Whiskey and Coke

A globally popular and straightforward mixed drink, the Whiskey and Coke is a testament to simple perfection. The combination of a good whiskey with the familiar sweetness and fizz of Coca-Cola creates a balanced and refreshing beverage. Its beauty lies in its simplicity, making the quality of the two main ingredients paramount. It's an approachable drink, easy to make and enjoy in almost any setting, from a casual home gathering to a bustling bar.
Whiskey and Coke

Preparation

Preparation time: 2 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Whiskey and Coke is classified as a highball, a type of cocktail composed of a base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. It is one of the most fundamental and popular examples of this category. Due to its simplicity and widespread consumption, it's a staple in bars worldwide.

Serving

Served cold over ice in a tall Highball or Collins glass, this drink is refreshing with a moderate alcohol content that depends on the ratio of whiskey to cola.
Serving size
240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
~10-15% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

While people have mixed spirits with carbonated drinks for over a century, the Whiskey and Coke rose to prominence in the early 20th century in the American South. Its popularity was cemented by American soldiers during and after WWII who were introduced to Coca-Cola globally and mixed it with local spirits. This simple pairing has endured for decades due to its accessibility, ease of preparation, and satisfying taste.
Origin
United States, believed to have been first mixed at a pharmacy in 1907. It gained widespread popularity in the following decades.

Whiskey and Coke

The drink is most commonly known as Whiskey and Coke, but its name often changes based on the specific type of whiskey used, such as "Bourbon and Coke" or "Rye and Coke." The brand-specific name "Jack and Coke" is also extremely popular. In some regions, it may be generically referred to as a "Whiskey Cola."
Original name
Whiskey and Coke
Alternative names
  • Bourbon and Coke
  • Rye and Coke
  • Whiskey Cola

Characteristics overview

This drink offers a familiar flavor profile of sweet caramel cola balanced by the vanilla, oak, and spice notes of the whiskey. It has a crisp, bubbly texture and a refreshing quality that makes it enjoyable year-round.
Flavor
Sweet, Caramel, Vanilla, Oak, Spice, Cola
Aroma
Whiskey, Sweet Cola, Citrus (if garnished)
Taste balance
Sweet, Slightly bitter
Aftertaste
Lingering sweetness, Warm whiskey notes
Fizziness
Bubbly, Carbonated
Color appearance
Dark brown, Mahogany, Clear
Texture
Thin, Crisp, Effervescent
Seasonality
Refreshing, All-season

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is dominated by the sweetness and carbonation of the cola, with the whiskey providing a moderate alcoholic warmth and complexity. A squeeze of lime can add a touch of sourness to balance the sweetness.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This simple highball requires just two primary ingredients: your choice of whiskey and a quality cola. A lime wedge is a highly recommended but optional addition for a touch of citrus brightness.
  • Whiskey60 ml / 2 oz
    Bourbon is a classic choice, but Tennessee whiskey, rye, or even a blended Scotch can be used.
  • Cola120-180 ml / 4-6 oz
    Coca-Cola is standard. The amount can be adjusted to taste. Pour to top.
  • Lime Wedge1 wedge(optional)
    A squeeze of fresh lime cuts through the sweetness and adds a bright, citrus note.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

No special equipment is needed beyond a glass and perhaps a bar spoon to gently mix the ingredients. A jigger is useful for measuring the whiskey accurately.
  • Bar Spoon for gentle stirring

Instructions

Preparation is straightforward: simply build the drink in a highball glass by pouring whiskey over ice, topping with cola, and giving it a gentle stir. Garnish with a lime wedge if desired.
1. Fill a highball glass to the top with cubed ice.
2. Pour the whiskey over the ice.
3. Top up the glass with chilled cola.
4. Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing carbonation.
5. If using, squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in, or place it on the rim as a garnish.

Garnishing

The standard garnish is a simple lime wedge, which can be squeezed into the drink before being dropped in or placed on the rim. No garnish is also perfectly acceptable.
  • Lime wedge perched on the rim of the glass

Dietary Information

This drink is generally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and gluten (as distillation removes gluten proteins). However, it is not caffeine-free due to the cola.
✓ Contains alcohol
✕ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

The nutritional content is primarily driven by the sugar in the cola, making it moderately high in calories and carbohydrates. Using a diet or zero-sugar cola can significantly reduce these values.
Calories
Averagely 180-220 kcal / 753-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 20-30 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 20-30 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This is a highly versatile drink suitable for almost any informal occasion. It's a go-to choice for casual parties, happy hours, and relaxed evenings at home or at a dive bar.
  • Casual Gathering
  • Happy Hour
  • Party
  • Night Out
  • Everyday Drink

Pairing suggestions

The sweet and robust flavor profile of a Whiskey and Coke pairs well with classic, casual American fare. It's an excellent companion for salty, savory, and grilled foods like burgers, barbecue, and pizza. The carbonation helps cut through rich and fatty flavors, cleansing the palate.
  • Burgers and Fries
  • Barbecue Ribs
  • Salty Snacks (Pretzels, Chips)
  • Pizza

Whiskey and Coke: The Iconic Highball

The Whiskey and Coke is the quintessential easy-to-make cocktail, celebrated for its simplicity and refreshing taste. Combining the warmth and complexity of whiskey with the sweet, familiar fizz of cola, it delivers a consistently satisfying experience. While often seen as a basic drink, its enduring global popularity is a testament to its perfect balance. It is a versatile and approachable choice for any casual occasion, requiring no special tools or techniques to enjoy.

Variations

Jack and Coke

Specifically uses Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey as the base spirit.

Similar Cocktails

Cuba Libre

Swaps whiskey for rum, but maintains the cola and essential lime wedge components.

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