A Brief History of the Manhattan Cocktail

The story of the Manhattan cocktail dates back to the 1880s at New York’s Manhattan Club. Some say Lady Randolph Churchill (mother of Winston Churchill) introduced the drink, while others believe it was created for a political gathering. Whatever the true origin, the Manhattan quickly became one of the most iconic bourbon cocktails in history—and it remains a classic today.

Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned: Cocktail Cousins

If you’re a fan of the Old Fashioned cocktail, you’ll love the Manhattan. They share similar ingredients—bourbon, bitters, and a cherry garnish—but vermouth gives the Manhattan a richer, smoother character. I like to think of the Manhattan as the Old Fashioned’s sophisticated New York cousin.

Bourbon or Rye: What’s Best in a Manhattan?

The great debate: rye whiskey vs. Kentucky bourbon. Purists lean rye, but many prefer the spice and depth bourbon brings. Personally, I love a spicier bourbon Manhattan. Whichever you choose, high-quality ingredients are the secret to a perfect cocktail.

Cocktail Cherries and Bitters: The Essential Finish

No Manhattan is complete without cocktail cherries. At In the Curious Kitchen, we make our signature Boozy Cocktail Cherries®—Italian dark cherries soaked in Kentucky bourbon. Paired with our Cherry or Orange Bitters, they turn an ordinary Manhattan into an unforgettable one.

Classic Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces bourbon (Buffalo Trace is my favorite) or rye (try New Riff Rye Whiskey)

• ½ ounce sweet vermouth

• 3 dashes Cherry or Orange Bitters

• Cocktail cherries for garnish (we recommend Boozy Cocktail Cherries®)

Instructions:

1. Add bourbon or rye, vermouth, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir (or shake, if you must!) until thoroughly chilled.

3. Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.

4. Garnish with one or two cocktail cherries.

Simple, elegant, and always satisfying.

Why the Manhattan Is a Timeless Cocktail

From its Gilded Age origins to modern speakeasies, the Manhattan cocktail recipe has never gone out of style. Whether you serve it at a cocktail party or sip it quietly at home, the combination of bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cocktail cherries makes it one of the most enduring cocktails ever created.

Cheers! 🥂

—M