Tequila Manhattan Recipe: The Altos Añejo Version

What is a Tequila Manhattan cocktail?

A Manhattan cocktail is traditionally made with whiskey and sweet vermouth, finished off with a twist of orange peel. It takes its name from the iconic New York City borough and is the sort of drink best enjoyed slowly, ideal for those moments when you want to savour each sip without compromising on strength or character.

But what variations exist beyond the original? Swapping out the whiskey for tequila transforms the classic into something entirely new. Enter the Tequila Manhattan—a bold reinterpretation that bridges two nations through the language of mixology, blending the deep-rooted traditions of American cocktail culture with the agave spirit of Mexico.

The bitters add an extra layer of depth and complexity, elevating the drink beyond a standard serve and making each sip more nuanced and satisfying. It’s a refined twist on a classic that tequila lovers are sure to appreciate.

When we set out to craft our own take on this timeless classic, we knew it had to strike the perfect balance between sophistication and a sense of fun—because that’s exactly what our customers bring to the table: refined taste, without ever taking life too seriously.

So we gave the Manhattan a signature Altos twist. Our version is made using 100% organic agave nectar, delivering a smoothness so indulgent, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re sipping a world-class cocktail in a luxury bar. Even if you’re enjoying it from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Our Altos Añejo Manhattan Interpretation

When we embarked on crafting our own take on this timeless cocktail, we recognised it needed to embody elegance. We also understood it had to capture a sense of enjoyment—because our clientele appreciate refinement, whilst also knowing how to have a good time.

So we merged these two concepts with our own distinctive flourish: our Manhattan is prepared using 100% organic agave nectar. It’s so silky that you’ll feel as though you’re savouring the finest premium cocktail imaginable… even if you’re simply enjoying it in the comfort of your own lounge!

The Story Behind the Tequila Manhattan

The Manhattan is a cocktail that dates back to the 1870s and has since earned its place as one of the world’s most iconic and widely enjoyed drinks. The origins of this classic serve remain somewhat unclear. 

One of the earliest references appeared in The Democrat newspaper in 1882, which described a fashionable concoction made with whiskey, vermouth and bitters—known at the time under names like “Turf Club,” “Jockey Club,” and, of course, “Manhattan.” Curiously, another source from 1945 claimed the drink had already featured in a bar guide as far back as 1860. 

Yet cocktail historian Robert Vermeire, in his book The Art of the Bar, disputed one of the most popular tales—that Jenny Jerome (Lady Churchill and Winston Churchill’s mother) created the drink during a political celebration at The Manhattan Club in 1874. According to Vermeire, she wasn’t even married to Lord Randolph Churchill at the time of the supposed event.

Regardless of its precise origins, the Manhattan has become a pillar of cocktail culture. Olmeca Altos offers a full range of best cocktail recipes worth discovering. Each of these cocktails showcases the versatility and quality of our tequilas, whether you’re hosting a soirée or simply indulging at home.

Other Variations of the Manhattan

While the traditional Manhattan uses whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters, this cocktail offers endless opportunities for personalisation. By tweaking proportions or introducing new flavour notes, you can create something truly your own. Here are a few takes to inspire your next mix:

• The Standard Manhattan: Made with rye whiskey instead of bourbon and dry vermouth in place of sweet, this version packs more spice and edge.
• The Perfect Manhattan: A balanced blend of bourbon or rye with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, finished with a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. No garnish needed. Simple and refined.
• The Manhattan Sazerac: A bold twist using Cognac instead of rye, paired with Peychaud’s bitters and a touch of absinthe for added complexity and herbal depth.

Discover More Tequila Cocktails from Olmeca Altos

We offer a wide selection of tequila-based drinks, though there aren’t many refined tequila cocktails quite like this Manhattan creation. Nevertheless, Altos has curated a collection featuring our most celebrated and sophisticated serves. Do give them a go!

• The Altos Margarita Recipe remains amongst the most renowned tequila cocktails.
• Our Sazerac Cocktail prepared with tequila reposado.
• A Tequila Sour featuring 1 egg white and tequila reposado.

Choose Premium Añejo for a Superior Serve

If you’re after the perfect tequila to elevate your Manhattan, look no further than Olmeca Altos Añejo. Distilled in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, and made with 100% blue agave, it offers a smooth, rounded flavour that pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of vermouth.

Tequila has seen a resurgence in recent years—not just as a spirit for celebrations, but as a serious base for refined cocktails. And with Altos, you’re not just choosing tequila—you’re choosing craft, heritage, and exceptional taste in every pour.