March Cocktail Madness 2026: Manhattan Moves on to the Finals!!

The Final Four is here!

Semifinals: The Manhattan takes down the champ! 🥃

The stakes just got higher, and so did the drama!

The 5-seed Manhattan moves on and knocks out the defending champion!

In this semifinal showdown, the 5-seed Manhattan delivered a statement win over the 1-seed Margarita. The Margarita came in with confidence, still riding its championship legacy, bright, citrusy, and a crowd favorite, but the Manhattan brought a different kind of energy. Deep, spirit-forward, and undeniably refined, it proved that a well-built classic can go toe-to-toe with any fan favorite. In the end, balance, boldness, and a little old-school edge carried the Manhattan to the finals.

Celebrate with a Twist: Black Manhattan

To celebrate the win, we’re pouring up a darker, more brooding take on the classic. The Black Manhattan swaps sweet vermouth for amaro, adding layers of herbal complexity to the whiskey and bitters foundation. Rich, slightly bitter, and beautifully smooth, it’s a cocktail that leans into depth and character, perfect for a moment this bold.

🥃 Featuring: New Riff Distilling Rye Whiskey

For this round, we’re spotlighting New Riff Distilling Rye Whiskey, a bottle that leans into tradition while pushing rye forward with bold, modern energy.

Crafted with a commitment to quality and bottled-in-bond standards, this rye highlights everything that makes the style stand out. Warming spice, bright fruit notes, and a backbone of oak come together in a way that feels both structured and expressive.

This rye shines in cocktails like the Manhattan, where its spice and depth bring balance and character to every sip. It is just as rewarding neat, offering a rich, layered experience that showcases the beauty of a well-made rye.

Cheers to brands that honor the past while confidently shaping what comes next.

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.