If you insist on serving cocktails to a group, most stirred cocktails can be batched. The classic Manhattan is the perfect candidate, and you can tailor the choice of bitters to fit the occasion—ginger or apple blossom bitters would work well for fall. These batched Manhattans can be served out of a pitcher and should be served all at once while cold rather than allowing them to warm. Be warned that this is a 26% ABV cocktail, not a punch, so those small cups are a must.
¼oz.bitters(suggested: Angostura Aromatic, Hella Bitters Ginger, or Hella Bitters Apple Blossom)
10½oz.very cold water (chill with ice and strain)
Instructions
Combine the rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a 1-liter plastic bottle and squeeze out any excess air.
Put in freezer for 2 hours.
When ready to serve, combine the spirits with the ice water (do not include the ice) in a large pitcher. Serve entire pitcher to guests in small glasses.