Whiskey cocktail elevated with pandan
The Manhattan is one of the oldest and most respected cocktails in the world. Since the late nineteenth century, this iconic combination of whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters has been celebrated for its depth, balance and sophistication.
In this Bandoeng’22 interpretation, part of the vermouth is replaced with Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur. The result is a Manhattan that retains its rich whiskey character while introducing subtle notes of vanilla, fragrant rice and gentle spice.
Smooth, complex and elegant, this is a cocktail for those who appreciate timeless classics with a modern twist.
Ingredients
- 50 ml (1.75 oz) Rye Whiskey or Bourbon
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Sweet Vermouth
- 15 ml (0.5 oz) Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Luxardo cherry (garnish)
- Pandan leaf (garnisch)
- Glassware Nick & Nora glass or Coupe glass
- Cubed ice
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur and bitters.
- Stir for approximately 20 seconds until properly chilled and diluted.
- Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
Taste profile
Rich notes of oak, caramel and baking spices lead the way, followed by subtle hints of vanilla and pandan. The vermouth provides herbal complexity, while the bitters add structure and balance. The finish is smooth, warming and slightly exotic without losing the unmistakable identity of a Manhattan.
Why pandan works with whiskey
Whiskey naturally develops flavours of vanilla, caramel, toasted wood and spice during maturation. Pandan shares many of these aromatic characteristics, making it a surprisingly natural partner. Rather than competing with the whiskey, pandan enhances its softer side and rounds out the herbal notes of the vermouth, creating a richer and more approachable Manhattan.
Perfect for
- After dinner
- Whiskey enthusiasts
- Classic cocktail lovers
- Autumn and winter evenings
Interested in more Pandan Liqueur cocktail recipes?
Discover more of our favorite pandan cocktails we call the Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur Perfect Serves; Pandan Spritz, Pandan Negroni, Pandan Coconut Mule or Pandan Gimlet
Food pairing
The Bandoeng’22 Pandan Manhattan pairs beautifully with:
- Dry-aged steak
- Smoked duck breast
- Aged cheeses
- Dark chocolate
- Candied nuts
- Indonesian spekkoek
