How are ingredients prepared for a Southern Comfort Manhattan?

In preparing a Southern Comfort Manhattan, the ingredients are typically stirred, which is the traditional method for making this cocktail. Stirring the mixture allows the flavors to meld together while still maintaining the clarity and smoothness of the drink. It is important to chill the ingredients effectively without diluting them too much, which is achieved through stirring with ice.

Shaking, which is more appropriate for cocktails containing juices or heavier ingredients, is not the best method for a Manhattan since it can introduce unwanted air and change the texture of the drink. Blending aggressively would create an entirely different cocktail experience and could overly aerate and break down the ingredients, losing the intended flavor profile. Pouring directly into the glass would not thoroughly integrate the flavors of Southern Comfort with other components such as sweet vermouth. Steeping for flavor is not applicable here, as it implies a cooling method, which wouldn’t yield the desired texture or temperature for a cocktail like the Manhattan.

Thus, stirring is the correct preparation method, as it best achieves the balance, temperature, and clarity desired in this classic cocktail.