Sip Spotlight: Smoked Cherry Coke

A well-balanced Rum & Coke is a beautiful thing. Achieving that balance with flavored cola can be tricky, though.

But what if you’re really craving a spiked Cherry Coke that isn't overly sweet?

We solved this issue by swapping out rum for vodka, adding syrup from a jar of dark cocktail cherries, and tossing in Smoked Black Cherry Mixicles (found in our Distinctive Collection). The result is a sophisticated and boozy cherry-infused Coke that is sure to please the palate.

For a non-alcoholic version of this drink that still has depth of flavor, simply leave out the vodka and add a little more cola — ideally Mexican Coke, if you can find it. Like Mixicles, it’s made with real cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup. Bottoms up!

SMOKED CHERRY COKE

Ingredients:

• 1 Smoked Black Cherry Mixicles cube
• 2 oz. vodka
• 1/2 oz. syrup from jar of dark cocktail cherries
• 1 dark cocktail cherry
• 6 oz. Coca-Cola (Mexican Coke preferred, if available)

How to Mix: Build the cocktail in a pint or highball glass, starting with the Smoked Black Cherry Mixicles cube, vodka, and cherry syrup. Fill glass with ice and top with cola. Garnish with a dark cocktail cherry.

For a zero-proof version of this drink, omit the vodka and add 2 more ounces of cola.

Jen Morales is the co-founder of Cincinnati-based Mixicles, an all-natural, frozen, non-alcoholic botanical mixer that can be popped into any liquor, wine, champagne, etc for an instant cocktail. They can even used as a natural foundation for distinctive zero-proof drinks and smoothies. Learn more at www.mixicles.com.