A Dry Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed by many for decades. It is a lighter, more refreshing version of the original Manhattan, with a focus on the spicy notes of a good rye whiskey. In this article, we will explore the history of the Dry Manhattan, the ingredients needed to make it, and some tips on how to make the perfect Dry Manhattan.
History of the Dry Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail is said to have been invented in the late 1800s at the Manhattan Club in New York City. Traditionally made with sweet vermouth, the Manhattan quickly became a popular cocktail across the United States. Over time, bartenders started experimenting with different variations of the cocktail, including the Dry Manhattan.
The Dry Manhattan first appeared in cocktail books in the 1930s and quickly gained popularity. Instead of using sweet vermouth, bartenders started using dry vermouth to give the cocktail a lighter, more refreshing taste. Today, the Dry Manhattan is a popular cocktail served in bars around the world.
Ingredients
To make a Dry Manhattan, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 oz. rye whiskey
– 1 oz. dry vermouth
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Lemon twist or cherry (for garnish)
When it coes to choosing the right whiskey for your Dry Manhattan, rye whiskey is the traditional choice. However, you can also use bourbon, blended whiskey, Canadian whisky, or Tennessee whiskey. The key is to choose a whiskey that is bold and spicy enough to stand up to the dry vermouth.
Tips for Making the Perfect Dry Manhattan
Making the perfect Dry Manhattan takes a little bit of practice, but with the right ingredients and technique, you can create a cocktail that is both balanced and refreshing. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
– Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great Dry Manhattan is to use high-quality ingredients. Choose a good rye whiskey and a dry vermouth that you enjoy drinking on its own.
– Stir, don't shake: Unlike the James Bond martini, a Manhattan should be stirred, not shaken. Stirring gently chills the cocktail without diluting it too much.
– Use a chilled glass: To keep your Dry Manhattan cold, use a chilled glass. You can chill your glass by filling it with ice and water while you prepare the cocktail.
– Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry: For a classic garnish, add a lemon twist or cherry to your Dry Manhattan. This not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of sweetness to the cocktail.
In Conclusion
A Dry Manhattan is a classic cocktail that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a focus on the spicy notes of a good rye whiskey and the lightness of dry vermouth, it is a refreshing take on the original Manhattan. With the right ingredients and technique, you can create a cocktail that is both balanced and delicious. So, the next time you're in the mood for a cocktail, give the Dry Manhattan a try!
Comparing the Dry and Sweet Manhattan Cocktails
A Manhattan is a classic cocktail made with whiskey (usually rye or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and bitters. The difference btween a dry Manhattan and a sweet Manhattan lies in the type of vermouth used.
Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine that has been sweetened with sugar and flavored with herbs and spices. It adds a rich, sweet, and slightly fruity flavor to the cocktail. A sweet Manhattan is made with sweet vermouth in a ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 (whiskey to vermouth).
On the other hand, dry vermouth is a fortified wine that has been flavored with herbs and spices but is not sweetened. It has a more herbal and slightly bitter taste than sweet vermouth. A dry Manhattan, as the name suggests, is made with dry vermouth in a ratio of 2:1 or 3:1 (whiskey to vermouth).
A sweet Manhattan is made with sweet vermouth and a dry Manhattan is made with dry vermouth. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the flavors one wishes to highlight in the cocktail.
What Type of Vermouth is Used to Make a Manhattan?
A Manhattan cocktail is typically made with sweet vermouth, which is a fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals and sweetened with sugar. Dry vermouth, on the other hand, is a fortified wine that is flavored with herbs and spices but is not sweetened. While some bartenders may choose to use dry vermouth in place of sweet vermouth in a Manhattan, this would result in a different flavor profile for the cocktail. Therefore, if you are looking to make a classic Manhattan, it is recommended to use sweet vermouth.
What Is the Name of a Manhattan Cocktail Without Vermouth?
A Manhattan without vermouth is typically referred to as a “dry Manhattan.” This version of the classic cocktail replaces the sweet vermouth with a small amount of dry vermouth or skips it entirely, resulting in a drier flavor profile. Some variations of the dry Manhattan also call for a splash of citrus juice or orange bitters to add complexity to the drink. the absence of vermouth in a Manhattan changes the balance of flavors and can result in a more intense whiskey-forward cocktail.
Conclusion
A Dry Manhattan is a classic cocktail that is perfect for tose who prefer a lighter, more refreshing version of the traditional Manhattan. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink that highlights the spicy notes of a good rye whiskey, with the dry vermouth adding a subtle complexity to the overall flavor profile. While a Perfect Manhattan may appeal to those who enjoy a balance of sweet and dry flavors, the Dry Manhattan is an excellent choice for those who want to focus on the whiskey and the bitters. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail that's easy to make, give the Dry Manhattan a try – you won't be disappointed!
