What is rock and rye?

Rock and rye is an American mixed drink that combines rye whiskey with ice and rock candy (typically in the form of a syrup or infused sugar cube) and, usually, a dash of bitters. It is a cocktail that is traditionally served over crushed ice.

History

Rock and rye is commonly understood to have originated in New York City during the mid-1800s, and is often referenced in 19th-century bar guides. The drink was also enjoyed by prominent figures of the American Old West including Kit Carson, George Armstrong Custer, and Robert E. Lee. Some sources claim that rock and rye was an early iteration of the Manhattan cocktail, which was popular in the same period.

Variations

Similar cocktails using different base spirits include:

- Brandy Alexander, made with cognac, white crème de cacao, and cream.

- Horsefeather, made with scotch whisky and ginger ale, served over ice.

- Pousse-café, a multilayered cocktail made with equal parts of crème de menthe verte, Irish cream, and Grand Marnier.

- Scotch and soda, made with scotch whisky and soda water, served over ice.

- Whiskey sour, made with whiskey, sour mix, and an optional garnish.

- White Lady, made with gin and Cointreau, served with a twist of lemon.