Are you a fan of the classic Manhattan cocktail? If so, you know that the key to a perfect Manhattan is choosing the right bourbon. While rye whiskey is typically used in a Manhattan, many prefer the sweetness and smoothness of bourbon. But with so many options out there, how do you know which bourbons are best for your Manhattan?
Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best bourbons for a Manhattan cocktail. Whether you prefer a traditional Manhattan or a twist on the classic, these bourbons are sure to impress.
What Makes a Good Manhattan Bourbon
When it comes to making a Manhattan cocktail, the choice of bourbon is crucial. A good Manhattan bourbon should have a balance of flavors that complement the sweet vermouth and bitters. Here are some key characteristics to look for in a bourbon that works well in a Manhattan:
High Rye Content
Bourbons with a high rye content tend to have a spicier and more complex flavor profile, which pairs well with the sweetness of the vermouth in a Manhattan. Look for bourbons with a rye content of at least 20%, such as Belle Meade Bourbon or Bulleit Bourbon.
Smoothness
A smooth bourbon is essential for a Manhattan, as it will not overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail. Smoothness can be achieved through a long aging process or a higher proof, which can help to mellow out the flavors. Examples of smooth bourbons that work well in a Manhattan include Woodford Reserve and Four Roses Small Batch.
Complexity
A good Manhattan bourbon should have a complex flavor profile that includes notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. These flavors can add depth and richness to the cocktail. Look for bourbons that have been aged for at least four years, such as Maker’s Mark or Elijah Craig.
Versatility
A versatile bourbon is one that can work well in a variety of cocktails, including the Manhattan. These bourbons tend to have a balanced flavor profile that is not too overpowering. Examples of versatile bourbons include Old Forester and Buffalo Trace.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Bourbons for Manhattan
1. Maker’s Mark
photo credit: www.makersmark.com
Maker’s Mark is a popular choice for bourbon lovers, whether for a cocktail or straight. It has a balanced but sweet palate with notes of caramel and oak, making it a perfect choice for a soft and savory bourbon Manhattan.
Maker’s Mark is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that is handmade in small batches using a unique, proprietary recipe. It is aged for a minimum of six years in charred white oak barrels, giving it a smooth and mellow flavor.
When making a Maker’s Mark Manhattan, you can follow the classic recipe by combining Maker’s Mark bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters over ice in a mixing glass. Stir well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
If you want to add a twist to your Maker’s Mark Manhattan, you can try adding a teaspoon of cherry juice or swapping out the sweet vermouth for a dry vermouth. You can also experiment with different types of bitters to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
2. Bulleit Bourbon
photo credit: www.bulleit.com
If you’re looking for a bourbon that’s perfect for a Manhattan cocktail, Bulleit Bourbon is a great choice. This bourbon is known for its spicy and oaky flavor profile, making it a perfect complement to the sweetness of vermouth and the bitterness of bitters in a Manhattan.
Bulleit Bourbon is made with a high rye mash bill, which gives it its signature spicy taste. It’s aged for at least six years in charred American oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor.
One of the great things about Bulleit Bourbon is that it’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of cocktails, not just a Manhattan. It’s also a great bourbon to sip on its own or with a few ice cubes.
3. Woodford Reserve
photo credit: www.woodfordreserve.com
If you’re looking for a bourbon that can make a perfect Manhattan, Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice. It’s a premium bourbon that’s made in small batches, and it’s known for its smoothness and rich flavor profile.
Woodford Reserve is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey that’s aged for a minimum of four years in new charred oak barrels. The mash bill consists of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, giving it a slightly sweet taste with hints of spice.
What sets Woodford Reserve apart from other bourbons is its unique production process. The distillery uses copper pot stills to create a whiskey that’s rich and flavorful, with a distinct aroma that’s hard to find in other bourbons.
When making a Manhattan with Woodford Reserve, you’ll want to use a high-quality sweet vermouth and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir the ingredients together with ice, then strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a cherry, and you’re ready to enjoy a perfectly balanced cocktail.
4. Knob Creek
photo credit: www.beamdistilling.com
If you are looking for a bourbon that can stand up to the other flavors in a Manhattan cocktail, Knob Creek is a great choice. This bourbon has a high rye content, which gives it a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the vermouth.
Knob Creek is also aged for nine years, which gives it a rich, complex flavor profile. You’ll taste notes of caramel, vanilla, and cinnamon, along with a hint of nuttiness. It’s a bold, flavorful bourbon that won’t get lost in the mix.
If you’re new to bourbon, you might find Knob Creek a bit intense on its own. But in a Manhattan cocktail, it really shines. The sweetness of the vermouth and the bitterness of the bitters help balance out the bold flavors of the bourbon.
5. Angel’s Envy
photo credit: d3cqmwe6z7cbal.cloudfront.net
If you’re looking for a bourbon that will take your Manhattan cocktail to the next level, Angel’s Envy should be at the top of your list. This Kentucky-based distillery has been making waves in the bourbon world since it was founded in 2010, and their flagship bourbon is a great choice for a Manhattan.
