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This classic Manhattan cocktail is just what you need for a romantic Valentine’s Day! Made with just a few simple ingredients and ready in less than 5 minutes.

Why you’ll love this classic cocktail!
If you know me by now, you know I love a good cocktail.
I was strictly a gin girl until my husband started drinking bourbon. At first, I had no interest in his newfound love until I learned to appreciate the wonders of Manhattan. Now I know this drink is made with rye (the classic way) and not bourbon, but it’s close enough, so the story still applies.
I like my Manhattans made with either bourbon or rye, but since I’m trying to keep things vintage around here, we are going classic today.
Plus, I like to think Don Draper would appreciate my knowledge of how to keep things classic and delicious.
Now, it is essential to note that Manhattans is a more potent cocktail. Don’t drink too many, or they will sneak up on you!

Ingredients needed
- Rye
- Sweet vermouth
- Bitters
- Luxardo cherries
How to make a Manhattan cocktail
Do you know what’s so great about a Manhattan that goes beyond it and tastes delicious? How easy it is to make!
- Add ice to a shaker.
- Pour in Rye, vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir until cold.
- Pour into a glass and garnish with cherries.
How easy and delicious does this sound?
My Pro Tips
Recipe Tips
- Rye is the traditional spirit used in Manhattan, but bourbon can be used in its place.
- Use high-quality cherries such as Luxardo or Amarena for garnish.
- Make sure your vermouth is fresh. It is a fortified wine that can lose quality as it sits.
- Swap up the flavors of the bitters by trying orange, chocolate, or cherry.

More cocktail recipes
Classic Manhattan Cocktail

Ingredients
- 2-½ ounces rye
- ¾ ounce sweet vermouth
- 3 drops bitters
- 3 jarred Luxardo cherries
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker half way with ice and add in rye, sweet vermouth and bitters.
- Top the shaker and gently shake.
- Pour into cocktail glass and serve with cherries.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
















The cocktail and crostini look fabulous and the video is so cute! Keep them coming girls!
I don’t know that I’ve ever tried a Manhattan…clearly that needs to change! I love the video…you and Gina work well off of each other.
“they don’t have weird stuff in them…” YEAH! I generally don’t care for maraschino cherries (and my Manhattans go cherry-free…) but those I might try! of course they are $20 a jar, HA
fun video, girls! CHEERS.
Ok, true story I’ve never had bourbon. I always thought of it like they show it in the movies, a strong guys liquor thats not meant for ladies. Well, after seeing this it is SOOO meant for ladies. This just looks amazing girl!
You two are naturals on camera! What a great new venture! And this cocktail – I had a friend in grad school who drank Manhattans and she always said “Tastes like MORE!” when she was ready for another… this version definitely “Tastes like MORE!” 🙂
Agree with the “they dont have all the stuff in them”! That’s one of the main reasons I don’t buy cherries. I’ll have to see where I can find those.. and make this yummy drink!
You guys are adorable! More, please! 🙂
I loved the video! How cute are you?!!!
I love this video so much!!!! I want to have drinks with you and Don!!
love the video, cocktail, crostini and everything!! Keep ’em coming! and now I need to go check the back of my balsamic vinegar. .