The Brooklyn Hooker drink is a bold and intriguing cocktail that combines the smooth richness of Jack Daniel’s whiskey with the sharp, briny tang of pickle juice. Its origin is somewhat mysterious, but it draws inspiration from the popular Pickleback shot, which pairs whiskey with pickle brine.
A Bit History
The Pickleback is believed to have originated in the 2000s at a bar in Brooklyn, New York, where the combination of whiskey followed by pickle juice quickly gained popularity. The pickle juice is thought to complement and soften the strong taste of whiskey, creating a surprisingly refreshing pairing. References: Chilled Magazine. “The Pickleback: A Shot That’s Taking Over Bars.” Chilled Magazine, 2017.
The Brooklyn Hooker, however, is a variation of this tradition, where Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey replaces the Irish whiskey typically used in a Pickleback. This variation adds a distinctive twist by using a well-known Tennessee whiskey, which has a smoother, richer profile. While the drink’s origins might be traced to Brooklyn’s trendy bar scene, its popularity has spread far beyond, even reaching places like Russia and the Nordic countries, where pairing spirits with pickled foods is a longstanding tradition.
Historically, drinking spirits with pickle juice can be linked to a European tradition where strong alcohols were often consumed alongside pickled foods to balance the flavors. The Brooklyn Hooker, with its bold flavors and unique twist on a classic, has solidified its place in modern cocktail culture.
How to Make the Brooklyn Hooker Drink
Brooklyn Hooker Ingredients
- Jack Daniel`s,
- Pickle Juice,
How to Make It
- Use 2 shot glasses
- Fill one with Jack Daniel and the other with dill Pickle Juice
- Take the Jack Shot, and immediately follow it with a Pickle Juice Shot.
They list the Brooklyn Hooker Drink under Vodka cocktails. The way to drink it also varies from traditional vodka shots, as you follow it immediately with pickle juice. This way of drinking Brooklyn Hooker has been very popular in Russia and the Nordic countries for centuries.
This recipe is also popular by replacing vodka with Whiskey, this recipe is sometimes also known as the Pickleback.
Typically, the Pickleback recipe uses a shot of Jameson’s Irish Whiskey, followed by a shot of McClure’s pickle brine, the Brooklyn Hooker has another name “Tennessee Hooker,” also uses Bourbon, specifically Jack Daniel’s.
2 Ingredients in Brooklyn Hooker
1. Jack Daniels
What is Jack Daniel`s? It is a Tennessee Whiskey Brand. Tennessee distilleries produce Tennessee Whiskey, a pure whiskey made in the state of Tennessee, USA. They produce whiskey that is legally and technically Bourbon, and people recognize it internationally as bourbon.
However, the Tennessee company prefers to separate Whiskey and Bourbon. A whiskey that is said to be bourbon must meet several criteria.
- Must be produced in the United States and Territories (Puerto Rico) and the District of Columbia
- Made from grain that is 51% corn
- Aged in new, charred oak containers
- Distilled at no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80% alcohol by volume)
- Aged in containers for aging at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume)
- Bottled (like other whiskeys) at 80 proof or more (40% alcohol by volume)
Tennessee whiskey meets all the requirements but still sets it apart from other whiskeys.
Recommendation:
2. Pickle Juice
The pickle juice in this recipe is there to cleanse the palate so you can cool off while you wait for the next bourbon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the history behind the Brooklyn Hooker drink?
The Brooklyn Hooker is inspired by the popular Pickleback shot, which was created in Brooklyn in the early 2000s. The Pickleback traditionally combines whiskey with pickle brine to refresh the palate. The Brooklyn Hooker puts a unique spin on the classic by using Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey instead of the usual Irish whiskey, resulting in a smoother, richer flavor. This twist has become popular worldwide, especially in countries where pickled foods play a big role in the culture.
2. Can I substitute Jack Daniel’s with another whiskey?
You can swap Jack Daniel’s with other whiskeys, but we recommend using Tennessee whiskey for the best flavor to keep it true to the Brooklyn Hooker. Some people use Bourbon or Irish whiskey, but people traditionally make the drink with Jack Daniel’s for its distinctive smoothness. Feel free to experiment with different whiskeys to create your own personalized twist on the classic recipe!
3. Is pickle juice necessary in the Brooklyn Hooker recipe?
Yes, pickle juice is a key part of the Brooklyn Hooker recipe. It works as a refreshing chaser to the whiskey, balancing the bold flavors with its tangy, salty kick. It helps cleanse the palate, making each sip even more enjoyable. While some variations of whiskey shots might not include pickle juice, it’s a signature element in the Brooklyn Hooker, adding a unique flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Jack Daniel's
- 2 oz. Pickle Juice
Instructions
- Use 2 shot glasses
- Fill one with Jack Daniel and the other with dill Pickle Juice
- Take the Jack Shot, and immediately follow it with a Pickle Juice Shot.
