Manhattan

The Manhattan is undoubtedly an object of reverence in the cocktail world. According to David Wondrich, it is the only cocktail that can stand up to the Martini. The balance is just so impeccable. It is intense and relaxing at the same time, but, as with many other cocktails, the key is in proper building. The Manhattan has spawned countless variants. Virtually any modification on the ingredients yields a whole new cocktail. Its origins remain somewhat of a mystery. Popular lore suggests that the Manhattan was created by Dr. Iain Marshall at an event hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill—yes, Winston's mother—in honor of presidential candidate Samuel J. Tilden. However, given that Lady Churchill was both in France and pregnant at the time, the story is likely nothing but a myth. Whatever the origins of this cocktail, it is undeniably a sip of history.