Happy Hour | the Big Apple Manhattan
It's time to toast to fall-with whiskey!
By John McCarthy,Menshealth.com
When it comes to the origins of the classic Manhattan cocktail, there are only two facts people seem to agree on: It came from Manhattan and it debuted around the mid- to late-1800s. From there it's whatever story you wish to tell, because there are a lot of them. Whatever your version of the truth, the drink is a classic and certainly one to master because once your base elements are set, the sky's the limit as to how you can customize it.
In its most basic form, the generally accepted template here is two ounces of rye or bourbon and ½ ounce of sweet vermouth, with a few drops of bitters and a maraschino cherry garnish. This version introduces autumnal flavors by swapping out the vermouth for apple cider, which mingles pleasantly with sage and brown sugar and is anchored by orange zest and a dash or two of bitters to keep the sweetness under control. The saffron is optional, but it adds a nice little "hmm" moment to the cocktail. What's not optional, of course, is the base spirit, and though any whiskey will do, I recommend a strong one like Wild Turkey 101 to cut through the other ingredients.
Speaking of which, this week's Happy Hour is dedicated to Jimmy Russell, master distiller of Wild Turkey bourbon. Mr. Russell just celebrated his 58th year with Wild Turkey, making him one of the most experienced bourbon makers in the world. The original idea was to feature Jimmy's favorite cocktail, but he is apparently a man of simple taste.
The Drinks Every Man Should Know
"Favorite cocktail? I like a little bourbon in a glass," Russell says in a distinct southern drawl. "And if it's warm outside I like to put a little ice in it."
I hope he doesn't mind that we dressed up that glass of bourbon a bit. So here's a Manhattan for ya, Louisville. Cheers!
The Big Apple Manhattan
What you'll need:
2 ounce bourbon or rye
1/2 ounce apple cider
3 sage leaves
1 tsp brown sugar
Pinch of saffron (optional)
2 orange twists
1/2 tsp orange zest
2 dashes of orange bitters
Quality maraschino cherry or an amaretto soaked fresh cherry (for garnish)
How to make it:
Muddle cider, sage, brown sugar, orange twists, saffron, and zest together in glass. Add whiskey and stir. Strain and serve over ice, garnish with Amaretto-soaked fresh cherry or maraschino cherry and sage leaves.
The 12 Best Irish Whiskeys For Your Buck
More From Men's Health
The Best Way To Drink Tequila
The 10 Best Bourbons
How To Stock Your Liquor Cabinet
