A Bold Classic with a Bourbon Twist
Welcome back! Today, we’re diving into one of the most iconic drinks in cocktail history — the Manhattan. Simple, elegant, yet complex, this timeless whiskey cocktail is a must-know for bartenders and cocktail lovers alike.
The Classic
The Manhattan’s origin is hotly debated. Some say it was born at New York’s Manhattan Club in the 1870s, while others suggest it evolved organically. What’s certain is its influence: it paved the way for classics like the Martinez and eventually the Martini.
At its core, the Manhattan is a three-ingredient cocktail: whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters. But don’t be fooled by its simplicity — execution is everything. 🤌🏼
Your Choice of Whiskey: Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Traditionally, Manhattans are made with rye whiskey. But for a smoother, richer profile, I’m using Angel’s Envy Bourbon — an award-winning American whiskey known for its elegance and layered complexity.
Angel’s Envy is crafted in Louisville, Kentucky, under the guidance of Wes Henderson, son of late Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson. It finishes in port wine barrels, adding lush depth to the final product.
Mash Bill Breakdown
Angel’s Envy has a distinctive mash bill — 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley. That rye content is unusually high for a bourbon, giving the whiskey a dry, peppery kick that shines in stirred-down classics like the Manhattan.
Malted barley contributes texture and subtle cereal notes
Corn adds sweetness and roundness
Rye brings spice and dryness
What is a Mash Bill?
TIn simple terms, the mash bill is the grain recipe used in whiskey production. For bourbon, U.S. law requires:
- At least 51% corn
- Distillation within the U.S. (not just Kentucky!)
- Aged in new, charred American oak barrels
- No additives, flavorings, or colorings allowed
The mash bill defines a bourbon’s backbone — influencing aroma, mouthfeel, and overall character.
The Homemade Spiced Vermouth
To match Angel’s Envy’s layered profile, I created a homemade vermouth infusion. It enhances richness, deepens complexity, and adds a luxurious fruit-and-spice finish.
Spiced Vermouth Recipe:
- 500ml Martini Rosso
- 5 roasted cacao nibs
- 5 dried plums
- Zest of ½ an orange
- Seal in vacuum bag and sous vide at 55°C for 90 minutes
- Fine strain and chill
Bringing it all together:
- Prep Your Mixing Glass: Add 50ml of Angel’s Envy Bourbon. It’s rich, round profile brings notes of vanilla, ripe fig, and toasted oak.
- Add the Aromatic Core: Pour in 25ml of your homemade spiced vermouth. The infusion of cacao, dry plums, and orange zest adds complexity, fruity notes and an elegant bitterness that balances beautifully with bourbon adding length.
- Add Sweetness: Add 1 table spoon (~10ml) of Pedro Ximénez sherry. This fortified wine brings richness and adds texture.
- Bitters for Balance: Add 1-2 dashes of chocolate bitters to cut through the sweetness and lift the spice.
- Ice It Up: Add ice and stir for a well-chilled mix.
- Strain and Serve: Strain into a chilled coupette.
- Garnish and Enjoy: We garnished it with a dry plum for a cheeky bite and a fresh bay leaf, for a delicate herbal aroma and an elegant lift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a love letter to the Manhattan — familiar, yet reimagined. The high-rye bourbon brings structure and spice, while the spiced vermouth infusion adds luxurious layers of chocolate, fruit, and warmth. PX sherry rounds it all out with richness, making every sip bold and comforting.
Whether you’re behind the bar or making cocktails at home, this version feels elevated but approachable. It’s the perfect showcase of craftsmanship, balance, and the enduring beauty of a classic whiskey cocktail.
This drink is easy to replicate at home or behind the bar. Give it a go and let us know what you think!
Now it’s your turn to give this a try!
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Let us know what you’d like to see in the next recipe!
