Of all the highball cocktails, or alcoholic beverages which are a mix of a spirit and a non-alcoholic mixer, what is perhaps one of the most popular pairing is a good old whisky and cola, served with tons of ice. The drink enjoyed immense popularity in the American south as a delicious concoction that wards off the heat while introducing a pleasant buzz elevated by the sugar content in the aerated cola. Now, whisky and cola has become a staple mix in bars and at house parties because of its sheer simplicity and deliciousness.

The first known mention of a pairing of whisky and cola is to be located in the 20th century when the concept of cocktails, or of mixing spirits with other non-alcoholic syrups and juices was gaining popularity in bars and at social gatherings. During this time, it was an employee of the chemistry and soils department of America who first encountered the drink in the south, where the bartender referred to the mix as a ‘Coca-Cola highball.’ 

This was undoubtedly a time when the brand itself was becoming immensely famous as an iconic bottled and aerated sugary cola. The popularity of Coca-Cola led to a widespread use of the drink as a mixer with whisky and before long, the consistent and distinct taste of cola coupled with the smoky and bitter notes of the spirit became a signature drink.

An enduring reason for its popularity lies in the sweetness of cola which helps to tame the strong flavour of whisky, especially for those who have only recently begun to take an interest in spirits and their flavour profiles. 

Serving whisky and cola is exceedingly simple and at your next house party, you can arrange to have a couple of bottles of premium Johnnie Walker Red Label served in a tall glass with generous amounts of ice and a proportionate helping of cola. Red Label with its slightly spicy and warm notes paired with cola is an utterly indulgent combination that you can garnish and serve with a citrusy lime wedge.

Adjust the proportion of whisky according to your preferences, sometimes, a small peg might be too diluted for a tall pint glass of cola. Perform a bit of trial and error on the drink to get the quantity right and take into consideration how much ice you add to the drink because when it melts, it is going to throw the proportion of alcohol to cola in a disarray.

Read on below for a recipe to prepare Johnnie and cola at the next event you host during the festive season: