A perfect cocktail refers to a stirred drink made with equal parts of sweet and dry vermouth. Bartender Cheyenne Paydar explains the term relates specifically to the ratio of vermouths used rather than drink quality. For example, a Perfect Manhattan comprises rye whiskey and Angostura bitters mixed with equal parts of dry and sweet vermouth, making it less sweet than a standard Manhattan. Paydar points out that many younger drinkers may not understand this distinction, as the terminology has evolved from a traditional bar culture.
"A perfect cocktail is traditionally a stirred cocktail using equal parts sweet and dry vermouth as the modifier," Paydar explains. "In certain cocktails, like the Martini and Manhattan, where solely dry and sweet vermouth are used, respectively, splitting the vermouth with its counterpart gives it the moniker 'perfect.'"
"In general, I don't believe the average guest under 35 knows that 'perfect' is in reference to measurements rather than quality," he says. "When I first started bartending, if someone ordered a Manhattan, I was to ask them 'Up or on the rocks?' 'Orange twist or cherry?' and 'Do you want it perfect?' This prerequisite is generally no longer in the exchange."
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