Fernet And Coke

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Herbal and bitter with a sweet and effervescent edge, the Fernet and Coke is a refreshing and delicious combination.

Tonight’s mixture is one of the most interesting-tasting and mouth-watering tipples you can make for yourself. Let’s say you have a case of some bubbly and refreshing Coca-Colas in the icebox, just waiting to be cracked open and quaffed, followed by a belly-rumbling belch. So satisfying, right? But maybe you want to add a little something extra to your soft drink, making it a tad harder.

The Fernet and Coke offers you a simple, two-ingredient cocktail. And one you might not have considered before. Sure, a Jack ‘N’ Coke is always reliable, but you’re in the mood for something a little off the well-worn path. And today’s recipe will be a guaranteed winner, and a drink that might just become your new favorite.

In fact, it happened to an entire country. In the 1980s, the combo of the American soda mixed with the Italian liqueur somehow caught on with the young adults in Argentina, and became so popular that to this day the South American country is one of the largest consumers of the bittersweet amaro.

Also called a Fernandito, a Fernando and a Fernet con Coca, the Fernet and Coke is considered one of the national drinks of Argentina.

What is the best alcohol to use in a Fernet and Coke?

Why, a Fernet-Branca, of course. The liqueur has a complex and full-bodied flavor. Upon your first sip, your nostrils will be filled with the rich aroma of spices and herbs, among them eucalyptus, chamomile and cinnamon. The flavor is intense on its own, with notes of mint and gentian root. The earthy, robust cordial is often referred to as a “bartender’s handshake” when served as a shot.

What glassware and garnish are used?

Fill a highball or collins glass with ice, stir your mixture in and garnish with a fresh lemon wheel on the rim, and pop a few straws in too, if you wish.

What is the best cola to use?

A simple can or bottle of Coca-Cola is the obvious choice, and an excellent one, too. Fever-Tree makes a Distillers Cola, crafted to complement the spirits it is mixed with. There’s also the Coke that’s available from Mexico, sold in glass bottles and made the old-fashioned way, with cane sugar.

Similar drinks to the Fernet and Coke

While we all love the process of grabbing our ingredients and accoutrements to whip up a fancy and involved cocktail for ourselves and our friends, sometimes we just want something a little simpler. If you’re in the mood for an easy tipple mixed with a sweet and bubbly Coke, check out some of these options below.

• Vodka and Coke – Simple, smooth and strong.
• Whiskey and Coke – Nothing beats this classic at the end of a long day.
• Cubata – Dark rum, lime juice, and Coke make for a complex and rich taste.
• Cuba Libre – Have a light and refreshing sip with this white rum, lime juice and dark cola concoction.