The History of the Manhattan

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The history of the Manhattan cocktail is a good deal more complicated than most legends would have one believe. The most popular version of the story makes sense when one considers the fact that the drink is referred to as a Manhattan. Allegedly, an individual by the name of Doctor Iain Marshall invented the drink in New York City somewhere around the 1870s. Many versions of the story claim the drink was invented at the Manhattan Club.

TL;DR

• The Manhattan cocktail's origins are murky with tales involving Doctor Iain Marshall and Lady Randolph Churchill in the 1870s.
• An alternative story credits a bartender named Black in the 1860s as its creator.
• The classic recipe originally included Angostura bitters, Italian vermouth, and American whiskey.
• Today's Manhattans feature modern twists and enjoy global popularity.

The Origin Stories

The Manhattan Club Debacle

Considering that the story takes place in New York, the cocktail could have picked up its name from the geography alone. Popular historians claim that Marshall created the drink at a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, who was apparently honoring Democratic presidential contender Samuel J. Tilden. At the time, she was the mother of a particularly famous future Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. The banquet seems to have made the drink fashionable, and several important figures later asked about these so-called Manhattan cocktails. Many of them are said to have ordered the drink under this name. However, this story has a significant flaw: Lady Randolph Churchill was actually in France at the time and was pregnant.

An Alternative Tale

Another version of the story claims that the Manhattan was invented in the 1860s by a bartender named Black. Black was working at a bar on Broadway near Houston Street. This version of the story is less glamorous but provides a more plausible timeframe and location for the origin of the cocktail.

Other Theories

Despite these prominent tales, the exact origins of the Manhattan remain a bit murky. Over the years, other stories and claims have surfaced, but none have been officially verified. The allure of the Manhattan's mystery adds to its charm and sophistication. Even bartenders and historians are divided, making it one of the most debated cocktails in history.

The Evolution of the Recipe

At that point in time, the recipe for a Manhattan specified Angostura bitters, Italian vermouth, and American whiskey. Interestingly enough, there were already similar cocktail recipes served in the Manhattan area before this period. Over the years, the recipe has seen several variations. V. Elliot and P. Strong published a book in 1930 entitled Shake 'em Up!, which contains a recipe for a Manhattan but refers to it as a "Tennessee Cocktail." An even earlier publication by William Schmidt in 1891, The Flowing Bowl, actually called for a dash of absinthe and two dashes of gum. The drink was also mentioned in David Embury's famous 1948 text.

Prohibition and Beyond

The Prohibition Era in the United States brought a wave of changes to cocktail recipes, and the Manhattan was no exception. Bootleggers and speakeasies often had to make do with what was available, leading to creative substitutes and variations of the original Manhattan recipe. Post-Prohibition, the cocktail renaissance embraced classic cocktails like the Manhattan, solidifying its place in mixology lore.

The Spread of the Manhattan

Interestingly enough, the cocktail has gained a huge following outside the U.S. and the UK. For example, there's an island in Germany where many consider the Manhattan to be the drink of choice. According to local legend, many people from the island lived in Manhattan for some time during their trawling adventures on the high seas. They enjoyed the cocktail and brought it back to Föhr. On this European island, the Manhattan is mixed slightly differently. The recipe features one part vermouth to two parts whiskey, with the preferred mixture of vermouth being half red and half white. Bitters are dashed in, and it is served in a frigid manner. Some customers may even receive ice in their cocktail, which seems almost redundant.

The Manhattan in Pop Culture

The Manhattan has also made its mark in pop culture, often featured in movies, TV shows, and literature. Its portrayal as a drink of choice for sophisticated characters and affluent settings only adds to its allure. Whether it's the suave lead in a noir film or a glamorous figure in a novel, the Manhattan continues to symbolize elegance and urban sophistication.

Modern Interpretations

In today's cocktail culture, the Manhattan has been subject to many modern twists and interpretations. Bartenders experiment with different types of vermouths, bitters, and even whiskeys to put a new spin on the classic. Some opt for a more robust rye whiskey, while others may choose a smoother bourbon. The garnish can also vary, from the classic maraschino cherry to a twist of orange or lemon peel. Despite these variations, the essence of the Manhattan remains the same: a sophisticated, well-balanced drink that has stood the test of time.

New Age Garnishes

In recent years, garnish innovations have brought new dimensions to the traditional Manhattan. For instance, bartenders might use brandied cherries instead of maraschino cherries or incorporate a flamed orange peel for added aroma and flair. Such small touches can significantly enhance the drink's overall experience without deviating from its core identity.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Manhattan

Crafting the perfect Manhattan requires attention to detail and an understanding of its core elements. Let's break down the anatomy of this timeless cocktail:

The Whiskey

Traditionally, the Manhattan calls for rye whiskey, which provides a spicier, more robust flavor. However, bourbon can also be used for a smoother, sweeter profile. Some modern interpretations even combine both rye and bourbon for a balanced taste.

The Vermouth

Sweet red vermouth is the standard choice for a Manhattan, adding a layer of complexity with its herbal and slightly sweet notes. Some variations use a blend of sweet red and dry white vermouths to create a perfect balance.

The Bitters

Angostura bitters are the most commonly used in a Manhattan, offering a bitter and aromatic contrast to the sweetness of the vermouth and the richness of the whiskey. Some mixologists experiment with different types of bitters to add unique flavors.

The Garnish

The classic garnish for a Manhattan is a maraschino cherry, but some prefer a twist of citrus peel to add a bright note to the drink. The garnish not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the overall flavor profile.

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Manhattan

Recipe card

4.7 / 5

Cocktail glass

Base ingredient

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Red vermouth

Calories

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130 calories

Alcohol content

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30.4% | 2.28 units of alcohol ^*

Details

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Classic

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and sophistication, offering a harmonious blend of red vermouth, Angostura bitters, rye whiskey, and bourbon. Served in a chic cocktail glass, this drink is a staple of refined social gatherings and upscale bar menus. Originating from New York City in the late 19th century, the Manhattan cocktail boasts a rich history and a flavor profile that balances the sweetness of vermouth with the complexity of whiskey and the subtle spiciness of bitters. Its enduring popularity makes it an essential component of the cocktail aficionado's repertoire, perfect for those who appreciate a timeless drink with depth and character.

Ingredients

Red vermouth

Angostura Bitters

Rye Whiskey

Bourbon

Method

How to make a Manhattan

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes

Begin by stirring all the ingredients together with ice in a mixing glass to chill and dilute the mix, aiming for about 10-15 seconds of stirring

After stirring, strain the mixture into a glass that has been previously chilled in the freezer to ensure your drink stays colder longer

Makers mode

View the full recipe

In Conclusion

The Manhattan is more than just a cocktail; it is a piece of history in a glass. Its origins may be shrouded in mystery, but its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with a modern twist, the Manhattan remains a symbol of sophistication and craftsmanship in the world of mixology.

As we raise our glasses to this legendary cocktail, we celebrate not just its rich history but also the countless stories, innovations, and personal touches that have kept it alive through the decades. Cheers to the Manhattan!