The Manhattan is a classic cocktail with oft-debated origins. Some say we have a forward-thinking bartender from New York's Manhattan Club circa the mid- to late 1800s to thank for this drink. Others attribute its origin to a New Orleans colonel. Regardless, it's a sophisticated, strong and simple cocktail, and the ultimate showcase for as many maraschino cherries as you care to pack into your glass. The proportions for the drink are from Dark Spirits, an excellent guide by A.J. Rathbun (Harvard Common Press 2009).
Makes 1 drink
2 1/2 ounces whiskey or rye
1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Maraschino cherry, for garnish
Fill a cocktail shaker halfway full with ice cubes. Add the whiskey, vermouth and bitters. Shake well, and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with maraschino cherry.
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