Why Bourbon Manhattans Are the Ultimate Cocktail

A bourbon Manhattan is the ultimate cocktail for many reasons, including its light, refreshing flavor. Slightly bitter and herbal tasting, it makes for the perfect year-round go-to drink. Whether slowly sipping it in a New York bar or unwinding at home after a long work week, the bourbon Manhattan is a recipe everyone should know. Learn how to make this classic adult beverage and a few top reasons why it's this year's ultimate cocktail.

What's In a Bourbon Manhattan?

A bourbon Manhattan is made of equal parts bourbon, angostura bitters, and an ounce of sweet Italian vermouth. Choosing a premium bourbon is vital to making a delicious Manhattan, whether at home or ordering one in a bar. A single cherry or lemon twist is used for garnishment, giving the drink a fruitful, indulging taste.

Some people may use rye whiskey, but bourbon gives this classic cocktail a sweeter, more refreshing flavoring. The history of Manhattans using bourbon dates back to the mid-1870s when a barkeep created the drink while tending bar at a Manhattan club. Guests loved the light, smooth texture, and subtle, sweet undertones. It became one of the most ordered cocktails at the club and throughout the rest of the country. 

Today, the bourbon Manhattan is considered a sophisticated cocktail that is best slowly sipped in a discreet bar overlooking New York City. Of course, you can also whip one up with bourbon at home.

Reasons a Bourbon Manhattan Is the Ultimate Cocktail

Bourbon Manhattans go down smooth, offer a complex, multilayered flavorful experience, and are easy to make. Here are a few reasons why we love a traditional bourbon Manhattan:

Light and Smooth Drink

A bourbon Manhattan is delicious and full of flavor, making it an excellent after-work or evening cocktail. The mild, sweet flavor of each ingredient pairs together well, making it an easy sip-worthy drink. Bourbon is also smoother than rye whiskey, making it a great alternative to an old fashioned. Bourbon's light, smooth taste is also versatile enough to enjoy on a warm summer afternoon or chilly, dark fall evening.

You can also slightly change the drink's flavoring using different garnishments. A Starlino cherry gives this tasty beverage a naturally sweet flavor, whereas an orange peel gives a slight tart flavoring. Some may also express the oils from the cherry or orange peel to make their cocktail sweeter.

Complex, Enjoyable Flavors

Another thing that makes this beverage so enjoyable to sip on is the multifaceted layers of contrasting ingredients. Best described as sweet and smoky, a Manhattan with bourbon satisfies all your cravings. Bourbons typically have their own flavor undertones, including honey, caramel, sugar, oak, or vanilla, allowing you to create a recipe you'll love. 

When paired with sweet vermouth, the oak and vanilla of bourbon offer a complex palette of flavors. The taste of bourbon significantly varies, depending on its quality and maker. Choosing a premium bourbon ensures you can taste and smell the many flavors, making sipping on this delicious cocktail even more enjoyable.

Readily Available

Bourbon Manhattans are also readily available. You'll find them on the menu at most bars and restaurants that serve alcohol. Because this cocktail calls for just three ingredients, most bars can make them even if they're not on the menu. 

Additionally, any bar that serves the rye whiskey version usually has bourbon available as an option. Many bars also serve ample variations of this beverage. You might try a Rob Roy, a Black Manhattan, a Brooklyn, or a Revolver. But a Manhattan may be your best choice if you're looking for a smooth drink with bourbon.

Simple To Make

Bourbon Manhattans aren't just easy to find, but they're also simple to make. You can make your own delightful bourbon-based cocktail at home with just a few ingredients. You don't need any special equipment or glassware. A Manhattan is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, straight up without ice. 

However, some may enjoy their drink served in a coupe glass with a single ice cube to tone down the strong bourbon flavors. Never shake a Manhattan. Instead, stir the ingredients slightly to combine the many flavors and undertones.

Manhattans made with bourbon have just a few ingredients, are easy to make, and are available at most bars, making them one of the top cocktails. Whether you're looking for your summer drink of choice or you want to try something new, a bourbon Manhattan is an excellent choice.