The garnish for a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned is indeed quite different, adding a unique touch to each cocktail. Let's delve into the specifics of each garnish and how it complements the respective drink.
1. Old Fashioned Garnish: Orange Peel
The Old Fashioned, a classic cocktail dating back to the early 19th century, is traditionally garnished with an orange peel. This seemingly simple addition plays a significant role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the drink.
When preparing an Old Fashioned, you typically muddle a sugar cube with bitters, add whiskey (usually bourbon or rye), and stir it with ice. The orange peel is then expressed over the drink, releasing its essential oils, and is placed inside the glass. As you sip your Old Fashioned, the citrusy aroma from the peel subtly infuses into the cocktail, creating a delightful sensory experience.
The orange peel not only imparts a refreshing scent but also contributes a touch of citrus flavor to the drink. The oils from the peel add a zesty brightness that complements the rich, caramel notes of the whiskey. As you enjoy your Old Fashioned, the flavors gradually evolve, with the subtle citrus essence becoming more pronounced towards the end, adding a delightful twist to the overall taste.
2. Manhattan Garnish: Brandied Cherry
The Manhattan, another iconic cocktail, has its own unique garnish — a brandied cherry. Unlike the orange peel, which remains in the Old Fashioned throughout the drinking experience, the brandied cherry in a Manhattan serves as a delightful finishing touch.
Traditionally, a Manhattan is made by combining whiskey (typically rye), sweet vermouth, and bitters. The mixture is then stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass. Once the cocktail is poured, a single brandied cherry is added as a garnish, usually skewered on a cocktail pick.
The brandied cherry, soaked in a syrupy mixture of brandy and sugar, adds a burst of sweetness to the Manhattan. Its rich, fruity flavor beautifully contrasts with the robustness of the whiskey and the herbaceous notes of the vermouth. As you near the end of your Manhattan, the brandied cherry awaits, providing a final burst of luscious sweetness that complements the lingering warmth of the cocktail.
While both the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are classic cocktails, their garnishes play distinct roles in enhancing the overall drinking experience. The orange peel in the Old Fashioned infuses the drink with a subtle citrus aroma and flavor, evolving throughout the sipping process. On the other hand, the brandied cherry in the Manhattan adds a sweet, fruity element that serves as a delightful finale to the cocktail. So, whether you prefer the citrusy twist of an Old Fashioned or the luscious sweetness of a Manhattan, the garnish plays a vital role in elevating the flavor profile of each drink.