The Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are both classic cocktails with distinct flavors and ingredients. Let’s dive into the differences between these two beloved drinks.
1. Base spirit:
The Old Fashioned is typically made with whiskey, and you have the choice of using either bourbon or rye. Bourbon offers a sweeter and smoother profile, while rye whiskey provides a spicier and drier taste. On the other hand, the Manhattan is traditionally made with rye whiskey, which adds a robust and bold flavor to the cocktail.
2. Sweetener:
In the Old Fashioned, a small amount of sugar is used as the sweetener. This can be a sugar cube, simple syrup, or even muddled sugar. The sweetness in the Manhattan, however, comes from the sweet vermouth, a fortified wine that adds depth and complexity to the drink.
3. Bitters:
Both the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan include bitters, which are essential for balancing the sweetness and adding complexity. Angostura bitters are commonly used in both cocktails, but you can experiment with different types of bitters to create unique flavor profiles.
4. Vermouth:
In a traditional Old Fashioned, no vermouth is used. However, in a Manhattan, sweet vermouth is a key ingredient, providing a rich and slightly sweet taste. A Perfect Manhattan takes it a step further by using equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, resulting in a more balanced and nuanced flavor.
5. Garnish:
An Old Fashioned is typically garnished with an orange twist or a cherry, adding a touch of citrus or fruity sweetness. Meanwhile, a Manhattan is traditionally garnished with a cherry, although some variations may include a lemon twist as well.
6. Preparation:
The preparation of these cocktails also differs. To make an Old Fashioned, you muddle the sugar and bitters, add whiskey, and stir with ice. It is then strained into a glass with fresh ice and garnished. The Manhattan, on the other hand, is stirred with ice along with the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. It is then strained into a chilled cocktail glass and garnished.
In terms of flavor, the Old Fashioned tends to highlight the whiskey with subtle sweetness, while the Manhattan showcases the interplay between the whiskey and vermouth, resulting in a more complex and rich taste.
It’s worth noting that variations and personal preferences can greatly influence the taste of both cocktails. Some people may prefer using different types of whiskey, experimenting with different bitters, or adding their own twist to the recipes. Ultimately, the choice between an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan comes down to personal taste and the desired flavor profile you’re looking for in your drink.