1-First Step: Make the blood rim Start by combining 1/4 cup corn syrup and 2 teaspoons red food coloring in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir well until the color looks evenly red. Microwave the mixture for 45 seconds to 1 minute until it starts bubbling. Let it cool to room temperature before using it, because a hot syrup can become too thick and clumpy on the glass.

2-Second Step: Prep the glass Choose your serving glass and get it ready for the rim. When the syrup mixture has cooled, lightly dip just the rim into it. You want a spooky edge, not a full coating. A light dip gives the best effect and keeps the drink neat enough to sip comfortably.

3-Third Step: Add the cocktail ingredients Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Then add 2 ounces whiskey, 2 ounces sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of bitters. This keeps the drink cool and gives it a smooth, well-balanced taste. Stir the mixture until it is chilled. You do not need to shake it hard, since a Manhattan style drink is usually stirred for a cleaner texture.

4-Fourth Step: Strain and serve Strain the chilled drink into your prepared glass. At this stage, the red rim should look dramatic and festive, almost like a little Halloween costume for the glass. The cocktail itself should look deep and rich, with a nice contrast against the bright rim.

5-Final Step: Garnish and enjoy Finish with 1 maraschino cherry for garnish. If you use one with a stem, it will be easier to place and lift out later. Serve right away while the drink is cold and the rim still looks sharp. Since the whole process takes only a few minutes, this is a great last-minute cocktail for parties, movie nights, or a spooky date night at home.