Jack and Coke

Jack and Coke in a Can, and what’s the price?

Navigating the shelves for a pre-mixed Jack and Coke can be a breeze if you know what you want. The standout, of course, is the official “Jack Daniel’s & Cola” from the Coca-Cola Company. A can of this blend guarantees the authentic taste of whiskey meshed perfectly with the iconic Coca-Cola fizz. It’s the real deal in terms of flavor, and the price sits comfortably at around $4 for a 12 oz can, depending on where you shop. Another notable mention is Cutwater Spirits’ “Whiskey & Cola.” While it doesn’t boast the Jack Daniel’s label, the flavor holds its own. If authenticity is your jam, the official “Jack Daniel’s & Cola” is the go-to. It delivers that tried-and-true taste every time, and the price is right on point for the quality.

Garnish

Garnishing elevates the drink from standard fare to a cocktail with flair. Begin with a high-quality, crystal-clear ice cube; it doesn’t just cool the drink but adds a visual element. A fresh slice of lime, squeezed and dropped into the glass, introduces a zesty kick, complementing the sweet cola and mellow whiskey notes. If you’re feeling a tad fancy, a twist of lemon peel can be a game changer. Express the oils over the drink, rub the rim of the glass with the peel, then drop it in. Not only does it give a pleasant aroma, but it also offers a hint of citrusy brightness with each sip.

Variations

Want to explore other options? Check out some of our favorites:

• Jack and Cherry Coke: Infused with the taste of cherries, this combination brings a fruity twist to the classic, offering a hint of tartness that complements the whiskey’s warmth.
• Jack Honey and Lemonade: Using Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, this mixture provides a smoother, sweeter profile, while lemonade adds a refreshing zest.
• Jack and Ginger: Pairing Jack Daniel’s with ginger ale creates a spicier and more aromatic experience, making every sip a zingy delight.
• Jack and Sprite: Introducing Sprite to the equation results in a lighter and crisper taste, thanks to the lemon-lime flavor of the soda.
• Jack and Root Beer: This combo infuses the drink with vanilla and sassafras notes, creating a nostalgic, deep-rooted flavor sensation.
• Jack Fire and Dr. Pepper: A cinnamon warmth takes center stage with Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire. Partnered with Dr. Pepper, a symphony of 23 flavors dances on the palate.

History and Origin

The Jack and Coke, sometimes colloquially known as the “Lemmy” in homage to the late Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister, has an origin that’s more of a gradual merging of popular ingredients rather than a pinpointed historical moment.

The story begins with the rise of Jack Daniel’s itself. Jasper Newton “Jack” Daniel founded the Jack Daniel’s distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee, in the 1870s. By the early 20th century, Jack Daniel’s had become one of the most recognized whiskey brands in the U.S.

Concurrently, Coca-Cola emerged from its Atlanta roots in 1886. John S. Pemberton, a pharmacist, created the beverage, and Asa Candler later acquired the brand, giving it a marketing push that saw it become an iconic American soft drink.

As both products grew in popularity, it was inevitable that they would eventually mix, especially during the era of Prohibition. During these dry years, from 1920 to 1933, people often sought ways to make the bootleg alcohol they could find more palatable. Mixing strong spirits with sodas like Coca-Cola became a common practice.

However, the formal association of Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola, specifically as a recognized pairing, took off after World War II. American soldiers stationed overseas had limited access to mixers for their spirits, and Coca-Cola was often the mixer of choice due to its widespread availability.

Upon returning home, many soldiers returned their acquired taste for Jack and Coke. The pairing cemented its place in American drinking culture during the 1950s and 1960s, as both brands engaged in aggressive marketing campaigns.