How to Make a Manhattan | a simple classic cocktail recipe

In this video I teach you my manhattan recipe! I discuss some manhattan variations as well as my personal story of how I learned about the "perfect" manhattan. The base spirit I'm using is a 100 proof rye whiskey - I like the higher proof whiskey because I find it holds up to the richness of the sweet vermouth. I share my manhattan story at the end of the video, let me know if you have your own! Cheers!
Grab the bottles I use here! 👉 bit.ly/AndersBottleCollection
Patreon: / anderserickson
TIME STAMPS
Intro: 0:00
The Booze: 1:22
The Recipe: 2:40
Sips: 4:22
Sign Off: 5:49
THE RECIPE
2 oz. (60 ml) Rittenhouse 100 proof Rye Whiskey
1 oz. (30 ml) Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Cherries for garnish
THE TOOLS
My workhorse double jigger: amzn.to/3lmmKrK
My favorite mixing glass: amzn.to/46KrrTX
Bar spoon: amzn.to/3wkkDhg
Julep strainer: amzn.to/3mymEyA
Rubber bar mat (6"x12"): amzn.to/3h2IJER
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Co-produced with the lovely Azusa "Az" Inaba 🎥 🎨

[@scruffylookinlo6241]

Bought a bottle of Rittenhouse 100 because of this video. Started stirring my cocktails longer because of this video. Life is better because of this channel.

[@itsdewic]

I now love you for sharing my love for anders

[@tomaszgajownik9939]

Me too👍

[@evanj4788]

I too just bought a bottle of Rittenhouse and am stiring longer

[@GhostDad1]

Bottled in bond! Such a good value rye too

[@BiteSizeMediaLLC]

Best way to remember, 212 is the Manhattan area code. 2oz Rye, 1oz Sweet Vermouth, 2 dashes bitters.

[@joelyeast4507]

I expected the Perfect Manhattan story to end with, "well, you don't need to be a jerk about it, dad."

[@AndersErickson]

Haha... That's an even better ending! 😂

[@staciehaneline9533]

​@@AndersEricksonYour channel is better. 😉

[@Coraxery]

Wow 20 years later and you still remember that guy, i kinda was hoping he saw this vid and commented on here that it's still not perfect 😂 cheers. thanks for all the great videos

[@MothRatz]

Your Perfect Manhattan story reminds me of the first time I ordered a burger for myself as a child and the server asked how I would like it cooked. I didn't know what she meant so she said "you know, like well done, or..." and I ordered it well done. As in gee, I guess I have to ask them specifically to do a good job making my burger

[@mistercarousel1872]

This is a good one because i feel like i had the exact same reaction with my first steak haha Edit: at least with a burger well done is alright, with steak, not so much imho

[@trdsf]

My favorite variation on the manhattan is 1oz each rye, vodka and sweet vermouth, discovered by accident when I was down to my last ounce of rye (Rittenhouse, of course -- man, that's good stuff). I call it a 'Moscow on the Hudson', and the dilution of rye with vodka really lets the vermouth and bitters come out and play some more.

[@tommymccartney8891]

According to the clock he stirred it for about 15 mins

[@karlstriepe8050]

Good eye! French voice: "15 minutes later ..."

[@realtoast7036]

Ha! Made me look

[@lilianmaillot9449]

Quinze minutes plus tard...

[@staciehaneline9533]

I'm a new bartender. I watched this video before I started getting shifts, but I forgot that I was supposed to add the ice last. 😬 I got schooled by the guest. 😅 Today I explained to my boss that technically the guest was correct and I know exactly what to do next time. Your videos are very helpful. I appreciate you.

[@richdelgado3405]

5:43 I was thoroughly expecting you to say "And the name of that man? Manhattan. Al Manhattan. The creator of the Manhattan cocktail."

[@kevinob1983]

A good way to explain the ingredients and the portions is the Manhattan area code, 212. 2 parts whiskey, 1 part sweet vermouth and 2 dashes of bitters.

[@JonJonello]

Duuuuuuude thank you for this channel and for this video, I went to my local Bevmo tonight, bought the exact same spirits and made this Manhattan, and I cried tears with every sip, so good! Thank you! I say we add your face to Mt. Rushmore, rewrite the constitution, create a new Statue of Libationy and sing the pledge of Anders allegiance in our schools, “oh say can you see, the Manhattan of anders is flowing..” thanks for being a patriot and saving our lives with this delicious cocktail, yours truly - Jonathan

[@lrphd8536]

Who is this silver fox making such wonderful libations?! Intriguing. And the editing is ah-mah-zing. Cheers!

