Manhattan Cocktail: History, Variations, and The Debate You Didn’t Know

Welcome to the Cheers to That! Podcast
Brought to you by DrinkLab.org, where your next favorite cocktail is waiting. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of an iconic drink that’s been around for over a century—the Manhattan. But, we’re going way beyond the basic recipe. Think you know the Manhattan? Think again.

The Manhattan’s Mysterious Beginnings

Where did this cocktail actually come from? Some say it was created at the prestigious Manhattan Club in New York City for a party hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, Winston’s mother. But here’s where it gets interesting—another version claims it originated at a bar run by a bartender named Black in Manhattan’s Financial District. So, who’s telling the truth? Well, that’s a secret ingredient we may never fully uncover.

But isn’t that little bit of mystery part of the fun? Knowing that when you order a Manhattan, you’re tapping into more than just a recipe—you’re sipping on history.

Why Is the Manhattan So Popular?

Here’s the thing: ordering a Manhattan is more than just ordering a drink. It’s like tapping into a vibe, a taste of elegance that’s been passed down for generations. Picture this—the 1880s, gaslight on cobblestone streets, and you’re sitting in a dimly lit bar with a cocktail that’s stood the test of time. That’s the kind of drink we’re talking about.

And no matter where you stand on the Rye vs. Bourbon debate, one thing’s clear: the whiskey is the star of the show. Whether you like your Manhattan with a spicy kick from rye or a smoother sip from bourbon, the rest is there to complement and elevate the experience.

The Recipe That’s Stirred (Not Shaken)

So what’s in a Manhattan? It’s a simple yet perfectly balanced mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of bitters, all garnished with a cherry. But here’s a key detail—stir, don’t shake. Why? Shaking waters it down and makes it cloudy. Stirring preserves those bold flavors and keeps it crisp.

Pro tip: Don’t skimp on the vermouth. A high-quality vermouth can take your Manhattan from average to extraordinary.

The Variations You Need to Know About

Think the classic Manhattan is where it ends? Think again. The Manhattan has inspired so many riffs that it’s basically a cocktail chameleon. Ever tried the Bobby Burns? It swaps out whiskey for Scotch and adds Benedictine for an herbal twist. Or how about the Perfect Manhattan, with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth?

These aren’t just variations—they’re flavor adventures waiting to happen. Each version tells its own story and shows how this drink has adapted over time.

Unforgettable Moments with the Manhattan

Of course, we couldn’t talk about the Manhattan without sharing a few stories. One of our favorite moments involves Sophie, who once famously ordered a Manhattan with a twist of lemon instead of a cherry—cue cocktail chaos! But the best part? She doubled down on her mistake, gave the whole bar a lesson in drinking like a New Yorker, and even declared herself the Statue of Liberty by the end of the night.

The Manhattan isn’t just a drink—it’s a conversation starter, a mood-setter, and sometimes, the reason behind unforgettable moments.

Manhattan’s Lasting Influence

You’ve probably seen a Manhattan in more places than you think—movies, books, TV shows. It’s a go-to drink for characters in glamorous, sophisticated settings, and for good reason. There’s just something about it that adds a sense of occasion.

And it doesn’t stop at the screen. The Manhattan’s influence can be traced back to so many other iconic cocktails, like the Negroni or the Old Fashioned. It’s a blueprint for balance, with its mix of sweetness, bitterness, and spirit-forward base inspiring generations of drinks.

Cheers to That!

So, what’s the secret to the Manhattan’s staying power? It’s a blend of history, flavor, and a little bit of Mystique. Next time you’re sipping one, just remember—you’re enjoying more than just a drink. You’re experiencing a piece of cocktail culture that’s been shaken (or rather, stirred) through the ages.