Manhattan vs Old Fashioned: The Ultimate Cocktail Showdown!

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned: Which Classic Cocktail Reigns Supreme in 2023?

Yo, bro! Want to up your cocktail game and impress your crew with your mixology skills? Today we’re tackling the whole “Manhattan vs Old Fashioned” rivalry, but in order to understand we need to go back.

Let’s get familiar with the most legendary whiskey-based drinks around: the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned cover art showcasing an old fashioned
A delicious old-fashioned cocktail overlooking the streets of NYC

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a whiskey purist, these classic recipes will take your taste buds to the next level.

This article is where it’s at, bro.

We’re getting deep into the origins, ingredients, and subtle differences between these OG drinks.

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned cover art showcasing a bourbon based cocktail
The warm glow of the NYC sun hitting our old fashioned cocktail

From the Manhattan Club to the gritty streets of NYC, we’re exploring the history and evolution of these cocktails and giving you some killer tips on how to make them at home.

So, whether you’re sipping your whiskey from a fancy-ass stemmed cocktail glass or keeping it real in a down-to-earth tumbler, let’s raise a glass to these iconic drinks and see which one comes out on top in 2023.

It’s time to get your drink on, bro! Let’s dive into today’s Manhattan vs Old Fashioned: The Ultimate Cocktail Showdown!

What’s a Manhattan drink made of?

If you’re a fan of classic cocktails, then you gotta try the Manhattan!

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned cover art highlight a sleek manhattan cocktail
There truly is something so regal about a sleek Manhattan cocktail

This OG recipe has been around since the early 1800s and is said to have been invented at the Manhattan Club in New York City. But let’s be real, it doesn’t matter where it came from, it’s just freakin’ delicious.

The Manhattan’s subtle sweetness and unique flavors come from the perfect blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and dashes of bitters. It’s a simple recipe, but when done right, it’s a complex and tasty drink that will impress your taste buds.

How to Make a Manhattan Cocktail

Here’s a recipe to make a classic Manhattan cocktail:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice.
  2. Add rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters to the mixing glass.
  3. Stir the mixture well until chilled, about 30 seconds.
  4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve.
  6. Enjoy your classic Manhattan cocktail!

What is the secret to a good Old Fashioned?

Alright bros, let’s talk about the Old Fashioned cocktail – the OG recipe that’s been around for over a century.

an old fashioned cocktail

This no-nonsense, badass drink is made with bourbon whiskey, a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters. For some, even a splash of water.

Don’t forget to add an orange slice or a maraschino cherry to top it off. This cocktail is a classic that’s sure to impress even the toughest critics out there.

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail newbie, making an Old Fashioned cocktail is a must-learn skill. Get ready to impress your friends with your newfound cocktail-making abilities.

How to make an old fashioned?

Here’s a simple recipe to make a classic Old Fashioned cocktail:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp of sugar
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 orange slice
  • 1 cherry (optional)
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. In an Old Fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube, bitters, and a splash of water until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Add a large ice cube and pour in the whiskey.
  3. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry, if desired.
  5. Enjoy your classic Old Fashioned cocktail!

The Man Difference Between an Old Fashioned vs Manhattan

Let’s break down the differences between a Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.

manhattan vs old fashioned cocktails

Even though they share some similar ingredients and preparation methods, there are a few things that make them unique.

The main difference is the type of whiskey used – the Manhattan is made with rye, while the Old Fashioned is made with bourbon. And you know what that means, the Old Fashioned is sweeter and smoother than the Manhattan.

Another thing that sets them apart is the way they’re served. The Manhattan is usually served up in a chilled cocktail glass, while the Old Fashioned is served over ice in a rocks glass. And let’s not forget about the garnishes – the Manhattan gets an orange twist while the Old Fashioned goes all out with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

So, it all comes down to what you prefer, bro. If you’re into a sweeter and smoother taste, go for the Old Fashioned. And if you’re looking for a classy drink to sip on, go for the Manhattan. It’s your call, man.

The Sweet Side: Adding Simple Syrup to Your Old Fashioned and Manhattan

If you’re looking to add a touch of sweetness to your classic whiskey cocktails, you may want to try using simple syrup.

This ingredient is made by dissolving sugar in water and heating until it forms a syrupy consistency.

It’s a popular choice for mixed drinks because it blends more easily than granulated sugar.

Adding Simple Syrup to Your Old Fashioned

For an Old Fashioned, you can substitute a teaspoon of simple syrup for the sugar cube in the old fashioned recipe. This makes the cocktail easier to prepare since you won’t need to muddle the sugar with bitters and water.

Some purists may prefer the traditional version, but adding simple syrup can create a more complex flavor profile.

Adding Simple Syrup to Your Manhattan Cocktail

For the Manhattan, you can add a splash of simple syrup to sweeten it up.

This works especially well if you prefer a sweeter version of the classic drink. Remember that the Manhattan is typically made with dry vermouth, which already adds a touch of sweetness to the cocktail.

Overall, using simple syrup can be a great option for whiskey lovers who want to experiment with adding sweet elements to their cocktails. And don’t forget to garnish with a cocktail cherry or lemon twist to finish off your final cocktail!

A Morning Drink? The Surprising History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail

Wisconsin vs. Kentucky: The Battle Over the Origin of the Old Fashioned Cocktail”

It’s a debate that’s been raging for decades – where did the Old Fashioned cocktail really originate? Was it in bourbon-rich Kentucky or brandy-loving Wisconsin?

Join us as we explore the evidence and uncover the truth behind this contentious issue. Whether you’re a die-hard Wisconsinite or a proud Kentuckian, this article is sure to provide some interesting insights into the history of this beloved drink.

Click the image below or click here to read “The History Behind The Popular Old Fashioned”