Manhattan SweetCocktail recipe
Rating
The Manhattan Sweet is a classic cocktail that originated in the late 1800s in New York City. This sophisticated drink consists of a perfect balance between sweet and bitter.
The red vermouth, with its notes of herbs and spices, provides a rich and velvety sweetness while the dash of Angostura Bitters adds a complex bitter undertone. The star ingredient of this cocktail is the robust bourbon, giving it a strong and smoky flavor.
The Manhattan Sweet is the perfect blend of sweet and bitter, making it a timeless and elegant choice for any cocktail lover.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Manhattan Sweet eloquently marries the deep, smoky notes of bourbon with the sweet vermouth and a hint of Angostura bitters adding complexity. This cocktail is a robust yet smooth experience, making it a timeless choice for lovers of richer, nuanced drinks.
Method
How to make a Manhattan Sweet
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- Fill a mixing glass with ice to chill the ingredients evenly
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- Pour in 60ml of Bourbon and 30ml of red (sweet) vermouth
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- Add a dash of Angostura bitters—just enough to add complexity without overpowering
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- Stir gently for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled and diluted
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- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass
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- Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel, if desired
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- Serve immediately and enjoy this classic, spirit-forward cocktail
Power tips
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Find out more- Stir the cocktail with ice instead of shaking it to enhance the silky mouthfeel and keep the ingredients well-integrated and clear, rather than cloudy.
- Try aging a batch of this cocktail in a small oak barrel for a few days to add depth and complexity through subtle wood and vanilla notes.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
What's the origin of the Manhattan Sweet cocktail?
The Manhattan Sweet is a variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail, believed to have been created in the late 19th century at the Manhattan Club in New York City. The traditional Manhattan cocktail's sweet version uses sweet (red) vermouth in place of dry vermouth, catering to those preferring a sweeter profile.
What is the recommended technique for preparing a Manhattan Sweet?
The ideal preparation technique for a Manhattan Sweet involves chilling a cocktail glass, then stirring the bourbon, red vermouth, and a dash of Angostura Bitters with ice in a mixing glass. Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass. Unlike a Martini, it’s stirred to preserve the silky texture of the vermouth.
How should you garnish a Manhattan Sweet?
A Manhattan Sweet is traditionally garnished with a maraschino cherry. For an added twist, a small twist of orange peel can also be used to accentuate the drink's citrus notes.
Can you substitute bourbon in a Manhattan Sweet? If so, with what?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon in a Manhattan Sweet, typically with rye whiskey. Rye whiskey will give the cocktail a spicier, more robust flavor compared to bourbon's sweetness and smoothness.
What is the best way to serve a Manhattan Sweet?
A Manhattan Sweet is best served in a chilled cocktail glass. To enhance the experience, make sure the glass is pre-chilled in the freezer for a few minutes before serving. This cocktail benefits from being served cold to elevate its flavors and provide a crisp taste.
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Comments
Just tried this, and it was smooth and well-balanced! I'd recommend adding a sprig of rosemary or thyme for a fresh aromatic twist. Alternatively, swapping red vermouth for an equal amount of cherry-infused vermouth could add an interesting fruity note. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!
Happy Birthday Deziree Auman Turning 16 Years Old Child
8:03PM July/6/2025
Happy Fruity Birthday Dezi 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
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