How to mix a Manhattan (paired with bacon-wrapped dates)

Ah, the Manhattan. Named after the greatest place on earth. Its rich amber-red shimmer lights up any dark room. The anticipation of the first sip is high, so high in fact, that hardcore Manhattan tipplers will tell you instantly not only what kind of whiskey was used (rye, bourbon, blended), but what brand. For our Manhattan, we recommend rye whiskey (try Rittenhouse), sweet vermouth (try its cousin, Carpano Antica), and Angostura bitters. Plop in a marasche cherry rather than the neon-red maraschino cherries, and you have one hell of a cocktail. The Manhattan pairs perfectly with bacon-wrapped dates. The salty bacon clings to the sweet meaty dates, creating a tantalizing bite-sized appetizer sure to be a favorite at your next cocktail party.