Man, it’s been a LONG time since we’ve had a nice Driving Range Drinks post on DRH! So long that I had to search for an old post to remember the format a bit and I saw it was from the holidays in 2019! Lord knows there have been plenty of inspiring drinks over the pandemic so you’d think I’d have found SOMETHING to post. Anyway, that last post involved Jack Daniels and so does this one. Let me tell you about my newly found love of the Jack and Ginger.
Somehow, Jack and Ginger has NEVER crossed my path until recently! I’ve discovered and fell in love with various combinations of bourbon and ginger many years ago. Rum and ginger even got onto my radar, but Jack Daniels? Nope.
The Discovery
I recently played a round at a favorite local private club on an absolutely scorching hot day. We’re talking “I had no idea we were capable of this Florida heat and humidity in the Chicagoland area” hot. Our foursome was made up of a good friend of the site, another good buddy, and a fourth that I had not previously met prior to this round of golf. Our group was quite enjoyable, per usual, but the heat eventually took its toll on the quality of golf. Shortly after making the turn, my new friend had a delightful looking cocktail in his hand from the “halfway” house. I asked what it was and he told me “Jack Daniels and Ginger Ale”.
Given the quality of golf and the raging heat, I decided to join him. Of course, I also refilled my liter water bottle for those of you worrying about dehydration. After minutes of me being unreasonably dumbfounded I’d never head of such a simple drink, I finally took my first sip. It was magical. Just a refreshing elixir perfectly crafted for a round of golf or summer evening barbecue. Not only had I met a fun new golf pal, but was guided to one of the most satisfying adult beverages I’ve ever encountered by the very same individual.
Making a Jack and Ginger
Making the drink is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is mix Jack Daniels and ginger ale to taste with a healthy serving of ice. Word to the wise, don’t use ginger beer instead of ginger ale. I tried it, for scientific reasons of course, and it just wasn’t as good of a combination.
If you want to get a little more fancy with it, here’s the extra complicated recipe that I’d suggest:
- 1 to 1.5 parts Jack Daniels
- 2 parts premium Ginger Ale (I’m a Canada Dry guy)
- Squeeze an orange or lime slice (depending on mood) into drink and garnish edge of glass/cup
Then it’s time time to just sit back and enjoy! If you already knew this one, then at least you can appreciate this. If you didn’t, I hope I’ve given you a nice a refreshing option to add to your repertoire!
