Strong, smooth and undeniably stylish, the Manhattan is one of the great classic cocktails. Traditionally made with whisky, vermouth and bitters, it’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’re in an old New York bar, even if you’re just on the couch at home.
Thanks to Lyre’s, you can now enjoy a Manhattan without the alcohol. Their American Malt brings rich notes of oak and vanilla, while the Apéritif Rosso adds the fruity, slightly bitter character you’d expect from a quality vermouth. A couple of dashes of bitters tie it all together. The result is a grown-up, zero-proof cocktail with plenty of depth.
Non-Alcoholic Manhattan Recipe
Ingredients:
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60ml Lyre’s American Malt
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2 dashes aromatic bitters - whilst 44% ABV (alcohol by volume) when used in this quantity the overall ABV of the cocktail will be less than 1%, less than many kombuchas!
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Ice
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Maraschino cherry, to garnish
Method:
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Add the American Malt, Apéritif Rosso and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
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Stir gently for 15–20 seconds until chilled.
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Strain into a chilled martini or coupette glass.
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Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Why It Works
The American Malt brings the backbone of a whisky-style spirit, full of caramel and toasted notes. The Apéritif Rosso adds balance with fruity sweetness and herbal bitterness. Together with bitters, it recreates the complex flavour of a Manhattan without the alcohol.
Variations to Try
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Smoky Manhattan: Add a few drops of smoke essence to mimic a peated whisky.
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Cherry Manhattan: Muddle a cherry in the mixing glass before stirring for extra fruitiness.
Final Thoughts
The Non-Alcoholic Manhattan made with Lyre’s is rich, smooth and sophisticated - proof that booze-free cocktails can have just as much character as the classics. Perfect for dinner parties, late-night sipping or whenever you’re craving something a little more serious.
Raise your glass and channel your inner New Yorker - this is one zero-proof cocktail that’s always in style.
