A Metropolitan cocktail is the perfect balance of smooth, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors—an easy yet elegant drink that’s been a favorite for decades. With a base of rich brandy, a splash of sweet vermouth, and a touch of simple syrup, it’s a sophisticated sip that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Metropolitan
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and I always come back to it when I want something classic yet effortless. Let’s walk through how to make it, plus a few ways to tweak it to your taste.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) brandy – A good-quality brandy makes all the difference. Cognac works beautifully, too.
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth – This adds a smooth, slightly herbal sweetness.
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup – Adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
- 2 dashes bitters – Angostura works well, but you can experiment with orange or chocolate bitters.
- Ice – For chilling.
- Garnish: A cherry or a twist of lemon peel.
Glassware: A chilled cocktail glass is the traditional choice, but a lowball glass works if you prefer a more relaxed presentation.
How to Make a Metropolitan
- Fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour in the brandy, sweet vermouth, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a cherry or a twist of lemon peel.
That’s it! A smooth, slightly sweet cocktail with just the right amount of depth.
Tips for the Best Metropolitan
- Chill your glass beforehand. A quick 5-minute stay in the freezer keeps your drink perfectly cold.
- Use fresh ingredients. A fresh lemon twist makes a huge difference in aroma and taste.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a drier drink, cut back on the simple syrup slightly.
I’ve played around with the ratios over the years, and a little tweak here and there can make this cocktail fit your personal taste perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
The Metropolitan pairs beautifully with:
- Cheese platter – Brie, aged cheddar, or gouda complement the drink’s rich flavors.
- Dark chocolate – A square of dark chocolate enhances the deep, caramel notes of brandy.
- Grilled steak – If you’re having a full meal, the cocktail’s slight sweetness balances beautifully with a juicy steak.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists on the classic:
Metropolitan Royale
- Add a splash of Champagne on top for a sparkling twist.
Spiced Metropolitan
- Muddle a cinnamon stick and star anise with the simple syrup before mixing for a warm, spiced depth.
Metropolitan Mule
- Swap the vermouth for ginger beer and serve over ice in a copper mug.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Use a non-alcoholic spirit, tonic water, and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing mocktail.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Batch prep: If you’re making this for a gathering, mix everything (except ice) ahead of time and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, stir with ice and strain into glasses.
- Leftovers: If you mix too much, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just stir with fresh ice before serving.
FAQs
Is the Metropolitan strong?
Yes, but the sweetness from the vermouth and syrup balances it out nicely.
Can I make this without bitters?
You can, but bitters add depth and balance the sweetness. If you skip them, the drink will be a little flatter in flavor.
What’s the difference between a Metropolitan and a Martini?
A Metropolitan is sweeter and made with brandy, while a Martini is crisp and made with gin or vodka.
What’s the best time to enjoy a Metropolitan?
It’s traditionally an evening cocktail, but hey—it’s always five o’clock somewhere!
The Metropolitan is a timeless cocktail that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic or try a variation, it’s a drink that never disappoints. Cheers! 🍸
