Perfect Manhattan Recipe

Chill glass

Place a coupe or chilled cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes or fill with ice water while you build the drink to chill it thoroughly.

Build and stir

Fill a mixing glass or large mixing tin with plenty of ice. Add 2 oz rye whiskey, 0.5 oz sweet vermouth, 0.5 oz dry vermouth, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters. Using a bar spoon, stir gently but firmly for 30–45 seconds (about 20–30 full revolutions) until the outside of the mixing glass feels very cold and the liquid is well chilled and slightly diluted.

Prepare garnish

While stirring, take a fresh lemon and cut a 1½–2 inch strip of peel. Express the oils over the chilled glass by holding the peel skin-side down about 4–6 inches above the glass and giving it a firm twist so the oils spray onto the drink. Rub the rim of the glass lightly with the peel to impart aroma.

Strain and finish

Discard the ice water from the glass if used. Using a julep strainer or the built-in strainer of your mixing tin, double-strain the chilled cocktail into the chilled coupe or martini glass to remove any small ice shards.

Garnish and serve

Drop one Luxardo or maraschino cherry into the drink. Finish by placing the lemon twist on the rim or floating it on the surface. Serve immediately.