In the Sack is a forgotten classic that combines Cream Sherry with fruity acidity. The drink tastes like a sunny afternoon in a glass – sweet, but not sticky, with a slight dryness that lingers on the palate. Perfect for anyone who wants more than just Gin or Rum in their shaker. Here, Sherry finally takes center stage, not just as an ingredient.
And this is what you need for the In the Sack
4 cl Cream Sherry
6 cl apricot nectar (minimum 50 % fruit content, no syrup)
6 cl freshly squeezed orange juice
2 cl lemon juice
1 orange slice (for garnish)
What matters here
The trick lies in the apricot nectar: use one with a high fruit content, otherwise the drink becomes too sweet and loses its balance. If you can’t find one, replace 1 cl nectar with 0.5 cl simple syrup – but only as a last resort. Cream Sherry is not a dessert wine, but an oxidatively aged Sherry with nutty depth. If left open too long, it loses its freshness. In the shaker, a short, hard shake is enough – too long and the Sherry flattens out, too short and the acidity dominates.
Variations
- In the Sack with Rosemary — Lightly press 1 fresh rosemary sprig and let it steep in the shaker with the ingredients for 10 seconds before shaking. Remove the sprig before straining. Adds a resinous-herbal note that complements the Sherry.
- Dry Sack — Replace the Cream Sherry with 4 cl Fino Sherry and reduce the apricot nectar to 4 cl. Add 1 cl simple syrup. Drier, with a salty almond note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different Sherry instead of Cream Sherry?
Yes, but the flavor changes significantly. Amontillado or Oloroso make the drink drier and nuttier, Pedro Ximénez too sweet. Cream Sherry is the best choice because it maintains the balance between sweetness and dryness.
Why does my drink taste flat?
Either you didn’t use enough ice in the shaker (it needs to get properly cold) or you shook it for too long. Cream Sherry is sensitive to excessive movement – 12–15 seconds is enough. Or your orange juice wasn’t freshly squeezed.
Can I prepare the drink in advance?
Yes, but only mix the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator. Shake just before serving, otherwise the Sherry loses its aroma. Always garnish fresh.
