A Manhattan is a classic cocktail that consists of whiskey and sweet vermouth, usually served with a cherry garnish. The ratio of whiskey to sweet vermouth in a traditional Manhattan is typically 2 parts whiskey to 1 part vermouth. So, if we use a standard shot measurement, which is 1.5 ounces, we can calculate the amount of alcohol in a Manhattan.
To make a Manhattan, you would typically use 2 shots of whiskey, which would be equivalent to 3 ounces. Whiskey is usually around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), so in 3 ounces of whiskey, you would have 1.2 ounces of alcohol.
For the sweet vermouth, you would use 1 shot, which is 1.5 ounces. Sweet vermouth has a lower ABV than whiskey, typically around 15-18%. Let’s assume it’s 15% ABV for this calculation. In 1.5 ounces of sweet vermouth, you would have 0.225 ounces of alcohol.
Adding up the alcohol content from the whiskey and sweet vermouth, we get a total of 1.2 + 0.225 = 1.425 ounces of alcohol in a Manhattan.
It’s worth mentioning that the actual alcohol content in a cocktail can vary depending on the specific brands and measurements used. Some variations of the Manhattan may call for different ratios or additional ingredients like bitters. Additionally, the size of the shot used can also vary, with some bars using 1.25 or 1.75 ounces instead of the standard 1.5 ounces.
If you prefer a stronger or weaker drink, you can always adjust the ratio of whiskey to vermouth to suit your taste. Some people like a drier Manhattan with less vermouth, while others prefer a sweeter version with more vermouth. Experimenting with different ratios can be a fun way to discover your preferred balance of flavors.
A typical Manhattan made with 2 shots of whiskey (3 ounces) and 1 shot of sweet vermouth (1.5 ounces) would contain approximately 1.425 ounces of alcohol. However, it’s important to note that these measurements can vary depending on personal preferences and the specific recipe used. Cheers!