Cocktails Drink Difficulty: Easy

Classic 1870s Manhattan With Herbal Benefits

Rye whiskey, sweet Italian vermouth, Angostura aromatic bitters, and a brandied Luxardo cherry

Prep Time 3 mins
Calories 175 kcal
Yield 1 drink (serving)
Rating ★ 4.9 (100)
Classic 1870s Manhattan With Herbal Benefits Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Straight Rye Whiskey (Spicy, bold (100 proof preferred))
  • 1 oz Sweet Italian Vermouth (Carpano Antica) (Rich vanilla & botanical herb)
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters (Aromatic spice)
  • 1 cherry Luxardo Brandied Cherry (Garnish)
  • 1 peel Orange Twist (Optional express)
Recommended Glass: Chilled Coupe or Nick & Nora Glass

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters into a mixing glass filled with ice cubes.

  2. 2

    Stir with a barspoon for 30 seconds until ice cold and silky.

  3. 3

    Strain into a pre-chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

  4. 4

    Drop a Luxardo cherry into the center of the glass.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories 175
Carbs 12g
Sugar 9g
Protein 0.2g
Fat 0g
Sodium 5mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Classic 1870s Manhattan With Herbal Benefits ahead of time for a party or crowd?

Yes! You can batch all shelf-stable ingredients (spirits, syrups, juices, and cold brews) up to 24 hours in advance in a sealed glass bottle stored in the refrigerator. Do NOT add ice or carbonated club soda until immediately before serving. For carbonated or layered drinks, assemble individual servings fresh over ice to preserve sparkle and distinct visual layers.

What kind of ice should I use for Classic 1870s Manhattan With Herbal Benefits?

Use dense, clear ice cubes whenever possible. Cloudy home-freezer ice contains trapped oxygen and impurities that melt up to 40% faster, leading to over-diluted, watery drinks. For rocks drinks, a single large 2-inch clear cube provides optimal chilling with minimal surface-area melt. For tall highball drinks, fill the glass completely to the top with cold, dry cubes.

How can I balance the drink if it tastes too tart or too sweet?

The golden rule of mixology is the acid-sugar equilibrium. If the drink tastes too sharp or sour, add 1/4 oz (7.5 ml) of 1:1 simple syrup or agave nectar. If it tastes overly cloying or sweet, squeeze in an extra 1/4 oz of freshly pressed lemon or lime juice. Stir well and taste before serving.

What is the best glassware substitute if I do not have a Chilled Coupe or Nick & Nora Glass?

If you do not have a Chilled Coupe or Nick & Nora Glass, a standard 10–12 oz white wine glass or a heavy-base double rocks tumbler is the most versatile substitute. The tapered rim of a wine glass concentrates delicate aromatic bouquets directly to your nose as you sip.

Recipe developed and tested by Julian Vance, Master Mixologist. Published under our Editorial Guidelines.
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