Dear ones,
I wandered into a cozy little spot in Manhattan today and, wouldn’t you know, I finally tried a Manhattan cocktail. Smooth, a little strong, and just the right touch of sweetness—much like the city itself. I sipped slowly, watching the world bustle by outside, and thought of you.With love,
Grandma
Grandma’s Late Night Treat
The Manhattan has stood the test of time, remaining one of the world’s most beloved cocktails for well over a century. Crafted with a balanced blend of whiskey, VARA Vermut Dulce Añejo and bitters, and finished with the signature maraschino cherry, it represents the very essence of classic mixology—bold, spirit-forward, and timelessly aromatic.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 1 oz VARA Vermut Dulce Añejo
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: brandied cherry (or lemon twist, if preferred)
HOW TO MAKE IT:
- 1 . Add the rye whiskey, VARA Vermut Dulce Añejo, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
- 2. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe glass.
- 3. Garnish with a brandied cherry (or a lemon twist, if preferred).
PAIR WITH:
Listening to jazz in a low-lit settingÂ
Enjoying a nightcap after a long day
A cozy night in with a movie or book
What I Learned
The Manhattan
- The Manhattan first appeared in the 1870s, when New York glittered with gaslights and Gilded Age parties.
- Rutherford B. Hayes was president, guiding a country still stitching itself back together after the Civil War.
- Artists like Monet and Degas in Europe were painting light and movement in daring new ways, just as the city pulsed with its own energy.
- Electricity was on the horizon — Edison was tinkering with inventions, and soon the nights of New York would glow brighter than anyone had ever imagined.
- Â
VARA Vermut Dulce Añejo
Crafted in New Mexico, but inspired by traditional Spanish-style vermouths.
“Dulce” means sweet
“Añejo” means aged — in this case, barrel-aged
This is VARA’s signature interpretation of classic Spanish vermouth: richly layered, lightly spiced, and elevated through thoughtful blending and modern winemaking.
Have your own take on the classic Manhattan?
Film it. Tag @varawines.
Let us know.
Your creation could be featured in our next class or card drop.
