The classic drink, which is stirred and not shaken. Whisky is stirred with sweet vermouth and served in a glass. The addition of bitters is purely optional. Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
Use the same recipe, but substitute dry vermouth for the sweet and garnish with a twist of lemon zest instead of a cherry.
This may be the "True Manhattan" recipe, but I have been making Manhattan's for years now and what I've found makes them great is make the Whiskey/Vermouth 2-1 ratio then add grenadine or Cherry juice out of a jar of cherries till the color turns red. A few more calories but are they good. - 01 May 2008 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)
Oh my, this is my Dad's all time favorite drink and I'll never forget the first time he made me one. It was a bonding experience for us both. I agree with others that the Whiskey/Vermmouth ratio is definitely 2:1. I use Maker's Mark Whiskey and like my Dad taught me - spill some cherry juice in and garnish with a maraschino cherry. Enjoy! - 22 May 2010 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)
My grandma had one of these every night for years and years and she lived to be 93! I agree that the correct recipe should be 2 parts whiskey to 1 part vermouth. Add a little cherry juice, serve on the rocks, and you've got a classic cocktail! Wild Turkey Whiskey is awesome in this drink. Best served with cheese and crackers during happy hour! - 27 Aug 2009 (Review from Allrecipes US | Canada)