Angel’s Envy is aged in port wine barrels, which gives it a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons. You’ll taste notes of honey, dark berries and spice, followed by a depth of woody oak that makes it a great choice for a Manhattan.
In addition to their flagship bourbon, Angel’s Envy also offers a rye whiskey that is a great choice for a Black Manhattan. This whiskey is finished in Caribbean rum casks, which gives it a unique sweetness that pairs well with the bitterness of the vermouth and bitters in a Black Manhattan.
6. Four Roses Single Barrel
photo credit: optimise2.assets-servd.host
If you’re looking for an extra-strong Manhattan, Four Roses Single Barrel is a great choice. This 100-proof, high-rye bourbon perfectly complements sweet vermouth, especially if you usually take your Manhattans with a bit of a kick.
Four Roses Single Barrel is made from a mash bill of 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley. It’s aged for a minimum of 7 years, which gives it a rich, complex flavor profile. You’ll taste notes of cherries, cocoa, and maple syrup, as well as a spicy kick from the rye.
When making a Manhattan with Four Roses Single Barrel, be sure to use a high-quality sweet vermouth. This will balance out the bourbon’s bold flavor and make for a perfectly balanced cocktail. You can also experiment with different bitters to add even more complexity to your drink.
7. Wild Turkey 101
photo credit: www.wildturkeybourbon.com
When it comes to making a Manhattan cocktail, Wild Turkey 101 is a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts. This bourbon is a high-rye whiskey that is aged in American White Oak barrels with the deepest char, giving it a distinct character and flavor.
With a bold and spicy taste, Wild Turkey 101 adds a unique depth to the Manhattan cocktail. The high rye content gives it a rich and complex flavor profile that pairs well with the sweet and bitter notes of the vermouth and bitters.
If you’re looking for a great mixer to pair with Wild Turkey 101 in your Manhattan cocktail, consider trying fresh lemon juice, sweet vermouth, or Averna Amaro. These mixers complement the bold and spicy flavors of the bourbon, creating a balanced and flavorful cocktail.
8. Elijah Craig Small Batch
photo credit: elijahcraig.com
If you’re looking for a bourbon that will take your Manhattan to the next level, Elijah Craig Small Batch is a great option. This bourbon is made from selected whiskeys aged between 8 and 12 years and is bottled in small batches of 200 barrels at a time. The result is a smooth and flavorful bourbon that is perfect for mixing in a Manhattan.
One of the standout features of the Elijah Craig Small Batch is its rich and complex flavor profile. The bourbon has notes of vanilla, caramel, and nuts, along with a hint of spice that adds depth and complexity to the flavor. This makes it a great choice for those who want a bourbon that can stand up to the other ingredients in a Manhattan.
Another great thing about the Elijah Craig Small Batch is its versatility. While it’s great in a Manhattan, it can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. The bourbon’s smooth and mellow flavor makes it easy to drink, and it’s a great choice for both bourbon enthusiasts and those who are new to the spirit.
9. Buffalo Trace
photo credit: www.buffalotrace.com
Buffalo Trace is a popular and widely available bourbon that is perfect for mixing in a Manhattan cocktail. It has a smooth and mellow flavor profile with notes of brown sugar, dark fruit, and spice.
Buffalo Trace is a reasonably priced bourbon that won’t break the bank. You can enjoy a delicious Manhattan without spending a fortune. It is also a versatile bourbon that can be used in a variety of cocktails.
Buffalo Trace has won numerous awards and accolades for its quality and taste. It has been named “Best Bourbon” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
10. Basil Hayden’s
photo credit: www.beamdistilling.com
Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a popular choice for Manhattan cocktails. It is a high-rye bourbon that asserts itself against the sweet vermouth for a satisfying sip.
Basil Hayden’s is known for its smoothness and approachability, making it a great choice for those who are new to bourbon or prefer a milder flavor profile. It also packs a punch of flavor with its spicy and complex notes. This makes it a great choice for those who want a little more depth in their Manhattan.
Basil Hayden’s has won numerous awards and accolades, including a Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Manhattan Recipe
Making a perfect Manhattan cocktail is not difficult, but it requires the right ingredients and techniques. Here is a simple recipe that you can follow to make a delicious Manhattan cocktail at home.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)
- Orange peel for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters to the mixing glass.
- Stir the ingredients until well chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and/or an orange peel, if desired.
Conclusion
Now that you have explored the top 10 bourbons for Manhattan cocktails, you are well-equipped to impress your guests with a perfectly crafted drink. Remember, the key to a good Manhattan is using a quality bourbon that complements the sweet vermouth and bitters.
Whether you prefer a classic bourbon like Maker’s Mark or a more unique option like Angel’s Envy, there is a bourbon on this list that will suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different bourbons to find your perfect Manhattan.
So, go ahead and stock up on your favorite bourbons, gather your friends, and start mixing up some Manhattans. Cheers!
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