Like its namesake city, the Manhattan is elegant but uncompromising and invulnerable to fashion’s changing whims. 

2 oz rye whisky (or, if you must, bourbon)

1 oz sweet vermouth

2 dashes Angostura bitters

Garnish: brandied cherry or lemon twist

Pour rye whisky, sweet vermouth and bitters into a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry or, if you prefer, a lemon twist. Serves 1.