The Jack Rose is a classic cocktail that was popular at the turn of the 20th century. No one really knows who invented it, or why it is named how it is, but there are many disputed theories. The recipe I’m giving for this cocktail is the traditional version, with a 4:2:1 ratio of alcohol:acid:syrup. While the drink fell out of favor by the 21st century, it has slowly been gaining popularity thanks to the craft cocktail movement sweeping the world.
A few days ago I posted the Hemingway Daiquiri, one of the favorite drinks of the great author. The Jack Rose is a favorite drink of Jake Barnes, Hemingway’s narrator character in The Sun Also Rises. This drink is also a pink color, however it can lean peach or red depending on the lighting, as you can see by the three pictures I have.
How To Make A Jack Rose
Ingredients
- 60 ml Applejack. This is an apple brandy popular in America. If you cannot find Applejack you can use Calvados, the European version. As I live in Europe I went with Calvados. I personally don’t think the difference between the two liquors is that distinct, especially as there are so many different varieties. However Applejack tends to lean sweeter whereas a European Apple Brandy is more dry.
- 30 ml Lemon or Lime Juice. You can use whatever one you like. I made one with fresh squeezed lemon juice and store bought lime juice. I think the lemon juice pairs better, but it’s entirely up to you.
- 15 ml Grenadine. This, to me, is the most important part. Make sure you use real grenadine and not the corn syrup neon red version sold in most grocery stores. If you can’t find a good brand at your local store, you should just make your own, it makes a world of difference.
Instructions
In a shaker add the apple brandy, lemon (or lime) juice, and grenadine. Add some ice and give a quick shake just to chill and combine all ingredients. Strain the Jack Rose into a cocktail glass and garnish with an apple fan.
If you like the glassware, it is the Riedel Nick and Nora. This is my absolute favorite cocktail glass. I use it in drinks like the Treaty of Paris, The Pelagic, and the Paper Plane.
You can buy it here.
Jack Rose
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 60 ml Applejack or any Apple Brandy like Calvados
- 30 ml Lemon Juice or lime juice. Freshly Squeezed
- 15 ml Grenadine Authentic (no neon red fake grenadine)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with a couple ice cubes. Give a quick shake to chill and combine, then strain into a cocktail glass. Leave ungarnished or make an apple fan for show.
