Virgin Manhattan Mocktail
Quick Answer
A Virgin Manhattan is the alcohol-free version of the classic Manhattan cocktail. Instead of rye or bourbon and sweet vermouth, it uses a blend of cranberry juice, orange juice, a little cherry and lemon juice, and a couple of dashes of orange bitters to capture the same rich, cherry-forward flavor without the alcohol. Shake it with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a maraschino cherry crushed against the side for that signature look. It is quick to make, refreshing, and a great option for anyone who wants the ritual and taste of a classic cocktail while skipping the spirits. Prefer the original? Try our smoked Manhattan for the full-strength version.
A Virgin Manhattan is a great drink for anyone who loves classic Manhattan but wants to avoid alcohol.
This recipe uses cherry juice and bitters to give it the same flavor as a traditional Manhattan, but without the bourbon.
The History Behind Virgin Manhattan Drinks
The history of the classy cocktail goes back to the mid-1870s and early 1880s.
It is said to be invented at a banquet hosted in honor of Samuel J. Tilden – who was the presidential candidate, by Jennie Jerome at the Manhattan Club in New York City.
The cocktail is also mentioned in some prominent books of the century on various cocktails with details of their recipes.
Traditionally, the standard Manhattan cocktail is a mix of two parts of rye whiskey, one part of sweet vermouth, and two dashes of bitters served with a cherry on top.
However, people have changed the type of whiskey to suit their taste buds.
Now, a variety of ingredients ranging from Bourbon to even cranberry juice -like we'll be showing you later - are used for making this iconic cocktail.
In addition to these, there are other variations to these cocktails too that are made by altering the proportions or changing the alcohol type in it.
Non Alcoholic Manhattan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz cranberry juice
- 1 3/4 oz orange juice
- 1/2 tsp Cherry juice
- 1/4 tsp lemon juice
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry for that classic look
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Add ice to a mixing glass, and shake all the ingredients.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Add the cherry and use a spoon to crush it against the side of the glass.
- Stir again, and serve.
Recipe Notes
- This recipe makes one cocktail.
- Although alcohol-based, two dashes of bitters contain trace amounts of alcohol meaning this mocktail is still considered non-alcoholic.
- If you’d like to avoid alcohol altogether, replace the bitters with equal parts of orange and lime juice.
This Virgin Manhattan recipe is perfect for your next holiday party!
Whether you're looking for a non-alcoholic option or trying to be mindful of your alcohol intake, this drink is for you.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, this mocktail is sure to be a crowd pleaser. You can also try it smoked using our Smoke Lid Kit
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Virgin Manhattan completely alcohol-free?
It is essentially alcohol-free. The only ingredient that contains any alcohol is the couple of dashes of bitters, which carry only trace amounts, so the drink is generally considered a mocktail. If you want it 100% alcohol-free, use non-alcoholic bitters or leave them out and add a small splash of extra cherry juice for depth.
What does a Virgin Manhattan taste like?
It is fruity and cherry-forward with a pleasant tartness from the cranberry and a bright lift from the orange and lemon. The bitters add the aromatic, slightly spiced note that makes it read like a real Manhattan rather than just a juice blend, so it feels grown-up and balanced rather than sweet.
How is it different from a regular Manhattan?
A classic Manhattan is built on rye or bourbon and sweet vermouth with a couple of dashes of bitters. The virgin version swaps the spirits for a mix of cranberry, orange, cherry, and lemon juices, keeping the color, the cherry garnish, and the bittered aromatic character while removing the alcohol.
Can you make a Virgin Manhattan for kids or a party punch?
Yes. Leave out the bitters (or use an alcohol-free version) for a fully kid-friendly drink, and it scales up easily — just multiply the juices and mix in a pitcher over ice. It is a good non-alcoholic option to have alongside cocktails when you are hosting.
What can I use instead of cherry juice?
A splash of the liquid from a jar of maraschino cherries works perfectly and adds that classic sweetness and color. Grenadine is another easy substitute; use a little less, since it is sweeter, and adjust to taste.
