Brandy Manhattan
The Brandy Manhattan is a variation of a classic Manhattan that uses brandy instead of whiskey whilst keeping the sweet vermouth and Angostura bitters. The drink is much sweeter than its famous whisky sibling.
Other variations of the Brandy Manhattan include a Dry Brandy Manhattan with dry instead of sweet vermouth and the Perfect Brandy Manhattan with equal parts of dry and sweet vermouth.
For the brandy lover, the Brandy Manhattan makes a great addition to your cocktail list.
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2.2
Equipment
- coupe glass
Ingredients
- 60 ml brandy
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- maraschino cherry (to garnish)
Instructions
- Pour in all the ingredients into a cocktail glass filled with ice, and stir vigorously.
- Strain the liquid into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
FAQ
What’s the difference between an Old fashioned and a Manhattan?
An Old Fashioned is made with whiskey (bourbon or rye), Angostura bitters, and sugar; the classic Manhattan is traditionally made with rye whiskey and substitutes sweet vermouth for the sugar, and this Brandy Manhattan uses brandy instead of rye whiskey.
What’s in a Brandy Manhattan?
The Brandy Manhattan swaps whiskey for brandy, mixing it with sweet vermouth and bitters. It’s smoother, rounder, and a touch sweeter than the classic Manhattan.
How strong is a Brandy Manhattan?
A standard serve (50ml brandy at 40% ABV + 25ml sweet vermouth at 15% ABV) works out at about 2.2 alcohol units – similar to a Negroni, and heavier than long drinks like the Lynchburg Lemonade.
How does it taste compared to the classic Manhattan?
Where the Manhattan has a spicy rye or smooth bourbon base, the Brandy Manhattan leans into mellow fruit and oak notes. If you enjoy the Sidecar, you’ll likely appreciate the brandy depth here.
What vermouth works best?
Sweet red vermouth is standard, but using a spiced or rich vermouth can highlight brandy’s fruit character. It plays the same starring role as in a Boulevardier, balancing out bold base spirits.
What’s the best garnish for a Brandy Manhattan?
A brandied cherry is the most natural match, though an orange twist can bring brightness. The garnish choice shifts the balance just like it does in the whiskey Old Fashioned.