The Ginger Manhattan is a cozy, modern twist on the classic cocktail we all know and love. It brings the smooth warmth of bourbon together with the spicy kick of ginger-perfect for sipping on cool evenings or impressing guests at your next dinner party. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: using fresh ginger syrup makes all the difference. It gives the cocktail a clean, vibrant flavor that bottled versions just can’t match.
Ginger Manhattan
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
– 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
– ½ oz (15 ml) ginger syrup (*see tip below*)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Ice, for stirring
– Lemon twist or maraschino cherry, for garnish
Helpful Equipment
– Mixing glass or cocktail shaker (for stirring)
– Strainer
– Jigger or measuring spoons
– Martini glass or rocks glass
Method
- Fill your mixing glass about halfway with ice. You want enough to chill the drink, but not so much that it over-dilutes.
- Pour in the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and ginger syrup. Then add the bitters. Make sure to measure-the balance of flavors really matters here.
- Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds. You’re aiming to chill the drink and blend the flavors without watering it down too much. It should feel cold to the touch and smell warmly spiced.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass for something elegant, or into a rocks glass if you’re feeling more casual.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon (rub it around the rim first for a burst of citrus aroma) or drop in a cherry for a sweet finish.
Tips & Notes
– Ginger Syrup: You can buy this at specialty stores, but it’s easy to make at home. Just simmer equal parts sugar, water, and sliced fresh ginger for about 10 minutes, then strain and cool.
– Don’t over-stir: Stirring too long can make the drink watery. Stop when it feels cold and slightly thickened.
– Bourbon matters: Use a bourbon you enjoy sipping on its own-it really shines in this recipe.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can stir up a batch of Ginger Manhattans ahead of time (just scale up the ingredients) and store it in the fridge in a sealed jar or bottle. It’ll keep well for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir over ice before serving.
Serving Suggestions
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner pairings: a Ginger Manhattan with a square of dark chocolate. The bittersweet chocolate brings out the warmth of the bourbon and the spice of the ginger in the best way.
Here are a few other pairings to try:
– Cheese platter: Go for aged cheddar or gouda. The richness balances the cocktail’s spice.
– Seafood appetizers: Shrimp cocktail or scallops are light enough to let the drink shine.
– Charcuterie: Cured meats, olives, and pickled veggies create a salty, savory contrast.
Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Here are a few fun takes on the Ginger Manhattan:
Spicy Ginger Manhattan
– Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper with the bitters for a little heat.
Ginger Beer Manhattan
– Replace the ginger syrup with ginger beer and serve it over ice in a rocks glass. It’s bubbly and refreshing.
Maple Ginger Manhattan
– Swap the ginger syrup for maple syrup for a cozier, slightly sweeter flavor. Great for fall evenings.
Virgin Ginger Manhattan
– For a non-alcoholic version, mix 3 oz (90 ml) ginger ale with a splash of lemon juice. Serve over ice with a lemon twist. It’s light, fizzy, and still has that ginger kick.
Substitutions
– Ginger Syrup: Use ginger liqueur for a bolder flavor, or honey/agave for a milder, natural sweetness.
– Bourbon: Try rye whiskey if you want a spicier, drier version.
– Sweet Vermouth: Use dry vermouth if you prefer less sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t shake this cocktail-shaking adds air and makes it cloudy. Stirring keeps it smooth and clear.
– Avoid cheap bourbon-it dominates the drink, so use something you’d enjoy sipping neat.
– Don’t skip the garnish. A twist of lemon or cherry adds aroma and finishes the drink beautifully.
FAQs
What does a Ginger Manhattan taste like?
It’s smooth and rich with a warm, spicy edge from the ginger. The bitters add depth, and the vermouth rounds it out with subtle sweetness.
Can I use ginger beer instead of ginger syrup?
Yes! It’ll add fizz and a lighter feel. Just adjust the sweetness to your liking.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Go with something mid- to high-quality-Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark are all great choices.
Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients, mix everything ahead, and chill it. Stir over ice before serving.
How do I make it healthier?
Use honey or agave instead of ginger syrup, and keep portions modest.
A Ginger Manhattan is one of those drinks that feels both classic and new at the same time. It’s a simple cocktail, but the bold flavor makes it feel special. Whether you’re shaking up drinks for friends or winding down after a long day, this one’s a keeper. Cheers!
