Whiskey and Coke

A Whiskey and Coke is a classic two-ingredient cocktail that is bubbly and refreshing, and easy to make. You can use any whiskey or bourbon to make this simple but tasty mixed drink.

Jump to:

• All about Whiskey and Coke
• Ingredient Notes
• OPTIONAL GARNISHES
• How to make a perfect Whiskey and Coke
• WHISKEY AND COKE RECIPE TIPS
• Recipe
• MORE WHISKEY COCKTAILS

All about Whiskey and Coke

A Whiskey and Coke is a popular mixed cocktail drink that is served in a highball glass. The first record of whiskey being mixed with coke was in 1907, so it’s a drink with a history and an everlasting popularity!

It is made by simply combining whiskey (or bourbon) and cola. This is a delicious combination of flavors that pair incredibly well together.

There is a larger proportion of mixer (in this case coke) to alcohol (in this case whiskey or bourbon). And this creates a deliciously balanced drink. The notes of vanilla and oak in the spicy whiskey perfectly complement the sweet, caramelly cola. 

Whiskey and Cola is a delicious pairing that can be enjoyed all year round as both ingredients are easily accessible and enjoyable in every season. It is an easy drink to make and master.

And due to its simplicity, it is also a fantastic option for serving a crowd. You can adjust the ratio of cola and whiskey to suit your personal preferences without compromising the flavor of the cocktail.

A common version of this whiskey cocktail is a Jack and Coke. And we have a post all about it if you want to learn more!

Ingredient Notes

This mixed drink consists of just two simple ingredients. To make a Whiskey and Coke you will need the following:

Whiskey (or Bourbon)

You can use any type of whiskey you like for this cocktail. The sweet cola will mask some of the nuanced flavors of it though so you don't have to use your best sipping whiskey. As long as the proof of the whiskey is around 100, it will hold up really well in this drink.

Depending on the type and brand of whiskey you use, the flavor of your drink will alter slightly. Some whiskeys are sweeter, spicier or drier than other varieties. So experiment to find which ones you like best.

Coke

Coca-Cola, or Coke, is a carbonated soft drink manufactured by The Coca-Cola Company. The name refers to two of its main ingredients: coca leaves and kola nuts (its source of caffeine). But it has become more commonly known as "coke".

Coke comes in many different variations and flavors such as black cherry, vanilla, and ginger. You can use any type you prefer best to make this recipe - including diet versions such as Diet Coke and Coke Zero.

Looking for more whiskey mixes? Check out our post all about WHAT TO MIX WITH WHISKEY!

OPTIONAL GARNISHES

Even though this is a simple cocktail, it is still fun to add a garnish to your whiskey cola to make it feel extra special. Of course, this is entirely optional, but if you do want to garnish your orange juice cocktail try out some of these easy ideas:

• Cocktail cherry – Add a maraschino cherry for some extra fruity sweetness and a pop of color.
• Orange zest twist – A delicate garnish that creates a twist from a thin strip of citrus peel. To make one, cut a strip of orange peel from your whole, fresh orange, and then roll the peel into a spiral roll. Give it a gentle squeeze before adding it to your glass.
• Clear ice – You can make clear ice and use it in this drink to make it more striking and special. The larger ice cubes are great for melting slowly.
• Fresh lemon or lime – The acidity from the citrus cuts through the sweetness of the cola and makes the drink extra refreshing.
• Fresh mint - Adding a sprig of fresh mint to your whiskey cola can give it a refreshing aroma and flavor. 

How to make a perfect Whiskey and Coke

This simple whiskey cocktail is easy to make in less than five minutes. You won't need any fancy bar equipment to create it. You can follow the step-by-step instructions below or find a full, detailed recipe card at the end of this post.

STEP ONE

Fill a high-ball serving glass with ice cubes.

STEP TWO

Add your preferred amount of whiskey or bourbon.

STEP THREE

Top with your desired amount of coke. Taste and adjust your ratio if need be.

STEP FOUR

Enjoy as is, or optionally, add a squeeze of lemon and a garnish. Serve immediately.

Vodka and Coke is another delicious cocktail pairing with cola! You can learn all about it and find a perfect recipe HERE.

WHISKEY AND COKE RECIPE TIPS

• This drink recipe is for one serving. If you’re hosting a crowd, you can multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and make the drink in a punch bowl or large pitcher.
• You can squeeze some fresh lemon or lime into a whiskey and coke to elevate the flavor and balance out the sweetness.
• This mixed drink is best enjoyed as soon as it is made as it will lose some of its carbonation over time. So it is best to serve this drink soon after making it.
• The classic Whiskey Coke ratio is 2 to 1. But if you like a boozier drink feel free to add additional vodka or reduce the amount of coca-cola in each serving.
• You can serve this drink with crushed ice or whole ice. Just keep in mind that as the ice melts it will start to slightly dilute the drink.

Recipe

MORE WHISKEY COCKTAILS

• REFRESHING BOURBON LEMONADE
• THE BEST SUMMER WHISKEY COCKTAILS
• REFRESHING BOURBON LEMONADE
• THE BEST WHISKEY SHOTS
• WHISKEY & ORANGE JUICE

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