Peanuts and Coca-Cola, often referred to as a “farmer’s Coke,” is a beloved snack from the Southern United States. This unique combination is thought to have originated in the South during the 1920s, serving as a convenient snack for blue-collar workers. Over the years, it became a popular summer treat, particularly in rural areas, and even resurfaced as an internet trend in 2018.

Inspired by this nostalgic snack, the creative minds at Ollie Irene, a gastropub in Birmingham, Alabama, have crafted a cocktail known as the Tallulah. This drink, named after co-owner Chris Newsome’s great-aunt Tallulah, who was an avid whiskey enthusiast, features Coca-Cola, peanut syrup, and a generous splash of whiskey- their recipe specifically says Jack Daniel’s. I went with another option but the result is a smooth, nutty, and pleasantly boozy homage to a long-standing Southern tradition.

The Tallulah is an easy-to-make cocktail with just three ingredients, but its signature peanut syrup—referred to as orgeat in the cocktail world—requires a bit of preparation and can get quite messy.

You should make the peanut orgeat well ahead of time, and you’ll be ready to impress guests with this very distinctive beverage. As the weather heats up, the Tallulah offers a refreshing and conversation-worthy drink with deep Southern roots.

Tallulah Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 oz whiskey
• 1 oz peanut orgeat
• Coca-Cola
• Peanuts (for garnish)

Peanut Orgeat Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted peanuts
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tsp orange flower water
• 1 oz brandy or vodka

Peanut Orgeat Instructions:

1. Pulverize the roasted peanuts in a food processor until finely ground.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
3. Allow the mixture to boil for three minutes, then add the ground peanuts.
4. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes, gradually increasing the temperature until it’s about to boil again. Remove from heat and cover.
5. Let the mixture sit for at least six hours.
6. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth, discarding the peanuts.
7. Add the orange flower water and brandy or vodka to the strained liquid.
8. Store the peanut orgeat in the refrigerator.

Mixing Instructions:

1. Pour the whiskey and peanut orgeat into a rocks glass filled with ice.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Top with Coca-Cola.
4. Garnish with peanuts.

Enjoy this Southern-inspired cocktail and savor the rich flavors and history it embodies. The Tallulah is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, providing a delightful blend of nostalgia and innovation in every sip.