How to Make a Classic Rum Manhattan Cocktail

This post is sponsored by 1888 Rum.
All opinions are my own.

I’ve been thinking everything is better with rum, so here’s a simple twist on a classic: swap 1888 Rum for the usual bourbon in a Manhattan. With just three main ingredients — the spirit, sweet vermouth, and bitters — the cocktail showcases whatever rum you choose, so use one you’d happily sip on its own.

A little about 1888 Rum

1888 Rum is a premium, double-aged rum. It spends up to eight years in ex-bourbon American oak casks, followed by a secondary aging of up to six years in European oak sherry casks. That careful aging produces a silky, complex spirit that stands up beautifully in cocktails and is also enjoyable neat.

How to make the 1888 Rum Manhattan

Place the rum, sweet vermouth, and a couple dashes of Angostura bitters into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir for 30–45 seconds until well chilled, then strain into a chilled glass — neat or over a single large cube or sphere. Finish with a Maraschino cherry garnish.

Rum Manhattan

Author: Justin McChesney-Wachs

5 from 1 vote

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Total 5 minutes mins

A Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that evokes the classic cocktail culture of mid-century bars and lounges.

Servings 1 drink

Course Drink

Cuisine American

Ingredients

• 2 oz Dark Rum (I recommend 1888 Rum)
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Maraschino Cherry for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine the rum, bitters, and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir for 30–45 seconds until well chilled, then strain into a chilled glass.
3. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry and serve.

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Thank you to 1888 Rum for sponsoring this post!