The Best Whiskeys for a Sophisticated Manhattan

Written by Taster's Club Internal Team | Published May 2025

1. Rittenhouse Rye 100 Proof

This rye whiskey is rooted in America’s distilling history. Rittenhouse Rye 100 Proof is produced by Heaven Hill Distillery and adheres to the classic Bottled-in-Bond Act standards. Its journey begins with a meticulous mashbill of rye, corn, and malted barley. From there, it undergoes aging in charred oak barrels.

Why it pairs well: This whiskey’s bold and spicy notes of rye grain cut through the sweetness of vermouth. The subtle vanilla and oak then add depth to a Manhattan. An honest and perfect pairing.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 50.0% | 750ml

2. Knob Creek 9-Year Bourbon

Knob Creek 9-Year Bourbon is a celebrated product of famous Jim Beam and was introduced in 1992 as part of Booker Noe’s Small Batch Bourbon Collection. This fine bottle is aged for 9 years in charred American oak barrels. The extended aging process gives it depth and complexity and is what sets it apart from other bourbons.

Why it pairs well: The warm notes of toasted oak and hints of vanilla on the nose complement the sweet notes of the vermouth. This bourbon's long and smooth finish brings balance to every sip of your Manhattan.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 50.0% | 750ml

3. High West Double Rye

This bold and spicy whiskey is crafted by High West Distillery in Utah and features a mix of two distinct rye whiskeys. High West sources premium grains and relies on a meticulous blending process to create a spirit that balances robust flavors with refined complexity.

Why it pairs well: The fresh herbs and pine on the nose complement the vermouth's herbal complexity. On the palate, the sharp rye spice balances the sweetness. While the dry and quick finish leaves notes of clove and mint.

Region: Utah, USA | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml

4. Laws Whisky House Bonded Bourbon

This bourbon by Laws Whiskey House adheres to Bottled-in-Bond standards and is aged for at least four years in federally bonded warehouses. The small-batch process emphasizes traditional open-air fermentation and a meticulous grain-to-glass approach from locally sourced grains.

Why it pairs well: Its creamy vanilla and sweet caramel notes on the nose and palette provide a rich and approachable base. The subtle oak finish balances the drinks sweetness.

Region: Colorado, USA | ABV: 50.0% | 750ml

5. Michter’s Rye

Michter’s Rye is rooted in a legacy that dates back to America's first whiskey company from 1753. This small-batch rye is made from carefully selected American rye grains and aged in fire-charred, new American oak barrels. This bottle is widely enjoyed for its balance and versatility.

Why it pairs well: The floral aromas and hints of orange zest complement the cocktail’s sweet flavors. While the spice from peppercorn and toffee adds depth. Its slightly smoky finish creates a rich and timeless Manhattan.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 42.40% | 750ml

6. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

This cask strength bourbon is uncut and unfiltered, bottled straight from the barrel to maintain its natural character. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength uses a mash bill with a high wheat content to deliver a smoother taste compared to rye-heavy bourbons.

Why it pairs well: This whiskey’s rich molasses and oak on the nose lay a bold foundation. The sweet vanilla and cinnamon notes complement the bitters and vermouth. The creamy finish adds depth and sophistication to your cocktail.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 56.60% | 750ml

7. Sagamore Spirit Bottled in Bond Rye

Sagamore Spirit Bottled in Bond Rye is crafted in accordance with the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897. This rye is distilled in a single season and aged for at least four years in federally bonded warehouses and bottled at 100 proof. Its creation involves blending two distinct rye mash bills, one high rye and one low rye for beautiful balance.

Why it pairs well: This whiskey’s cracked peppercorn and sweet cherry notes shine through in a classic Manhattan. The zesty citrus beautifully complements the vermouth. While the rich brown sugar adds depth and balance.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 51.50% | 750ml

8. Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Basil Hayden’s Bourbon traces its roots back to 1796 when Basil Hayden Sr. crafted a unique bourbon recipe that set it apart. This bottle is known for its lower proof and lighter style with its high-rye mash bill. This bourbon is then aged in charred oak barrels.

Why it pairs well: This whiskey’s honeyed sweetness and gentle spice balance beautifully with the bitters for a smooth Manhattan. The crisp and smooth finish of oak notes leaves you with a lasting impression.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 40.0% | 750ml

9. WhistlePig 10-Year Rye

WhistlePig’s flagship whiskey is sourced from premium rye distillate. Where it then undergoes an extensive aging process in American oak barrels before being finished in custom Vermont oak casks. This dual-barrel aging brings a distinctive complexity. Making it a great choice for a cocktail with depth.

Why it pairs well: Bold caramel and baking spice notes provide a rich backbone, perfectly complementing the drink’s sweetness. The long and butterscotch finish ties everything together, so each sip is balanced.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 50.0% | 750ml

10. Wild Turkey Longbranch

Longbranch is a popular bottle co-created by actor Matthew McConaughey and Master Distiller Eddie Russell. This small-batch bourbon is refined using a signature process that incorporates Texas mesquite and oak charcoals, inspired by McConaughey’s Texas roots. The result is a bourbon that balances classic smoothness with a smoky and distinctive character.

Why it pairs well: Longbranch’s silky smooth palate of rich caramel and subtle mesquite notes pairs seamlessly with the sweetness of a Manhattan. The smoky and warm finish of lingering citrus zest adds depth and balance to each sip.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 55.0% | 750ml