How to Make a Classic 50:50 Manhattan

The Classic 50:50 Manhattan 

1 1/2 ounce Vya Sweet Vermouth
1 1/2 ounce rye whiskey (or bourbon if you prefer)
3 dashes Regan’s orange bitters (or your preferred bitters)

Combine ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into glassware. Garnish with an orange twist.

The original 1870s Manhattan created at the Manhattan Club in New York called for equal parts vermouth and whiskey. It’s difficult to use this recipe with just any vermouth – you need something neither too heavy nor too light, neither too bitter nor too bland. Vya Sweet hits that Goldilocks spot with whiskey. To really break it down, here’s why we think Vya makes a better Manhattan (this holds true for whichever ratio of whiskey to vermouth you prefer):

• Aroma: Vya Sweet includes Orange Muscat as part of its base: Orange Muscat is an incredibly aromatic grape and when you taste Vya Sweet, part of that luscious flavor is actually the orange blossom aroma of Orange Muscat.

• Balance: Vya Sweet is a symphony of spices and base-wines, expertly crafted by winemakers who specialize in fortified wines. As a balanced vermouth, it pairs wonderfully with finely crafted whiskey.

• Complexity: Vya Sweet integrates Quady Winery’s port-style wine, Starboard, as part of its base: the juicy, earthy notes of Starboard provide character and viscosity that marry well with spirits.

• Baking spices: Vya Sweet incorporates nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, ginger, and cardamom—baking spices that complement the vanilla notes in whiskey beautifully.

When Andrew Quady of Quady Winery created Vya Vermouth he found himself dreaming sweet memories of holiday baking in his grandmother’s kitchen. When you mix yourself and your friends a Vya Manhattan you just might find yourself dreaming of warm, cozy memories, while you make new ones. To find out more about Vya Vermouth, visit vya.com.