How to Make the Jack Rose Cocktail

Jack Rose is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. Made with apple brandy, lemon juice, and grenadine, it’s a simple yet delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion.

The origins of the Jack Rose cocktail are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been popularized in the early 1900s. David Embury in his  The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, claimed that it could have been named after notorious gambler and bootlegger named Bald Jack Rose, who was involved in the Black Sox scandal of 1919. He goes on to say that others claim it was invented by New Jersey bartender Frank J. May, who may or may not have had the nickname, Jack Rose.

It might even be that it was named after the pink color of the drink, which resembles the color of a rose. Regardless of its origins, the Jack Rose has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic cocktail to this day.

The drink gained popularity during Prohibition, when bootleggers often used applejack as a base for their homemade spirits. The Jack Rose cocktail was a popular way to make the applejack more palatable by mixing it with lemon juice and grenadine syrup.

The Jack Rose cocktail was also a favorite of writer Ernest Hemingway, who featured it in his novel “The Sun Also Rises.” The drink continued to be a popular cocktail throughout the 20th century and has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years with the renewed interest in classic cocktails..

Today, the Jack Rose recipe is typically made with apple brandy or Laird’s applejack, grenadine, and lemon or lime juice, although there are many variations on the recipe. Some bartenders add bitters or other fruit juices, while others use different types of brandy or substitute other sweeteners for the grenadine.

What goes into a Jack Rose

The drink is made with apple brandy, lemon juice, and good grenadine syrup. Here is a breakdown of the ingredients.

Apple Brandy or Applejack

The main ingredient of the Jack Rose cocktail is apple brandy or if you are in the United States, Applejack, a type of brandy made from apples.

Grenadine

This is a syrup made from pomegranate juice. I would use homemade grenadine which I have a recipe for. It’s really easy!

Fresh Lemon Juice

Lemon juice works to add a bit to the sweetness of the grenadine. You can use fresh lime juice as well

Variations and Twists

There are many variations and twists to the Jack Rose cocktail. Some people prefer to use different types of brandy, such as Calvados or pear brandy, instead of apple brandy. Others like to add a splash of orange juice or bitters to the drink to give it a more complex flavor. Some bartenders even use pomegranate molasses instead of grenadine syrup to give the drink a more robust flavor.

What tools you need to make Jack Rose.

You’ll need a cocktail shaker for this one! Grab a jigger, a barspoon, a strainer, and a cocktail glass for this Jack Rose cocktail recipe.

• Step 1: Start by adding the apple brandy, lemon juice, and grenadine syrup into a shaker with ice.
• Step 2: Shake until well-chilled, then fine-strain into a coupe glass.
• Step 3: Garnish with a few slices of apple or a lemon twist and serve in a coupe or martini glass.

Bottom’s up

Some bartenders like to shake the drink vigorously to create a frothy texture, while others prefer to stir the ingredients together for a smoother finish. Experiment with different mixing techniques to find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste.

Why Lush Life loves it

Despite its popularity, the Jack Rose has gone in and out of fashion over the years. However, it has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years as more and more people have discovered its delicious taste and simple preparation. Whether you are a whiskey drinker looking to try something new or simply looking for a refreshing cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer day, the Jack Rose is definitely worth trying.

 Plus more brandy recipes here

Here is the recipe!

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