Manhattan Vs Old Fashioned Which Is Sweeter

Sipping Through History: Manhattan vs Old Fashioned - The Sweet Showdown

Ever found yourself in a bind at the bar, staring at the menu, wondering, "Should I go classic or vintage tonight?" We're talking about the age-old debate: Manhattan vs Old Fashioned. Both are timeless, both are delicious, but which one is sweeter? Let's dive in, shall we?

First Things First: The Ingredients

Imagine you're in your kitchen, ready to whip up a storm. You've got your trusty bottle of bourbon (or rye, if you're feeling fancy), some sweet vermouth, a dash of bitters, and a sugar cube. That's your Old Fashioned right there. Simple, straightforward, like your grandpa's favorite sweater.

Now, for the Manhattan, you've got the same bourbon or rye, but you're swapping the sweet vermouth for dry vermouth. You're also adding a dash of bitters and, here's the kicker, a maraschino cherry to garnish. It's like your grandma's favorite dress - elegant, sophisticated, but still comfortable.

Sweetness Unveiled

Now, let's talk sweetness. The Old Fashioned is like that one friend who's always honest with you. It's straightforward about its sweetness. The sugar cube adds a clear, upfront sweetness that you can't miss. It's like biting into a ripe, juicy peach on a summer's day.

The Manhattan, on the other hand, is more like that other friend who's always full of surprises. The sweetness is more subtle, hiding behind the dry vermouth and the bitters. It's like finding a hidden candy in your pocket while you're out for a walk on a crisp autumn afternoon.

Manhattan vs Old Fashioned | Blog - A Bar Above | Manhattan recipe

Why Should You Care?

You might be thinking, "Who cares if one's sweeter than the other? They're both just drinks, right?" Well, hold your horses there, partner. The sweetness of these cocktails can completely change the way you experience them.

If you're in the mood for something comforting, something that reminds you of home, the Old Fashioned is your guy. It's sweet, it's warm, it's like a hug in a glass. But if you're feeling adventurous, if you want to explore new flavors and surprises, the Manhattan is your gal.

Old Fashioned Difference Manhattan at Rebecca Douglas blog

The Great Debate

So, which one is sweeter? Well, that's up to you. It's like choosing between chocolate cake and apple pie. Both are delicious, both have their own unique charm. The sweetness is subjective, just like beauty. It's all in the eye (or rather, the taste) of the beholder.

So next time you're at the bar, don't be afraid to ask for a taste test. After all, the only way to truly know which one is sweeter is to try them both. And who knows? You might just discover a new favorite. Cheers!