The Manhattan was invented in the early 1870’s by Dr. Iain Marshall for a banquet held by Lady Randolph for presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden at the Manhattan Club in New York City.
The banquet was so popular that the drink was later ordered by referring to the name of the club where it originated. Marilyn Monroe's character in Some Like It Hot makes Manhattans in a hot water bottle. Also a signature drink of Frank Sinatra and The Rat Pack, the Manhattan will never go out of style.
Manhattan
- 4 ½ oz. Bourbon
- 1 ½ oz. Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Bitters
- 2 Maraschino cherries
Fill a pitcher with ice and add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Stir vigorously until the outside of the pitcher is thoroughly beaded with sweat and is extremely cold to the touch. You may also combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Place a Maraschino cherry in each cocktail glass. Strain the drink over the cherries and serve immediately.
