A jock drink, also known as a highball, is a classic cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy the bold flavors of Scotch whiskey. It is a refreshing and invigorating beverage that combines the smoky notes of the whiskey with the tangy kick of lemon juice. The addition of sugar syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while the splash of soda water gives it a fizzy finish. To top it off, a maraschino cherry is added as a garnish, adding a pop of color and a hint of fruity flavor.
To make a jock drink, you will need 50 ml of Scotch whiskey. Now, the choice of whiskey can greatly impact the overall taste of the drink. There are various types of Scotch whiskey available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some may have a peaty and smoky flavor, while others may be more smooth and mellow. I personally enjoy using a single malt Scotch whiskey, as it tends to have a complex and rich flavor profile.
Next, you will need 25 ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice. I highly recommend using fresh lemon juice rather than the bottled variety, as it adds a vibrant and tangy taste to the drink. Squeeze the lemon juice into a shaker or mixing glass, ensuring that no seeds make their way into the mixture.
To balance out the flavors, a drizzle of sugar syrup is added. Sugar syrup is a simple syrup made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. It adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients. The amount of sugar syrup can be adjusted according to personal preference. I find that a small drizzle is sufficient to enhance the flavors without making the drink overly sweet.
Now it's time to add the star ingredient, the Scotch whiskey, into the shaker or mixing glass. Pour in the 50 ml of whiskey, allowing it to mingle with the lemon juice and sugar syrup. Give it a gentle stir or shake to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
To add a refreshing touch, a splash of soda water is then added. The soda water not only adds a bubbly texture to the drink but also helps to dilute the strong flavors of the whiskey and lemon juice, making it more palatable. The amount of soda water can be adjusted to personal preference, but I find that a splash is enough to give the drink a lively effervescence.
The jock drink is garnished with a maraschino cherry. The cherry not only adds a pop of color to the drink but also provides a subtle fruity note that complements the flavors of the whiskey and lemon. You can simply drop the cherry into the drink or skewer it on a cocktail pick for a more elegant presentation.
Now that your jock drink is ready, take a moment to savor the aromas wafting from the glass. The smoky and woody notes of the Scotch whiskey mingle with the zesty scent of lemon, creating an enticing aroma that prepares your palate for what's to come. Take a sip and allow the flavors to dance on your tongue. The bold and robust flavors of the whiskey are balanced by the tartness of the lemon juice and the hint of sweetness from the sugar syrup. The soda water adds a refreshing effervescence, making it a delightful drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening or as a pick-me-up after a long day.
A jock drink is a classic cocktail that combines the flavors of Scotch whiskey, lemon juice, sugar syrup, soda water, and a maraschino cherry. It is a refreshing and invigorating drink that allows the bold and smoky flavors of the whiskey to shine. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, the jock drink is a delightful choice that is sure to please your taste buds. Cheers!