Curious about the pickleback? This simple shot pairs a measure of whiskey with a chaser of chilled pickle brine for a bold, salty contrast. Below you’ll find the history, ingredients, variations, and clear instructions to enjoy a classic Pickleback Shot with Jameson Irish Whiskey or your whiskey of choice.
Pickleback Shot Recipe
A pickleback is simply a shot of whiskey immediately followed by a shot of pickle juice. The whiskey delivers heat and depth while the brine cleanses the palate, leaving a surprising and refreshing finish.
The drink’s modern origin traces back to Brooklyn’s Bushwick Country Club in March 2006. The bar kept pickles for a nearby producer and a bartender named Reggie Cunningham began serving Old Crow Bourbon with a shot of spicy pickle juice as a chaser. Patrons liked the combination and the Pickleback spread from there. Over time, Jameson Irish Whiskey became a popular spirit choice to pair with the pickle chaser, and the drink now appears on bar menus worldwide.
Ingredients Needed
Simple ingredients make this shot fast and fun to prepare.
- Jameson Irish Whiskey (or your preferred whiskey)
- Chilled pickle brine/juice (dill or spicy, depending on taste)
Garnish (optional): a mini pickle or pickle spear.
Tip: While some enthusiasts prefer a specific brand of pickle brine, any good-quality pickle juice will work—straight from a jar or bottled.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need two 1 oz shot glasses—one for the whiskey and one for the pickle brine.
How to Make a Pickleback Shot
Quick steps to enjoy this two-glass ritual:
- Pour 1 oz of Jameson (or your chosen whiskey) into a shot glass.
- Pour 1 oz of chilled pickle brine into a separate shot glass.
- Drink the whiskey, then immediately chase it with the pickle juice.
Preparation and Storage
If you plan to scale the concept into a larger cocktail (for example, a pickle juice martini), mix proportions to taste and store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor, serve within a couple of days. Pickle juice can also be frozen in molds to create creative frozen variations.
Recipe Variations
- Substitutions: The original used bourbon, but any quality whiskey—Irish, rye, bourbon, or blended—works well.
- Spicy: Use spicy pickle brine for added heat.
- Alcohol-free: Substitute a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative for a virgin version.
- Pickle shot glass: For a playful touch, hollow a large dill pickle to use as a tiny shot vessel.
- Dietary notes: Pickle juice and most distilled whiskeys are typically plant-based. Distilled spirits are generally considered gluten-free, but check product labels if you have strict dietary needs.
Tips for the Best Pickleback Shot
- Chill the pickle juice for a cleaner, more refreshing chaser.
- Experiment with different pickle types—dill, garlic, bread-and-butter, or spicy—to find your preferred flavor profile.
- Some people follow the pickleback with a beer chaser for a layered drinking ritual.
- Keep the pour sizes equal for the classic balance: roughly 1 oz whiskey and 1 oz pickle juice.
When to Serve
The Pickleback is a lively shot for casual gatherings, bar nights, or holiday celebrations. Its association with Jameson makes it a playful choice for St. Patrick’s Day, but its appeal is broad—any time you want a bold pairing of spirit and brine.
Recipe Card
Pickleback Shot
Prep Time: 2 minutes | Servings: 1 | Calories: ~79 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 oz Jameson Irish Whiskey (or preferred whiskey)
- 1 oz chilled pickle juice
Instructions
- Pour 1 oz whiskey into a shot glass.
- Pour 1 oz chilled pickle brine into a separate shot glass.
- Drink the whiskey, then immediately chase with the pickle juice.
Equipment
- Two 1 oz shot glasses
Nutrition (approx.)
Per serving: Calories ~79; Sodium varies depending on pickle brine; carbohydrates minimal.
Whether you’re a pickle lover or just curious about unusual drink pairings, the Pickleback is an easy, memorable shot to try. Adjust the brine, the whiskey, or the temperature to suit your taste and enjoy this quirky classic.