The mix of a selected Tennessee whiskey and a fruit-based beverage creates a combined drink appreciated for its mix of flavors. The whiskey gives notes of caramel and oak, whereas the cider contributes sweetness and a crisp apple style. This pairing is often consumed throughout cooler months as a consequence of its warming qualities and affiliation with autumnal flavors.
This specific drink advantages from the inherent traits of its parts. The whiskey supplies a definite alcoholic profile, including complexity and depth, whereas the cider contributes a refreshing sweetness and fragrant qualities. Traditionally, whiskey and apple-based drinks have been paired, usually for celebratory or seasonal events, leading to a drink with established roots and continued reputation.
The next sections will look at numerous facets of this beverage pairing, together with variations in preparation, potential taste enhancements, and concerns for accountable consumption.
1. Whiskey Choice
The collection of whiskey considerably impacts the ultimate character of the beverage that includes apple cider. The whiskey base contributes the first alcoholic spine, dictates the complexity of the flavour profile, and influences the general ingesting expertise. Selecting a selected whiskey straight alters the steadiness between the whiskey’s inherent traits and the cider’s sweetness and tartness. For example, a higher-proof whiskey supplies a extra pronounced alcoholic heat, probably overpowering the cider’s nuances. Conversely, a milder whiskey permits the apple cider’s taste to change into extra dominant.
Contemplate a situation the place a high-rye bourbon is used as a substitute of a Tennessee whiskey. The ensuing drink would exhibit a spicier, extra assertive taste, contrasting considerably with the smoother, sweeter profile achieved with a lower-rye content material whiskey. Equally, using a peated Scotch would introduce smoky notes, basically altering the drink’s composition. These examples illustrate the direct cause-and-effect relationship between whiskey choice and the ensuing taste profile of the drink.
Subsequently, the selection of whiskey just isn’t merely a matter of choice; it’s a important determination that determines the drink’s general steadiness and character. Cautious consideration of the whiskey’s proof, taste profile (together with notes of caramel, spice, smoke, or fruit), and end is important for attaining a harmonious mix with the apple cider. Understanding the interaction between these components permits for a extra deliberate and managed ingesting expertise.
2. Cider Selection
The collection of cider profoundly influences the last word style and complexity of the mix with Jack Daniel’s. The varied vary of obtainable ciders, from dry to candy and glowing to nonetheless, presents a spectrum of flavors that work together uniquely with the whiskey’s traits. This selection permits customization primarily based on particular person preferences and desired taste profiles.
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Sweetness Stage
The diploma of sweetness in a cider straight counterbalances the whiskey’s inherent dryness and oak notes. A sweeter cider can create a extra approachable and fewer intense drink, interesting to those that choose a milder taste profile. Conversely, a dry cider accentuates the whiskey’s complexity, leading to a bolder and extra subtle beverage. For instance, a dessert apple cider contributes a major quantity of sugar, making a distinctly candy cocktail, whereas a standard dry cider gives a tartness that balances the whiskey’s richer notes.
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Carbonation
The presence or absence of carbonation impacts the drink’s texture and perceived lightness. Glowing ciders introduce effervescence, enhancing the drink’s refreshing qualities and making a energetic mouthfeel. Nonetheless ciders, missing carbonation, provide a smoother and extra subdued expertise, permitting the flavors to linger longer. Utilizing a bottle-conditioned cider may contribute further complexity from the yeast sediment.
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Apple Varietals
The particular forms of apples used within the cider manufacturing contribute distinct taste traits. Some apple varietals impart a tart, crisp taste, whereas others provide a sweeter, extra mellow style. Single-varietal ciders showcase the distinctive qualities of a specific apple kind, whereas blends mix a number of varieties to attain a balanced and sophisticated taste profile. For example, a cider made primarily from Granny Smith apples will possess a pointy acidity, whereas a cider created from Honeycrisp apples will exhibit a sweeter, extra fragrant character.
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Processing Strategies
Cider making methods will affect the ultimate taste. Ciders could bear totally different fermentation processes, filtering, and growing older, which is able to additional improve their style. For instance, ice cider, made by freezing apple juice earlier than fermentation to pay attention the sugars, creates a wealthy and flavorful choice with a excessive sweetness stage and extra complicated notes that provides to the Jack Daniel’s.
The cautious consideration of cider selection is essential for attaining a balanced and harmonious pairing. The choice permits for tailor-made sensory experiences, accommodating various tastes and preferences. A collection of high quality substances improves the flavour of the cocktail. This underscores the significance of understanding the interaction between whiskey and cider traits to craft a drink that’s each pleasing and well-suited to the person’s palate.
3. Ratio Stability
Reaching the proper steadiness between whiskey and cider is paramount in making a palatable and pleasing ingesting expertise. The ratio considerably influences the drink’s energy, sweetness, tartness, and general taste profile. An imbalance can lead to a drink that’s both too alcoholic and overpowering or too candy and missing complexity.
