Perfect Manhattan Drink Recipe

In my opinion, a Manhattan drink isn't for beginners. I would compare a Manhattan cocktail to someone that goes from drinking Boone's Farm wines and graduates to a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Not that I'm knocking Boone's Farm. In fact, I still like Boone's Farm wine. But Boone's Farm has a sweet taste, and the alcohol is barely detectable. The more expensive, 'sophisticated' wines definitely have a detectable alcoholic taste. And I've yet to find an expensive wine that doesn't make me grimace.

The same goes for a Manhattan drink. A Manhattan cocktail is almost pure whiskey. There are very few liquors that I enjoy drinking straight. And I like my mixed drink to taste like candy, thank you, with little hint of alcohol. However, my husband loves these and so I figured other people would enjoy Manhattan cocktail drinks, too.

Enjoy this Perfect Manhattan drink recipe. But remember, Manhattan cocktail drinks are stout. Drink Manhattans while entertaining at home or have a designated driver or cab waiting. (I hope I don't sound preachy.)

Perfect Manhattan Cocktail Ingredients

2 ounces blended whiskey- rye is best

1/2 ounces each- sweet vermouth and dry vermouth

Dash of bitters (optional)

Lemon, orange or lime peel

Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Pour all of the liquids into a mixing glass with 3 or 4 ice cubes. Stir gently until very cold, about 20 seconds. Twist the peel. Swipe the rim and inside of a chilled cocktail glass with the peel. Discard the peel. Strain the alcohol mix into the chilled cocktail (martini) glass. Drop in a maraschino, if desired.

Note- For intense citrus flavor, heat the peel in a lit match and then drop into the Manhattan drink.