The Jack and Coke is a simple and refreshing cocktail that combines the iconic flavors of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey and Coca-Cola. This two-ingredient drink is a go-to for many, offering a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying beverage. This article delves into the history, ingredients, variations, and preparation methods of the Jack and Coke, providing everything you need to know to make the perfect drink.
A Brief History
The Jack and Coke cocktail is a modern classic that brings together two iconic American brands: Jack Daniel's and Coca-Cola. Jack Daniel’s is a brand of whiskey made in Lynchburg, Tennessee by the Jack Daniel Distillery. The brand has been owned by Brown-Forman Corporation since 1956. Their most popular is Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey, which is known for its rectangular bottle and black label. Coca-Cola, needs no introduction as one of the most popular sodas in the world. The combination of these two drinks has become a staple in bars and homes around the globe.
What is Jack Daniel's?
Contrary to popular belief, Jack Daniel’s is not a type of bourbon. Like bourbon, Jack Daniel’s is another type of whiskey made in the United States.
Location: By law, bourbon must be made in the United States.
Proof: Bourbon must be distilled at no more than 160 proof, or 80% alcohol by volume.
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Mash bill: Also called a grain bill, Jack Daniel’s mash bill is 80% corn, 8% rye and 12% malted barley.
Fermentation: On the Jack label, it mentions it’s a sour mash whiskey, which bourbon is as well. This extra process is called charcoal mellowing, AKA the “Lincoln County Process,” in which it is filtered through 10-foot stacks of sugar maple charcoal. The premium bottle of Jack Daniel’s, called Gentleman Jack, is charcoal mellowed twice.
Key Ingredients
The Jack and Coke requires only two main ingredients, making it incredibly simple to prepare. However, the quality of these ingredients can significantly impact the final taste.
- Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey: The standard variety for this malt beverage is Old No. 7. This whiskey is known for its warm, vanilla aroma and smooth finish. Feel free to experiment with other Jack Daniel's varieties, such as Gentleman Jack, for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Coca-Cola: While some may argue that Coca-Cola is the only acceptable choice, other cola brands can also be used. Options include Pepsi, which is slightly sweeter than Coke, or Mexican Coke, which is made with real cane sugar instead of corn syrup. You could also make your own cola with a SodaStream and cola syrup.
- Ice: Adding ice to a Jack and Coke sounds pretty basic. And it is. But if you want to step your cocktail game up a notch or two use clear ice. Regular ice is usually cloudy which makes it weaker and melts faster than clear ice. What’s more, making this with clear ice in an old-fashioned glass just looks better and therefore will taste better!
- Optional Garnish: A lime or lemon wedge can add a refreshing citrus note to the cocktail, balancing the sweetness of the cola. Cherries are optional, for garnish.
How to Make a Jack and Coke
Making a Jack and Coke is straightforward, but following these steps will ensure a perfect drink every time:
- Chill the Glass: Start with a chilled, tall glass, such as a highball cocktail glass or collins glass.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice. The ice should fill about two-thirds of the glass to ensure proper chilling and dilution.
- Pour Whiskey: Pour 2 ounces of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey slowly over the ice, allowing it to settle. The whiskey should be at room temperature for the best flavor release and mixing. Putting some soda in the bottom of the glass helps mix the whisky without making the cola go flat. The carbonation will cause a mixing action so no stirring necessary.
- Top with Cola: Top with 5 ounces of cold Coca-Cola, pouring gently to maintain carbonation. The cola should be well-chilled from the refrigerator for optimal taste and refreshment.
- Garnish: Add a wedge of lime or lemon as a garnish.
- Stir Gently: Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Serve Immediately: Serve immediately while the cola is still fizzy and the drink is properly chilled.
Variations and Twists
While the classic Jack and Coke is a timeless favorite, there are several ways to customize the drink to suit your preferences:
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- Double Jack & Coke: Use twice the amount of Jack, and a little less Coke, for a stronger drink. A Double Jack & Coke is a delicious cocktail with twice as much whiskey. But be careful, these are very potent drinks!
