Manhattan rye cocktail

The Manhattan rye is a classic American cocktail made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, served in a martini glass.

About this subject

The Manhattan rye is a historic variation of the Manhattan cocktail, which originated at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the late 19th century, likely in 1874 for a banquet honoring Governor Samuel J. Tilden. The original recipe calls for rye whiskey, sweet Italian vermouth, and Angostura bitters, producing a drier, spicier flavor compared to the bourbon-based Manhattan. Rye was the dominant whiskey in the United States before Prohibition, but its production plummeted in the 20th century and has only recently seen a revival, making the Manhattan rye a choice for purists seeking authenticity.

The traditional preparation follows a ratio of two parts rye to one part sweet vermouth, with a few dashes of Angostura bitters. The mixture is stirred with ice and strained into a chilled martini glass, garnished with a maraschino cherry. Variations include the Perfect Manhattan, which uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, and the Dry Manhattan, which replaces sweet vermouth with dry vermouth. This cocktail is one of the five classics recognized by the International Bartenders Association (IBA) and frequently appears in films, television series, and literature, embodying the sophistication of the Jazz Age and speakeasy culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Manhattan rye and a bourbon Manhattan?

A Manhattan rye uses rye whiskey, which gives a drier, spicier, and slightly peppery flavor. A bourbon Manhattan is sweeter and fuller-bodied due to bourbon's sweeter profile.

What is the origin of the Manhattan cocktail?

The Manhattan was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City, likely in 1874, for a banquet honoring Governor Samuel J. Tilden. The recipe is attributed to the club's bartender, though its origin is disputed.

What are the ingredients of a Manhattan rye?

The classic ingredients are: rye whiskey, sweet Italian vermouth (such as Martini Rosso or Carpano Antica), Angostura bitters, and a maraschino cherry for garnish.