FOOD NEWS
The Sweet Distinction Between Old Fashioned And Manhattan Cocktails
BY AUTUMN SWIERS
The Old Fashioned and Manhattan are two classic, straightforward cocktails that appear to be similar, but the ways these drinks are sweetened are quite different.
Old Fashioneds are sweetened either with a sugar cube or sugar-and-water simple syrup, but Manhattans are sweetened with sweet vermouth, a type of fortified wine.
A sugar cube in an Old Fashioned is muddled with water and bitters in the bottom of the glass, then whiskey is mixed in. You can add additional flavors like cherry or orange.
A traditional Manhattan combines rye whiskey, Angostura bitters, and sweet vermouth with a brandied or Luxardo cherry. The vermouth cancels out the need for added sugar.
Plain white sugar makes Old Fashioneds pretty consistent, but the type of sweet vermouth you use can make a significant difference in your Manhattan’s flavor profile.
For instance, Antica Torino Vermouth di Torino has floral, aromatic flavors and a bitter finish, while Vermut Lustau is a nutty, cherry-tasting wine with a sweeter flair.