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Published: Apr 18, 2023 by Jack · This post may contain affiliate links

Old fashioned vs. Manhattan (Which one is better?)

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Ah, the age old question: Old fashioned vs. Manhattan. Two of the most classic cocktails out there, but what sets them apart?

In short, the a classic Old fashioned is like that old friend who always keeps it simple yet classy.

Made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a splash of water, this drink is all about highlighting the flavors of the whiskey. It's like a sophisticated version of a whiskey neat.

On the other hand, the Manhattan is like the cool, suave cousin who knows how to bring the party. It's made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, and often garnished with a cherry.

The sweet vermouth gives it a more complex flavor profile, and the cherry adds a playful touch.

What is an Old Fashioned?

old fashioned

Let me tell you all about the Old fashioned - the OG cocktail that's never gone out of style.

First things first, let's talk taste. This drink is all about savoring the flavor of the whiskey.

You get a hint of sweetness from the sugar, a punch of bitterness from the bitters, and a splash of water to open up the flavors.

It's like taking a sip of liquid gold that goes down smooth and leaves a rich, warm aftertaste.

What makes the Old fashioned so special? It's simple, yet sophisticated. It's a cocktail that you can order at any bar and still feel like a classy adult, even if you're secretly intimidated by the bartender's mustache. It's a drink that's stood the test of time.

People like it because it's the ultimate comfort drink.

It's what you sip on after a long day at work, or when you need a moment to unwind.

It's a drink that commands respect, but doesn't take itself too seriously.

It's a classic that will never go out of style and will always be there for you.

Ingredients in an old fashioned:

  • Whiskey
  • Bitters
  • Sugar

What is a Manhattan?

manhattan cocktail

The Manhattan is one of those cocktails that's so edgy and cool, it's practically the James Dean of drinks.

The Manhattan is not for the faint of heart. It hits you with a bold flavor profile - a mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It's like a party in your mouth that's both sweet and bitter at the same time.

And let's not forget that cherry on top, which adds just the right amount of playful flair.

So what makes the Manhattan special? It's all about that perfect balance of sweet and bitter. It's like the yin and yang of cocktails.

But it's not just the taste that makes it stand out - it's the vibe. The Manhattan exudes an air of sophistication and class.

It's the go-to drink for the effortlessly cool. It's for those who want to feel like an old-school movie star, or a secret agent on a mission.

It's a drink that commands attention and respect, and lets the drinker feel like they're in control.

Ingredients in a Manhattan:

  • Whiskey
  • Bitters
  • Vermouth

What's the Difference Between Manhattan and the Old Fashioned Different?

manhattan vs old fashioned

When comparing the Old Fashioned and Manhattan cocktails, there are a few key differences to note.

The Old Fashioned is a simpler drink that's made by muddling sugar and bitters with whiskey and garnished with a citrus peel. Its flavor profile is straightforward and highlights the whiskey, making it perfect for those who prefer a more straightforward, classic drink.

The Manhattan, on the other hand, is a bit more complex, made with sweet vermouth, bitters, and whiskey, and garnished with a cherry. It has a more nuanced and varied flavor profile that combines sweetness, bitterness, and bold whiskey notes.

Overall, which one to choose depends on your taste preferences - do you want a simple, classic taste, or are you in the mood for something a bit more complex and nuanced?

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Jack

Hi, I'm Jack, a seasoned bartender on a mission to help you craft delightful cocktails at home through easy-to-follow recipes and creative twists on classics – all without the stuffy mixology jargon. Grab your shaker, let's have fun, and impress your friends together!

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