What is an example of a spirit-forward cocktail?

A spirit-forward cocktail is one that primarily highlights the base spirit rather than a blend of multiple ingredients, particularly mixers. The Manhattan is a quintessential example of this category. It is made predominantly with whiskey, specifically rye or bourbon, and is combined with sweet vermouth and a few dashes of bitters. This simple yet classic mix emphasizes the flavors of the whiskey, making it a perfect representation of a spirit-forward drink.

In contrast, the other cocktails listed incorporate a more balanced mix of spirits and other ingredients. For instance, the Margarita features tequila along with lime juice and often orange liqueur, which can overshadow the tequila's flavor. The Whiskey Sour includes whiskey but is balanced with citrus juice and sugar, creating a more refreshing drink. The Pina Colada is a tropical cocktail that blends rum with coconut and pineapple, making it much sweeter and fruitier rather than spirit-forward. Thus, the Manhattan stands out as the clear representative of a spirit-forward cocktail.