by The Webmaster
This is Rich's own recipe for a premium version of the famous cocktail.
Serves: 1 person. Preparation time: 5 minutes.
- 1½ oz. Cognac• (VS or VSOP Grade)
- 1½ oz. Sweet (Italian) Vermouth
- ¼ oz. Grand Marnier or Cointreau
- 2 Dashes Angostura or Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters
- 1 Maraschino Cherry‡
In a tall cocktail mixing glass, add the Brandy, Vermouth, Orange Liquor and Bitters. Add just two Ice Cubes. Stir vigorously until the liquid is cold - do not shake the mixture. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe (Martini shape) glass. Serve with a stemmed Cherry at the bottom.
The cocktail may also be served "On The Rocks". Just use a "Rocks Glass" (aka: Lowball or Old Fashion glass) instead and put 4 small Ice Cubes or 1 large Ice Ball or large Cube in the glass, then add the mixture and Cherry on top.
• There is little reason to buy expensive XO Cognac here; plain California Brandy is a budget-friendly alternative.
‡ For an attention-getting ending, when you buy a jar of Maraschino Cherries, pour off and discard all the liquid and refill the jar with Whiskey, Bourbon or Brandy. Replace the lid, shake well and refrigerate for a few weeks, shaking occasionally. The alcohol will infuse the fruit. When the guest has finished the cocktail, they usually eat the Cherry and will be very surprised at the grand finale.
”Manhattan Cocktail” - Obviously it originated in New York City. One account suggests it originated in the mid-1870s at the "Manhattan Club". Other stories say it was made in lower Manhattan back in the 1860s. At one time, it was the most popular cocktail ordered at bars and restaurants. Originally it was made with the popular Rye Whiskey of the time. Since then, Blended, Canadian and Bourbon Whiskeys are often used now. This French version is unique and tasty.
