Classic: Jack Rose

Name: Classic: Jack Rose
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ounces applejack or apple brandy; 2 ounces applejack or apple brandy; ¾ ounce fresh lemon or lime juice; ¾ ounce fresh lemon or lime juice; ½ ounce grenadine; 1 lemon twist, for garnish

Preparation info

Makes
1
Drink

Difficulty
Easy

Appears in

Spirits of '76

By Kim Laidlaw

Published 2026

About

Though its exact origins are unclear, this classic cocktail likely ties back to New Jersey, thanks to its base spirit, Laird’s Applejack—made at the nation’s oldest licensed distillery. Popular through Prohibition and famously favored by Steinbeck and Hemingway, the Jack Rose remains a timeless tribute to American apple brandy.

Ingredients

2 ounces applejack or apple brandy
¾ ounce fresh lemon or lime juice

Americas
United States
New Jersey
Drinks
Vegan
Gluten-free

Method

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the applejack, lemon juice, and grenadine. Cover and shake vigorously until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with the lemon twist and serve.