The Perfect French Manhattan Recipe: A Sophisticated Twist on a Classic Cocktail

French Manhattan
Prep Time 5 mins
Total Time 5 mins
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 32  F
Servings: 2
Estimated Cost: 6
Calories: 190
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

A refined take on the classic Manhattan cocktail featuring rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Chambord, and bitters, garnished with a cherry or lemon twist.

Ingredients
  • 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon for a softer finish)
  • 0.75 oz French sweet vermouth (Dolin Rouge is a popular choice)
  • 0.5 oz Chambord (or creme de cassis as an alternative)
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Ice (for stirring)
  • Luxardo cherry or lemon twist (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Chill the Glass: Begin by placing your cocktail glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill. A cold glass ensures the cocktail stays crisp.
  2. 2
    Combine the Spirits: In a mixing glass, add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Chambord, and bitters.
  3. 3
    Add Ice & Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes. Stir (not shake) for 25–30 seconds to properly dilute and chill the cocktail.
  4. 4
    Strain: Discard the ice water from your glass and strain the drink into the now-chilled cocktail glass.
  5. 5
    Garnish with Style: Top it off with a Luxardo cherry for a deep, syrupy touch or a lemon twist for added freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 190kcal
% Daily Value *
Sodium 2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
Sugars 6g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.