Barsys
Waxman-hattan
About
The Waxman-hattan Cocktail is a streamlined, spirit-forward classic - inspired by the Manhattan, but with a bit more ease and flexibility built in. Using either rye whiskey (for spice) or bourbon (for warmth), the drink pairs beautifully with sweet vermouth and the aromatic depth of Angostura bitters.
Stirred until perfectly chilled and garnished with a maraschino cherry, the Waxman-hattan Cocktail is elegant, balanced, and best appreciated when you want a cocktail that leans confident and timeless.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Stirring keeps the texture velvety and prevents over-dilution.
What You'll Need
Single Serve
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Garnish: Maraschino cherry (optional but recommended)
Pro Tip
Chill your mixing glass first - a colder stir keeps the drink cleaner, tighter, and perfectly balanced without watering it down.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Skill Level: Easy
- Add rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a coupe or rocks glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry if desired.
Using Barsys?
This cocktail works beautifully with the Barsys Coaster 2.0 Cocktail Maker Combo.
Barsys delivers exact pours of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, giving you a flawless base every time. You simply stir with ice and strain - perfect for service or at-home consistency when you want a Manhattan-style drink that lands just right.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
A Manhattan-style drink is all about ratio and dilution. Barsys ensures the spirits stay perfectly balanced so your Waxman-hattan Cocktail is never too sweet, too boozy, or too bitter - just smooth, aromatic, and consistently excellent.
Sip Setting
Ideal for late nights, dim lighting, slow conversations, and any moment where you want something classic, confident, and undeniably grown-up.
Garnish Game
A maraschino cherry is the traditional flourish - rich, sweet, and aromatic. If you’re feeling refined, try a luxardo cherry for extra depth.
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FAQs
Rye or bourbon - which is better?
Rye gives spice; bourbon gives warmth. You can’t go wrong.
Can I make it sweeter?
Increase sweet vermouth to 1.25 oz.
Can I make it drier?
Reduce vermouth slightly or add one extra dash of bitters.
Should I serve it on the rocks?
Yes, if you prefer a colder, more slowly diluting drink.
Can I batch it?
Absolutely - combine spirits in a bottle and refrigerate. Stir per serving.