CocktailRecipes

Jack Rose Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Jack Rose recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Calvados
Alcohol 15%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 12g
Prep time 3 minutes

Are you ready to dive into the world of the Jack Rose cocktail? This delightful drink is a blend of applejack, lemon or lime juice, and grenadine. Together, we’ll explore its rich history, refreshing taste, and how to create this iconic concoction at home. Let’s get shaking and make your perfect Jack Rose! ⬇️

History

The Jack Rose is one of the few cocktails with applejack at its core, a testament to its American roots. It rose to popularity during the early 20th century. This cocktail is steeped in the Prohibition era, giving it a rebellious spirit.

  • The name “Jack Rose” is thought to be linked to the infamous gambler Bald Jack Rose.
  • It was a favorite among writers, famously appearing in Ernest Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises”.
  • The cocktail’s rosy hue owes to grenadine, which was historically made from pomegranate juice.

The taste of a Jack Rose?

A sip of Jack Rose is like biting into a crisp apple laced with the tartness of citrus and the sweetness of grenadine. Its flavors dance between fruity and sour, a delightful harmony on the palate.

I personally love drinking Jack Roses because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Interesting facts about Jack Rose

  • The Jack Rose is part of the “New York Sour” family, which are cocktails with a base spirit, citrus, and a sweetener.
  • Applejack used in a Jack Rose is a type of brandy made from apple cider, known as “Jersey Lightning”.
  • Despite its association with Prohibition, the Jack Rose’s popularity endures, a testament to its timeless appeal.

Ingredients

  • Applejack: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Lime juice: 1/2 oz (15ml)
  • Grenadine: 1/4 oz (7.5ml)

A Jack Rose is traditionally served in a cocktail glass to showcase its beautiful color and balance the flavors. An alternative such as a martini glass can also be used, enhancing the elegant experience.

Recipe. How to make Jack Rose

  1. Pour applejack and 2 oz into a shaker.
  2. Add lime juice and 1/2 oz to the mixture.
  3. Include grenadine at 1/4 oz for a touch of sweetness.
  4. Shake well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Jack Roses do contain sugar from grenadine, which can add up in calories. By using natural pomegranate juice and a dash of honey or agave, you can craft a healthier version that’s just as tasty.

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Food Pairings

The right food can make a Jack Rose even more enjoyable, elevating its crisp and fruity flavors. Here are some ideal companions for this cocktail:

Spiced Nuts

The sweet and sour mix of a Jack Rose pairs wonderfully with the salty, savory crunch of spiced nuts, creating a delightful contrast.

Charcuterie Board

A varied selection of cured meats and cheeses complements the Jack Rose’s robust apple and citrus notes.

Dark Chocolate

The tartness of the cocktail cuts through the richness of dark chocolate, making for an indulgent pairing.

I love the balance of sweet and tart in a Jack Rose—it’s like a refreshing bite of an apple on a warm fall day.

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Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh lime juice to ensure the brightest flavor.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
  • Adjust the grenadine to taste, depending on your sweetness preference.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Jack Rose, let’s look at how you can put your spin on it and discover some tasty variations.

What you could change in Jack Rose

  • Lime juice: Can be swapped for lemon juice for a different citrus twist.
  • Grenadine: Try a homemade version for a deeper pomegranate flavor.
  • Applejack: Experiment with different brands to find your preferred apple nuance.

Jack Rose Variations

Jacked Up Rose

  • Ingredients: Add a splash of club soda for a fizzy take.
  • Recipe: Build in a highball glass over ice and top with soda.

Rose’s Thorn

  • Ingredients: Incorporate a dash of bitters for complexity.
  • Recipe: Stir into the mix before shaking to infuse the flavor.

Winter Rose

  • Ingredients: Use apple cider instead of lime juice for a seasonal twist.
  • Recipe: Warm the cider before mixing for a cozy cocktail.

To enjoy a Virgin Jack Rose, blend chilled apple juice with a splash of lemon and a trickle of grenadine. It’s a refreshing alternative without the kick.

Q&A

What’s the best applejack brand for a Jack Rose?

Laird’s is a traditional choice, but explore local distilleries for unique flavors.

Can I use pre-made grenadine?

Yes, though homemade grenadine can elevate the drink’s quality.

Is the Jack Rose a strong cocktail?

It has a kick but is balanced by the citrus and grenadine.

How can I make my Jack Rose less sweet?

Reduce the grenadine or choose a tart homemade version.

What’s the difference between applejack and apple brandy?

Applejack is a type of apple brandy, traditionally freeze-distilled.

Can I make a batch of Jack Roses for a party?

Absolutely, mix in a pitcher and serve in chilled glasses for your guests.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.
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