There is little doubt in my mind that the Manhattan is the greatest cocktail ever created. Nothing else has even come close, and doubtless nothing ever will. Having already elucidated on the Martini and the Sazerac I need not spend too much time expounding on from whence the Manhattan sprang: it’s the Whiskey Cocktail with vermouth in it, it’s the Martini’s cooler, older brother. If Martinis are the afternoon, Manhattans are the evening. If Martinis are for business, Manhattans are for pleasure. Any bartender worth their salt smiles inside when a guest orders a Manhattan.