The Essentials of a Rich Cherry Manhattan
The Cherry Manhattan is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, adding a fruity sweetness to the bold whiskey flavors.
This elegant drink combines whiskey, vermouth, and cherry liqueur for a rich, complex taste.
• 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/2 oz cherry liqueur
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish
To make a Cherry Manhattan, you’ll combine the whiskey, vermouth, cherry liqueur, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.
Then, strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.
History of the Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan cocktail has been delighting drinkers for over 150 years.
It was first created in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club in New York City.
Legend has it that the drink was invented for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, Winston Churchill’s mother.
Though likely apocryphal, this story adds to the cocktail’s mystique.
The Manhattan quickly became popular in bars across New York and beyond.
Its simple yet sophisticated flavor profile made it a hit with both the upper class and working folks.
Over the years, bartenders have experimented with variations, but the classic recipe remains a favorite.
The Cherry Manhattan is one such variation that adds a fruity twist to the timeless cocktail.
Choosing Your Base: Rye vs Bourbon Whiskey
When making a Cherry Manhattan, you have a choice between rye and bourbon whiskey as your base spirit.
Each brings its own character to the drink.
Rye whiskey offers a spicier, drier profile with notes of pepper and grass.
It creates a cocktail with more bite and complexity.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is sweeter and smoother.
It has notes of vanilla and caramel that complement the cherry flavors nicely.
A bourbon-based Cherry Manhattan will be more approachable for those who prefer less spice in their drinks.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.
Try both versions to see which you enjoy more.
You might even find that you like different bases depending on your mood or the occasion.
The Role of Vermouth
Vermouth plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors of a Cherry Manhattan.
This fortified wine adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.
It softens the sharp edges of the whiskey while introducing herbal and slightly sweet notes.
In a Cherry Manhattan, sweet vermouth is typically used.
It complements the cherry flavors and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the strong whiskey.
The vermouth also brings aromatics to the drink, enhancing its overall bouquet.
When selecting vermouth for your Cherry Manhattan, quality matters.
A good vermouth can elevate your cocktail, while a poor one can detract from it.
Look for well-regarded brands and store your vermouth in the refrigerator after opening to maintain its flavor.
Sweet Vermouth vs Dry Vermouth vs Carpano Antica
In a Cherry Manhattan, sweet vermouth is the traditional choice.
However, you have other options to explore.
Dry vermouth can create a less sweet, more austere cocktail.
It pairs well with rye whiskey for a drier version of the drink.
Carpano Antica is a premium sweet vermouth that many bartenders swear by for Manhattans.
It has a rich, complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, herbs, and spices.
Using Carpano Antica in your Cherry Manhattan will result in a more luxurious, nuanced cocktail.
Experimenting with different vermouths can lead to exciting variations.
Try a 50/50 mix of sweet and dry vermouth for a perfect Cherry Manhattan.
Or use Carpano Antica for special occasions when you want to impress.
Each choice will create a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize your Cherry Manhattan to your taste preferences.