The Recipe · No.1102 · Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail)
Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail), and where to source it
Spirit-forward drinks are stirred, never shaken. Shaking clouds it and beats in air, and you want this crystal clear and silky, so stir with ice for 30 seconds and strain it into a chilled coupe.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep4 min
Cook0 min
Makesmakes 1
CuisineBitter
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for1servings
Our ratio, your call. The amounts below are a tested starting point — a version, not the one and only. Anything tagged to taste is the knob you turn: start there, then make it yours.
Non-alcoholic whiskey alternative
A zero-proof whiskey with oak and spice carries this drink. Two-thirds of the glass is this, so it has to taste like something.
2 ozto taste
Local / market
Non-alcoholic sweet vermouth
Zero-proof sweet vermouth brings the sweetness and depth that balances the whiskey.
1 ozrecommended
Local / market
Aromatic bitters
A couple dashes of aromatic bitters. These are non-alcoholic in the amount used and give the drink its baking-spice edge.
2 dashesrecommended
Local / market
Brandied or fresh cherry
One real cherry for garnish. The syrup adds a touch of sweetness as you reach the bottom.
1 cherryrecommended
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer●●●●●Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks.
EffortEasy
Cook it with
No-cook
The Method
StirCombine whiskey alternative, vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass over ice. Stir 30 seconds until cold and silky.
Can you make Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail) in an air fryer? — Not needed
No cooking needed here — this one comes together without heat, so the air fryer sits it out.
Can you freeze Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail)? — Yes
Yes — cool it, portion into airtight containers, and freeze; thaw in the fridge and reheat.
Can you make Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail) ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it needs the chill time to set, so making it ahead is the whole point.
Is Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail) gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Virgin Manhattan (Manhattan Mocktail) vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
Made it, tweaked it, or recognize which restaurant this tastes like? Leave a note — first-name basis, no account.