Rob Roy Cocktail Vs Manhattan: What's The Difference?

Manhattan and Rob Roy cocktails have been around for over one hundred years. The first Manhattan was served around the 1870s (its first written shout-out is in 1882) with the Rob Roy following sometime in the 1890s. At first glance, these two classic drinks look the same, but there's one important difference you'll notice upon the first sip.

Manhattans are a combination of sweet vermouth, bitters, and rye whiskey. However, instead of using rye whiskey, Rob Roy cocktails are made of sweet vermouth, bitters, and Scotch whisky (the e is dropped in the Scottish version, which is a noticeably different spirit anyway). Rye whiskey adds spicy notes to a Manhattan, while Scotch gives a Rob Roy a pleasant and distinct smoky edge.

Another difference between the two cocktails is the glasses in which they are typically served. A Manhattan is often served in a rocks glass, but a Rob Roy more often arrives in a martini glass. The wide rims of both types of vessels allow the complex aromas to hit your nose before you take the first sip, which is a big advantage that helps you more fully appreciate the complex character of both drinks.

The small amount of bitters in both drinks enhances the flavor of the cocktails. Bitters are flavor extracts made with neutral-flavored alcohol and a variety of tasty and aromatic herbs, spices, and plants. They are used sparingly in cocktails to add depth to a drink and are available in many flavors.

You would think a drink called a Manhattan would have been created in honor of the New York City borough. However, the story goes that the cocktail actually got its name because it was first concocted at the Manhattan Club (which is admittedly located in its namesake borough). The moniker of Rob Roy, on the other hand, allegedly gives a nod to an operetta about a famous Scotsman by the same name put on at Manhattan's now-demolished Herald Square Theatre.

If you're making either of these drinks at home, be sure you don't skip the garnish. The traditional accompaniment for both drinks is a maraschino cherry, which gives the beverage a sweet finish. Try using brandied cherries for a boozy pop of flavor, or slip a bit of cherry juice in the cocktail to add a touch of sweetness.