[@WhiskeySugarBitters]

The editing IS amazing! I need some help with that too :)

[@steverochon1620]

I really like your videos. I’ve watched like 8-10 in the last few days and learned from each one of them. I always thought the Manhattan had the vermouth floated atop the whisky….lesson learned! My parents generally had one cocktail at Christmas, one at Thanksgiving, and maybe one at Easter dinner. They’d always ask me for a “light” southern comfort Manhattan, which meant half a shot of SC and an equal amount of water….then the floated vermouth. Now that they’re both gone, I make one of these drinks in their honor at each holiday dinner and let it sit untouched on a table somewhere, which it often did when they were alive as well. Thanks for the work you’re putting out there for us. I enjoy it immensely.

[@Ms.Hopeful]

I loved hearing about your grandparents 💕

[@misty30315]

My parents (mostly my Dad), my brothers, and I drink Manhattans on holidays and on many of the other occasions when we get together. My Dad adopted the habit from my Mom's Dad years ago. My brothers and I are thankful to have our parents still with us. We will carry on the tradition.

[@DreamzoOfficial]

P

[@livenhfree]

Thanks for the nice story. The same was true of my parents. A Manhattan on Christmas Eve.

[@michaeljdauben]

I've recently become fond of the "employees only" Manhattan, which adds a little Grand Marnier. Delicious!

[@mattthemaker]

And…. Now I have a drinking problem. Well done

[@Sorroris]

I was dying at your story. Classic bar goers

[@motorv8N]

The entertainment value of your channel is off the charts, Anders. You’re a master craftsman and a storyteller and even though a rye and ginger is and forever will be about the limit of my skills, I’m really enjoying your sessions.

[@rbmoose22]

I asked bartender for a Manhattan with Rye and she suggested I try a Boulevardier cocktail. Very good too !

[@dimitarapostolov9788]

After almost a year since I made my first Manhattan, I finally acquired a bottle of Cocchi di Torino, just shortly after I got my first bottle of Rittenhouse Rye! So FINALLY I was able to make this exact version of the Manhattan, with 3 Luxardo cherries... So far it is THE best one I've had, loved how bold & dramatic the flavor of this particular combo is, and I cannot wait to try Cocchi in my other usual favorites (Negroni, Boulevardier, Martinez). Love this recipe and I will definitely make it for my friends this weekend!

[@Splootmon]

I need to make this. TO THE BAR!

[@BR279]

maraschino cherry is a must for me

[@isabellaisa6750]

I love watching this guy making drinks, he is funny and helps you understand about how drinks are made...

[@cymbelinebritain6799]

Those cherries look delectable (oh, so does the Manhattan 😋)

[@jamesanthony2775]

You have an awesome personality man. Pleasure to watch

[@staceyarbour886]

You’re super fun. Thanks for taking the ego out of tending bar.

[@christinecamley]

Such a spectacular cocktail! So well prepared!

[@TheSometimesWhy]

Anders, as a rank amateur tender of the bar, you videos stand out for their insight, as well as the Spirit in which they are delivered. Thank you for bringing your passion--it's infectious!

[@murallod]

Had a client that loved his perfect Manhattan. Truly a kind gentleman and was always a pleasure to have him in the bar.

[@Cale_E]

Loved the story at the end. So funny!

[@MrChickster12]

I know to make a Manhattan and don’t even like them but I am still watching this video…… that’s a sign of a good video

[@brianbrettel567]

Great cocktail! Thanks Anders! Love your channel and all of your content

[@guyrich6467]

I like how you stir with the spoon upside down

[@catalog2345]

Thanks for the education. I appreciate what you do for us newbies.

[@caroltarantino837]

What I really like are the very practical tips given along each journey. Thanks so much. Cheers!

[@Flintster56]

Sir. I could watch you make cocktails all day. Very entertaining. loved the end with the cherries!

[@4rounder312]

great vids AE !! never go wrong with a Manhattan in a cold climate. The "Chicago trifecta" Manhattan, Old Fashion & Rusty Nail....

[@wmbenson68]

Absolutely one of my all time favorites . . . and the coolest cocktail name ever.

[@joeitthiphon8836]

Really love your Story Ander

[@jamedb89]

Tried the original and perfect side by side, and the perfect wins hands down for me. Feels brighter and lighter. Much more refreshing drink. I'm so glad I found this channel.

[@LikeOnATree]

Loved the backstory about the Perfect Manhattan!

