The Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are both classic cocktails that are steeped in history and have their own distinct flavors. While they share some similarities, there are key differences that set them apart from each other.
1. Whiskey: Both cocktails are traditionally made with whiskey, but the type of whiskey used differs. The Old Fashioned can be made with either bourbon or rye whiskey, allowing for some variation in flavor profile. On the other hand, the Manhattan is traditionally made with rye whiskey, which gives it a spicier and more robust taste. However, bourbon can also be used in a Manhattan for a slightly sweeter and smoother profile.
2. Sweetness: The sweetness in these cocktails is achieved differently. In an Old Fashioned, sugar is muddled with bitters to create a sweet and bitter flavor combination. This allows for more control over the sweetness level, as you can adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. In contrast, the Manhattan substitutes the sugar with sweet vermouth. The sweet vermouth adds a rich and sweet flavor to the drink, balancing out the spiciness of the rye whiskey.
3. Vermouth: Another key difference between the two cocktails lies in the vermouth used. In a traditional Manhattan, sweet vermouth is used exclusively. Sweet vermouth has a richer and more full-bodied flavor, complementing the rye whiskey. However, in a Perfect Manhattan, the sweet vermouth is split into equal portions of sweet and dry vermouths. The addition of dry vermouth adds a hint of herbal and floral notes, creating a more complex and well-rounded drink.
4. Garnish: The garnish used in these cocktails also differs. The Old Fashioned is typically garnished with a twist of citrus peel, such as orange or lemon, which adds a subtle hint of citrus aroma to the drink. In contrast, the Manhattan is often garnished with a maraschino cherry, which adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the cocktail.
While both the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are whiskey-based cocktails, they vary in their choice of whiskey, sweetness, vermouth, and garnish. The Old Fashioned allows for more flexibility in terms of whiskey choice and sweetness level, while the Manhattan has a defined recipe that highlights the spiciness of rye whiskey and the richness of sweet vermouth. The Perfect Manhattan adds complexity by incorporating both sweet and dry vermouths. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and the desired flavor profile.