Horse’s Neck

Jack London

2½ oz. rye whiskey

1 oz. ginger ale

1 oz. fresh lemon juice

1 maraschino cherry, for garnish

1 lemon slice, for garnish

Place the whiskey, ginger ale, and lemon juice in a cocktail shaker, fill it two-thirds of the way with ice, and shake until chilled.

Strain over ice into a highball glass, garnish with the maraschino cherry and lemon slice, and enjoy.

London is, of course, known for books such as Call of the Wild and White Fang. He also enjoyed this simple mix, which dates back to the later nineteenth century. It’s simply a blend of whiskey or brandy with ginger ale. Optional additions include lemon juice and/or some bitters, but they’re not essential.

Like a number of writers, London seemed to enjoy this and other drinks far too much, and alcoholism eventually ruined his immense talent.