[@jonmolnar5440]

I made my first Manhattan tonight with the video! Thank you Anders for showing me. And thank you Az for filming.😊

[@brucearant7793]

Anders.... I recently discovered you, and have now watched several of your videos...and I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your information, humor and insights about cocktails. Manhattans (rye) were my first introduction to cocktails, and are still my go-to cocktail. Anyway...thanks!

[@silvertree2189]

Great videos. I like how you bring up difficult customers and want to improve. Thanks for being honest and we love your awesome, genuine and kind approach. We all can learn from you in 2022!

[@chrisb5986]

I didn't know about "perfect" Manhattans. Now I do. Thanks.

[@SudirmanMendrofa]

Thank you for your tips creat and story of Classic cocktail and Perfect classic cocktail.

[@geraldkummeneker8338]

I like the way you present all those cocktails. I like your humor....Keeper going

[@terrymiller111]

You and Greg (How to Drink), along with a few others, have finally convinced me to up my game. Thanks.

[@derektaylor3888]

I connected with the finale of this video because I was tending in a fine French dining place whilst still in my first year of the trade and another tender came in and asked for a perfect Manhattan and I said; “I’ll make the best one I know how to” and she then explained what she meant. Ya know, the perfect Manhattan. I was grateful that she schooled me before I became the fool. Kudos to Miss Eva.

[@Gallasl666]

My favorite cocktail. Thanks Dad

[@roybackhouse117]

That's a great story at the end. Perfect!

[@andrewstevenson1955]

Thank you Anders for making me my favourite Classic Cocktail 🍸 I love ❤️ the Manhattan.

[@dekaasploeg]

Hi Anders, just to let you know that ever I discovered this channel my quality of life has improved dramatically. Thoroughly enjoy your recipes and this cocktail especially has stolen my heart. I have it with 6cl Rittenhouse (2 ounces) and 1 ounce Vermouth, four shots of bitters and and orange oil + peel garnish. Thanks and keep it up!

[@markwoldin162]

Anders, I gotta say, I am inpatient person but watching you make a drink is a pleasure, relaxing and informative.

[@michaeldrapes8446]

Anders, I love your videos. This was the first one I watched. My parents were from Stevens Point, WI. I grew up with perfect Brandy Manhattans and stories of supper clubs like the Sky Club and the Antlers. Your videos are a new and exciting, tinged with a touch of nostalgia. Keep up the great work.

[@mr.snicker-doodles7081]

My Dad's favorite drink!

[@Grammar_Officer]

"I didn't time this one either" As twenty minutes pass on the clock behind you 🤣

[@Babyhaswon]

Cute and can make a great drink! Bravo!

[@jenilsonferraz4154]

Always funny and on spot! 👍 Cheers!

[@Peter-ic1jo]

Anders you make my family’s life better. You make my life better. Cocktail hour has never been the same since I started watching your channel. CHEERS!!!

[@terryb3388]

The Manhattan, the King of Cocktails ... The Martini, the Queen of Cocktails

[@lwc2009]

my most favorite drink!! used to make my own with Makers but recently started using Bullit Rye... torn between the two... thanks for your mixology vids.... 'scribed...

[@llcoolmartine]

Since I'm a sweet-tooth I always add a teaspoon of maraschino cherry juice. Excellent stuff.

[@tannergrinzel1835]

That would be called a reverse Manhattan

[@6BURG9]

Don't have any rye in the house at the moment, so I made this with Bowmore 18. Sacrilege I know... but it was delicious! Probably the best Manhattan I've had thus far.

[@chrismarshall4486]

That’s funny. I was working my first job as a cook on a dinner train damn a long time ago! Before internet on your phone. Ha. They only served drinks straight. Didn’t have a true bartender. Someone wanted a cosmopolitan and nobody knew how to make one. I knew it had cranberry juice in it so I was like I’ll give it a shot. Made it and they loved it! I guess that started me off bartending on the side. Great videos love watching

[@hummmingbear]

Thank you. We made a DELICIOUS manhattan and it was so simple thanks to you. BLESS YOUR WHOLE LIFE ANDERS ERICKSON. EVERYTHING FOR YOU. I liked AND subscribed.

[@NathanHarrison7]

Can’t wait to go to Manhattan to have a Manhattan. Beautiful story at the end. Thank you for sharing that. In case you didn’t already realize it… that dude had 0 EQ and 0 self esteem.

[@anibalherrera6595]

Brother I'm a starting bartender, and your channel is gold. Thank you

[@Gearlube_chain_wax_solutions]

Always fun to watch

[@spiderz81]

I love the way you made that Manhattan..I like an orange twist with mine🍊

[@robertowsley4539]

Another great video. Thanks again. I think it's "perfect". And yes, I need three cherries too.

