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Brandy Manhattan Recipe

Brandy Manhattan Recipe

This Brandy Manhattan Recipe is a smooth, spirit-forward cocktail made with brandy, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It has rich caramel notes, gentle herbal flavor, and a silky finish. It's perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a quiet evening at home.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces brandy Use Cognac for a richer flavor if preferred.
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth Keep refrigerated after opening.
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 Luxardo cherry For garnish.
  • 1 strip orange peel Optional garnish.
  • 1 cup ice cubes Large cubes work best.

Equipment

  • Mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Hawthorne strainer
  • Chilled coupe glass

Method
 

  1. Chill a coupe glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes or fill it with ice water while preparing the drink.
  2. Add the brandy, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters to a mixing glass.
  3. Fill the mixing glass with fresh large ice cubes until nearly full.
  4. Stir gently for 20–25 seconds until the outside of the glass feels very cold and slightly frosty.
  5. Empty the chilled serving glass if you used ice water, then strain the cocktail into the glass. The drink should look clear and glossy.
  6. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry. For extra aroma, twist an orange peel over the drink before serving, then discard or place it in the glass.

Notes

  • Fresh vermouth makes a noticeable difference. Refrigerate it after opening and use it within 1–2 months.
  • Stir instead of shaking to keep the cocktail smooth, silky, and crystal clear.
  • Large ice cubes melt more slowly, giving you better control over dilution and flavor.