Martini

Clear dry Martini in a stemmed V-shaped glass with three olives on a pick

Gin and dry vermouth, stirred cold enough to hurt. Every argument about this drink is really an argument about one ratio.

Manhattan

Amber Manhattan in a coupe with a dark cherry garnish

Rye, sweet vermouth and bitters. Two ingredients and a dash, and the vermouth is the one that decides whether it works.