Wild Cherry ManhattanCocktail recipe
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Wild Cherry Manhattan is a Manhattan-style whiskey cocktail that leans into the drink’s naturally plush, after-dinner side. You’ll recognise the familiar template of whiskey and sweet vermouth, but here it’s nudged away from the classic’s bitters-and-cherry garnish territory and into a more overtly fruit-forward, dessert-leaning variation. Rather than claiming a fixed origin story, it reads like a modern twist designed for anyone who wants the Manhattan’s richness with a bigger cherry signature.
On the palate, bourbon brings vanilla-tinged warmth and a rounded sweetness that sets the base. Red vermouth adds a darker, winey sweetness and gentle herbal depth, giving structure and keeping the drink from tasting one-note. Maraschino cherry juice amplifies the cherry character, stitching the bourbon and vermouth together with a glossy, candied-fruit sweetness that lingers into the finish.
Serve it in a whisky glass when you’re in the mood for something slow-sipping and indulgent—ideal after dinner, on a cosy night in, or whenever you’d normally reach for a classic Manhattan but want it softer and more playful. It’s a great pick if you like whiskey cocktails that feel rich and approachable, with cherry taking centre stage.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Bourbon leads with warm vanilla and oak, cushioned by red vermouth’s dark, herbal sweetness, while maraschino cherry juice floods the mid-palate with sticky cherry candy and a faint almond-like note. It works if you want a dessert-leaning pour—the cherry juice amplifies the vermouth and softens the bourbon’s edges—but anyone craving a drier, sharper whiskey-and-vermouth balance may find it cloying.
Method
How to make a Wild Cherry Manhattan
- Bourbon 75ml, Red vermouth 30ml, Maraschino cherry juice 30ml
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- Add the whisky, sweet vermouth and cherry juice to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well
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- Strain into an old fashioned glass with ice
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- Garnish with maraschino cherries and serve
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FAQ's
Why is the Wild Cherry Manhattan shaken and not stirred?
The Wild Cherry Manhattan is shaken instead of stirred to ensure a thorough mixing of the maraschino cherry juice with the bourbon and red vermouth. Shaking introduces more air and dilution, which can help balance the sweetness of the maraschino cherry juice with the strength of the bourbon and the herbal qualities of the vermouth.
What garnishes work best with the Wild Cherry Manhattan?
A cherry, preferably a maraschino or a more gourmet variety like Luxardo, is a classic garnish that complements the cherry flavors in the cocktail. A small twist of orange or lemon peel can also add a fragrant citrus aroma that enhances the overall taste experience.
Can I use a different type of whiskey in a Wild Cherry Manhattan?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with another type of whiskey like rye if you prefer a spicier cocktail. Rye whiskey will give the Wild Cherry Manhattan a more pronounced bite and complexity, contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the maraschino cherry juice.
Is there a specific type of ice best suited for serving the Wild Cherry Manhattan?
Serving the Wild Cherry Manhattan over a large cube or sphere of ice is ideal. The larger surface area reduces dilution, keeping your cocktail cold and concentrated. Avoid crushed ice as it melts too quickly and can water down the flavors.
How does the alcohol content of a Wild Cherry Manhattan compare to a classic Manhattan?
A classic Manhattan typically has a slightly higher alcohol content due to its higher proportion of whiskey to vermouth. The Wild Cherry Manhattan has a unique addition of maraschino cherry juice, which slightly lowers its alcohol content in comparison, making it a milder version while still maintaining a robust flavor profile.
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