- Gentleman Jack and Coke: Use the twice-mellowed Gentleman Jack, a premium bottle of Jack Daniel’s.
- Rum & Coke: Substitute rum for Jack Daniel’s to make another classic cocktail.
- Make it Low-Calorie: If you like diet cola, of course, you can use that here!
- Make it Non-Alcoholic: You don’t have to drink plain Coke!
- Try a Flavored Cola: Cherry Coke and Vanilla Coke would provide additional flavor for a fun twist.
- Frozen Jack and Coke: For a refreshing twist, blend Jack Daniel's and Coke with ice to create a frozen slushy. This is perfect for hot days and adds a fun, caffeinated kick to your cocktail routine. If you really like this recipe, make extra Coke ice so that the cubes are on hand whenever you want a frozen Jack Daniels and Coke.
- Add Some Citrus: A dash of fresh lemon juice or a couple of lime wedges adds a nice burst of flavor (and color) to this whiskey cola.
Tips for the Perfect Jack and Coke
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since there are only two main ingredients, make sure they are of good quality. Choose a Jack Daniel's whiskey that you enjoy and a cola that you prefer.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Keep both the whiskey and cola chilled for the best taste. This will help to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
- Don't Over Stir: Stir the drink gently to combine the ingredients without losing too much carbonation from the cola.
- Adjust the Ratio: Experiment with the ratio of whiskey to cola to find your perfect balance. A standard ratio is 2 ounces of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey to 5 ounces of Coca-Cola, but you can adjust this based on your preference for a more potent drink or milder cocktail.
- Serve Immediately: The Jack and Coke is best served immediately after preparation to enjoy its fizz and coldness.
- Clear Ice: Regular ice is usually cloudy which makes it weaker and melts faster than clear ice. What’s more, making this with clear ice in an old-fashioned glass just looks better and therefore will taste better!
- Diet Coke and Jack: If you’re trying to cut back on carbs, you can substitute regular Coke for some without sugar. Pro Tip: Cut back on the ratio of whiskey to soda if using diet coke. Making cocktail recipes with less sugar can make them more potent which will give you a stronger drink. This is especially true if you’re drinking on an empty stomach.
The Simplicity and Appeal
One of the main reasons the Jack and Coke is so popular is its simplicity. With just two ingredients, it’s easy to make at home or order at a bar. The combination of the smooth, slightly sweet whiskey with the bubbly, sweet cola creates a balanced and enjoyable drink.
Furthermore, ordering this two-ingredient drink is straightforward, which bartenders appreciate, especially when the bar is busy. Generally, you can get one at almost every bar, though some higher-end and fine dining locations may not stock Jack Daniels Old No. 7, though almost every restaurant has Coca-Cola or Pepsi-which makes a fine drink too! If there is no Jack No. 7, then try bourbon and coke. Beyond the Tenessee whisky and bourbon and coke, other whisky combinations work as well.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
- Diet Soda and Intoxication: Some people believe that diet soda makes you get drunk faster. While there might be a slight truth to this, it is not as significant as many think. On a completely empty stomach, you might get about 1/6th more intoxicated per drink, which is not a substantial difference considering the varying alcohol percentages in different beers and wines.
- Making it ahead of time: Since you are making these with a carbonated beverage, I wouldn’t make this ahead of time, or it will go flat.
Other possible questions
- What is Jack Daniel’s and Coke called? When Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola are mixed together, it’s called a Jack & Coke cocktail.
- What is the ratio of Jack and Coke? Use a 1:3 ratio of whiskey to coke.
- Can I use diet coke? Yes, this recipe works wonderfully with diet coca cola.
- Is there a way to dress up the flavors of this drink? There are so many ways you can change up the flavor of this drink. The easiest way to change it up is to use a different coke flavor. I like cherry coke or vanilla coke.
- I’m not a fan of strong drinks. How much whiskey should I use? If you don’t like your drinks strong, I recommend reducing the whisky to 1 oz.
- Can I make this drink stronger? Absolutely! For a stronger drink, reduce the Coke by an ounce and add an extra ounce of whiskey, or adjust the proportions to find your perfect Jack and Coke combination.
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