March Cocktail Madness 2026: Manhattan Moves On!

Round 1 has officially started!

Round One: Manhattan moves on!

For the second matchup in a row the lower seed has moved on!

The Manhattan moves on!

In this first-round matchup, the 5-seed Manhattan went head-to-head with the 4-seed Mojito and pulled off a smooth upset! While the Mojito brought its bright, minty freshness, the Manhattan’s bold, balanced depth proved impossible to ignore. Rich, refined, and undeniably timeless, it’s a reminder that sometimes the classics don’t just compete—they win.

Celebrate with a Classic: Manhattan

To celebrate the victory, we’re going back to the original. The classic Manhattan is all about balance—warm whiskey, a touch of sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters come together for something smooth, spirit-forward, and effortlessly elegant. Stirred and served with a cherry, it’s a cocktail that proves simplicity, when done right, is everything.

🥃 Featuring: Alexander James Rye Whiskey

For this round, we’re spotlighting Alexander James Rye Whiskey, a bottle that leans into bold flavor while keeping one foot firmly rooted in tradition.

Crafted with intention and a respect for classic whiskey-making, Alexander James highlights the spice-forward character that makes rye so distinctive. It’s a style that doesn’t shy away from complexity, offering layers of warmth, subtle sweetness, and that signature peppery kick.

Their rye shines in spirit-forward cocktails like the Manhattan, exactly where a whiskey with structure and depth can truly stand out. It’s the kind of pour that holds its own, sip after sip.

Cheers to brands that honor tradition while carving out their own lane. 🥂

Get in on the Madness!

Follow along, cast your votes, and try the cocktails as the tournament unfolds. Whether you are revisiting a classic like the Old Fashioned or mixing up something bright and refreshing like a Mojito, every round is a chance to celebrate great drinks.

Follow us on social media (@HopScotchandGrape), cast your votes, and let the Cocktail Madness begin! 🍹🔥

Because Diversity is the taste of life®!

Remember to enjoy responsibly.