“First we take Manhattan, then we take Berlin…” I never really understood what Leonard Cohen was singing about in his classic song, “First We Take Manhattan.” The Canadian born poet always excelled at grandiose imagery. My issue with Cohen is that, although I admire his brilliant writing ability, his recordings always seemed to lack something. I don’t think I’m the only one who thinks so. At least two albums have been released featuring a number of big name artists covering his songs. In fact REM took on the aforementioned tune, while such artists as U2, Peter Gabriel, Pixies, James, Willie Nelson, and Sting, to name a few, have all covered Cohen’s songs as well. So where am I going with all of this obscure music trivia you ask? Well, I guess its the idea that sometimes the original thing isn’t the best. Take the Manhattan cocktail for instance. Originally, when the drink was first concocted in the late nineteenth century it was made with rye whiskey. Sometime later, the rye whiskey was widely replaced with bourbon. This sweetened the drink considerably and made it smoother. So the moral of today’s post is that sometimes revisiting a classic can improve it. So without further ado, I like the Manhattan thusly:
3 parts bourbon (preferably from Kentucky)
1 part sweet vermouth
a dash of bitters (to taste)
garnish with a maraschino cherry (or 3…)
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, shake, and pour into a chilled cocktail glass or serve on the rocks.
Recommended listening with the Manhattan…a Leonard Cohen cover album:
I agree with your Manhattan Recipe. I often pour a little more sweet vermouth but its just because I perfer the flavor. What is your favorite bourbon? i’m curious? I’m a Basil Hayden and Maker’s Mark man myself.