[@cmonkey63]

I'm a simple scotch on the rocks kind of guy, but recently found this channel. Your enthusiasm for the craft has inspired me enough, that I'm now off to learn how to make a rusty nail.

[@lyndao7356]

I’m going to make one and drink it all by myself. 🍸 Thank you, Anders

[@lrivera31]

Ugh I just found this channel! Amazing. Manhattans are so good.

[@snarkus]

Finally someone got the cherries right. 3 cherries is the right answer. Though I prefer 1/2 oz vermouth, as it's too sweet at 2:1.

[@bleedthefreak100]

Just made one of these with Jack Daniels Single Barrel Rye and it was delicious! Appreciate what you do man. Keep it up!

[@robsaxepga]

My godmother used to come visit for the weekend. My mother, who didn't really drink, and she would stay up all night chatting and smoking cigarettes, etc. My godmother would bring her Manhattan mixings. Jim Beam (ICK!) and Marichino cherries..😱 She'd have 5 or 6 of those without blinking an eye. I swore to myself I'd never do that..awful! Flash forward to today and I'm a Manhattan guy. I've got all the good makings and have learned to prepare it how I like it which is a little different than what you're saying in that, I add a little Luxardo cherry juice, just a touch, to the drink. Yum!! Great channel, Anders! Thank you!

[@Ghostrander]

That story at the end was so good

[@GrotrianSeiler]

Great story!

[@tinahardman1525]

Southern Confort, is cool to use too.

[@poforeman]

Anders I came across a Reddit conversation debating Manhattan versus Old-fashioned and rye versus bourbon yada yada yada. IMHO kind of a useless debate. But it made me come back to see how you made your “ideal“ Manhattan. And OMG, I was reminded why you are so damn freaking good and why so many people like you. You are so approachable and you make this seem so easy and unintimidating. That’s what sets you apart from so many other cocktail snob channels. Keep it up dude! You are truly the best!

[@Cremantus]

That is whiy classics are classics... thumbs up, well done.

[@waynelyles8053]

I learned something a while back from my bartender. I asked for suggestions on what I should order. I told the bartender that the Manhattan is too sweet for my taste. So, he suggested I try a Brooklyn. Almost the same recipe but it uses dry vermouth. I have fallen in love with this drink. It is now my go to when I go to the bar. P.S. The interesting part that he told me was they have a different rye based cocktail named for each of the boroughs in NYC.

[@nickschiavulli693]

Looks great cheers 🍻

[@lars591]

My old buddy Joe loved his Manhattans with Crown Royal, just a bit of the sweet and dry Vermuth . Of course what he was really going after was the CR.

[@benjaminbuchthal7703]

"let's get building" - I spot a verbal faux pas right there!! :)

[@daveski99x]

I learned this drink from a former brother in law, yeah, who tended bar. He did not use more expensive liquor but used VO and then perfect half sweet hald dry voumoth. Twist of lemon, no sweet cherries. It's great. L8ke to party with my ex brother in law, he was pretty cool.

[@mosin9105]

I just made a Manhattan. I didn’t have cherries, but I had an orange, so used orange peel. So good! I’m looking forward to getting cherries and trying it again! Thanks!!!

[@gregmarquez1099]

I had some Templeton Rye I followed your recipe and added a dash of Orange bitters and it came out pretty good. I bought some coupe glasses after I saw one of your videos 😊

[@sitori663]

Great channel. Subscribed!!!

[@davidheffron4481]

Great video, thanks! If you hold your mixing glass at the base, you should stir the ice until the base of the glass feels cold.

[@rossej56]

Perfect funny story at the end !!!

[@Soknet-Bartender]

I love this cocktail ♥️

[@LittleLouieLagazza]

The three-cherry moustache was BOSS. Major styley-points

[@SaintlyTargs]

oooh im gonna try with brandy

[@gavinj01]

Just found your channel. Awesome!!

[@Cocktailnyymi]

Just made it the other day with my friend; actually four versions (rye, bourbon, perfect & 12 Bottle Bar style). Forgot how good the rye one tasted!

[@rene_from_so_cal]

"It puts the lotion on its skin, or it gets the hose again" - you my friend, did not get the hose again with this one. Absolutely, delicious. Thank you!

[@inciteful]

lovely.

[@lukejackson1116]

This channel is literally the best - please never stop and please keep up the videos (I know this video is 2 years old, but it shows how much you love the craft with how many more videos you’ve made to educate!)

[@AndersErickson]

Thank you so much!

[@chasingneat]

Hmm, just made one and that was good!