Ring in the new year with a classic cocktail

Champagne seems to get all the credit this time of year, and rightfully so. But this year we wanted to offer up a possible alternative, the Manhattan. It’s a classic cocktail made with whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters.

There’s a long list of variations on this recipe, but in an effort to adhere to our somewhat regal brand image, we thought we’d offer up a recipe for the most traditional version.

So, raise a glass gentlemen to a fantastic year and here’s looking forward to 2015!

The Manhattan

You’ll need:

• 2 parts rye whiskey
• 1 part sweet vermouth
• A dash of Angostura bitters
• Ice & a mixing glass
• Cocktail glass

Step 1: Chill the glass

Either put some ice in it for a few minutes or (Ryan’s favorite) wet the glass with water, shake out the excess and place in the freezer for 5 minutes. The latter should provide you a nice frost on the glass.

Step 2: Combine ingredients

Combine the rye whiskey and sweet vermouth into a mixing glass. Now add a few dashes of bitters to your liking. Add some orange peel if you want some citrus influence. Add some ice.

Step 3: Mix

Mix ingredients thoroughly until condensation appears on the inside of the mixing glass. Stir, don’t shake.

Step 4: Pour

Strain the ice either with the cocktail shaker (if this was your mixing glass) or by using a strainer.

Step 5: Garnish

For the same reason we add pick stitching to our suits, you need to garnish your Manhattan. Otherwise, it’s just boring!

Add a maraschino cherry and you have yourself a classic Manhattan.

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And that’s all there is to it!

In case you still want some champagne options, here’s a great article on a range of affordable and tasty options.

Happy New Year everyone, we’ll see you again in 2015!

By Ryan Wagner

PS: If you’re looking for an elegant white shirt to match the sophistication of your drink, look no further than this white pique fabric.