New York City. According to this story, a group of friends challenged each other to create a new cocktail using rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The winning recipe became known as the Manhattan.

The Classic Manhattan is a Masterpiece

The classic Manhattan is a simple yet elegant cocktail that has stood the test of time. It’s universally loved, and most have forgotten that it started with Rye. These days, bourbon is a more common choice as the main ingredient.

Classic Manhattan Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces rye or bourbon whiskey
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth
  • 2-4 dashes Angostura bitters
  • A maraschino cherry for garnish
Recommended bourbon and whiskey:

Steps

  • Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  • Add the rye or bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
  • Stir well until chilled.
  • Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Other Versions

While the classic Manhattan is a beloved recipe, there are many variations that have emerged over the years. Some of the most popular include:

Rob Roy

A variation that uses Scotch whisky instead of rye whiskey.

Perfect Manhattan

A Manhattan that uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.

Brandy Manhattan

A Manhattan made with brandy. Blechh!! But what do we know?

The Boulevardier

A Manhattan with Campari substituted for the Angostura bitters.

Smoky Manhattan

A Manhattan with a smoky flavor, using mezcal or peated Scotch.

The Manhattan is a versatile drink that is easy to customize to suit individual preferences. Whether you prefer the classic rye version or add bacon and maple syrup for a more objectionable twist, the Manhattan is easily satisfying and somewhat sophisticated.

Sugar Lounge Signature Hayes Valley Manhattan

Sugar Lounge Signature Cocktail - Hayes Valley Manhattan

Hayes Valley Manhattan Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Tin Cup Whiskey
  • 1 ounce Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth
  • 2-4 dashes of Angostura Bitters
  • Orange Peel

Steps

  • Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  • Add the Tin Cup Whiskey whiskey, Carpano Antica sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
  • Stir well until chilled.
  • Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Garnish with a orange peel.
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