in , ,

Meet the Maker: Jack Series

The holiday season is such a fun time to up your home bartending game! And it just so turns out a local maker, Jack Lingle of Jack Series, is making it even easier and more handcrafted for you right here in Fargo. Also, peep a super fun cocktail recipe using his syrups to enjoy right away—or just grab some lavender to toss in your coffee to level your mornings up.

Tell us a bit about yourself/yourselves:

I am from Fargo and have lived here all my life! Growing up in Fargo, I participated in theater at Davies High School. I was also heavily involved in the culinary department and always cooked in my free time. I am a student at NDSU in the Hospitality Department and Vice President of the Hospitality Student Association.

What type of products do you make under Jack Series?

I make simple syrups for cocktails, mocktails, coffees, teas, etc. These have wide use for sweetening and flavoring drinks!

Tell us how you got started with syrups:

I started home bartending for my family and wanted to “upgrade my cocktail game.” Looking into some fancy cocktails to make, I started making a cranberry simple syrup and made cranberry Moscow mules! After my family loved the flavor, they suggested I sell them. I started small and sold to friends and family, before selling wholesale to restaurants and retail locations.

Where does your inspiration come from for new flavors?

Pretty much anything anyone suggests, I try! I love experimenting and growing the flavor lists!

What is your personal favorite so far? I love sweet drinks and my favorite syrup I sell is Toasted Marshmallow, it makes some great dessert drinks and is great in coffee! Could you recommend a holiday cocktail we all should try? I always love to recommend anything cranberry for holiday drinks! A cranberry mule or a cranberry mezcal margarita are great options! The mule is refreshing and tart while the cranberry mezcal margarita is smokey, tart and fresh.

What is something people might find surprising about working with simple syrups?

Although people think that simple syrup is only for cocktails, they have many applications! Try them in any way to sweeten something up and add some flavor!

What have you enjoyed the most about doing this handcrafted business?

I love designing all products and packaging for the syrups. From the amber glass bottles that help preserve flavor to the label design, I love all the little things that make the product its best self!

What is the most challenging thing?

With my business consisting of just me, getting all the products that I need to be made can be time-consuming and challenging. When I think about where I am in such a short amount of time though, the time and labor I put into the business have been worth every second.

What is a word that best describes you?

I would say that the best word to describe me would be driven. I always am working on something for the business or for a project.

What advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago?

Make as many connections as you can, your friends are great resources with different skill sets. Everyone can help and learn from one another.

Where can people find your work?

As of now, I can be found in Unglued, Happy Harry’s, as well as in Rosewild downtown! Hopefully, more soon, so keep a lookout for stores around you!

Jack’s Fave Toasted Marshmallow Martini Recipe:

Shake together:
3/4 oz Bailey’s Irish Liqueur
3/4 oz Kahlua Coffee Liqueur
3/4 oz Disaronno Amaretto Liqueur
1 oz Marshmallow Simple Syrup
2 oz Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve in a Chocolate Rimmed Martini Glass. Garnish with a Toasted Marshmallow Jack Series.

Jackseries.us
Facebook: /jacks.series

Written by Ashley Morken

Ashley Morken is the owner of Unglued, a modern handmade gift shop featuring over 300 local and regional makers in downtown Fargo. She also a founding member of the Creative Mornings Fargo committee.

The Advice That Helped Them Get There: Local Artist & Business Owner Hannah Stelter

Your Ultimate Wedding Genies