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Dominant Spirit Management
The proportion of whiskey determines the drink’s alcoholic energy and the prominence of the whiskey’s attribute flavors, reminiscent of oak, caramel, and spice. A better whiskey ratio emphasizes these notes, leading to a stronger and extra complicated beverage. Conversely, a decrease ratio tempers the alcoholic depth, permitting the cider’s flavors to change into extra pronounced. For instance, a 3:1 cider-to-whiskey ratio creates a milder, fruit-forward drink, whereas a 1:1 ratio produces a bolder, extra spirit-driven expertise.
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Sweetness Modulation
The ratio straight impacts the perceived sweetness of the drink. Cider inherently contributes sweetness, which balances the dryness of the whiskey. Adjusting the ratio permits for fine-tuning the sweetness stage to swimsuit particular person preferences. A bigger proportion of cider leads to a sweeter drink, whereas a smaller proportion permits the whiskey’s drier notes to prevail. Using a dry cider with the next whiskey ratio can create a extra balanced and complex profile by mitigating extreme sweetness.
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Acidity and Tartness Equilibrium
Cider usually possesses a sure stage of acidity or tartness, which might complement the whiskey’s richness and supply a refreshing counterpoint. The ratio influences the prominence of this acidity. A better cider ratio accentuates the tartness, making a extra vibrant and refreshing drink. Conversely, a decrease ratio permits the whiskey’s smoother traits to dominate, leading to a mellower and extra rounded expertise. Collection of cider with the next acid stage is usually a good addition to Jack Daniel’s.
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Taste Complexity Harmonization
The relative proportions affect how the part flavors mix and work together. When one component overpowers the opposite, it mutes the fragile steadiness. Correct balancing of cider and whiskey results in a extra built-in ingesting profile that’s flavorful. Ratios permit for the flavors to enrich one another, enriching the general ingesting profile for a greater taste.
Finally, figuring out the best whiskey-to-cider ratio entails cautious consideration of particular person preferences and the particular traits of the chosen whiskey and cider. Experimentation and taste-testing are important for locating the optimum steadiness that maximizes enjoyment and creates a harmonious mix of flavors.
4. Serving Temperature
The serving temperature of a beverage containing Tennessee whiskey and apple cider exerts a substantial affect on its perceived taste profile and general attraction. Temperature impacts the volatility of fragrant compounds, thus altering the depth of each the whiskey’s and cider’s attribute scents. A hotter temperature tends to reinforce the discharge of those risky compounds, probably amplifying each fascinating and undesirable aromas. Conversely, a colder temperature suppresses volatility, muting the fragrant expression however probably bettering the drink’s smoothness. For instance, serving the combination too heat could intensify the alcohol’s harshness, whereas serving it too chilly could diminish the cider’s delicate apple notes. The perfect temperature seeks to strike a steadiness, highlighting the fascinating traits of each parts.
Sensible software of temperature management will be noticed in numerous serving strategies. Serving over ice is a standard strategy, successfully chilling the beverage. Nevertheless, the melting ice can dilute the drink over time, regularly altering the ratio of whiskey to cider and diminishing the depth of the flavors. Alternatively, pre-chilling each the whiskey and cider earlier than mixing maintains the drink’s focus whereas offering a cooler temperature. Particular glassware, reminiscent of a relaxing copper mug, may assist in sustaining the specified temperature. Moreover, the ambient temperature of the atmosphere during which the beverage is consumed performs a job. A cooler atmosphere will assist preserve the drink’s temperature for an extended period.
In abstract, the serving temperature just isn’t a negligible issue however fairly an integral component within the presentation and delight of a beverage mixing Tennessee whiskey and apple cider. Understanding the impact of temperature on fragrant compounds and using acceptable chilling strategies are essential for optimizing the drink’s taste profile. Overlooking this side can detract from the meant sensory expertise, highlighting the significance of temperature management within the preparation and serving course of.
5. Garnish Choices
Garnish choices function a important component in elevating the presentation and sensory expertise of a Tennessee whiskey and apple cider beverage. Garnishes aren’t merely ornamental; they contribute to the aroma, visible attraction, and even the flavour profile, thereby enhancing the general enjoyment of the drink.
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Cinnamon Stick
A cinnamon stick introduces a heat, spicy aroma that enhances each the whiskey’s oak notes and the cider’s fruity sweetness. Submerged within the beverage, it regularly infuses a refined cinnamon taste, including depth and complexity. Its visible attraction contributes to the drink’s autumnal affiliation, making it a very appropriate garnish for cooler months.
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Apple Slice
An apple slice, particularly a spread that aligns with the cider’s taste profile, reinforces the apple notes and provides a refreshing component. A skinny slice permits for straightforward consumption and enhances the visible presentation. The selection of apple selection can additional refine the drink’s taste; for example, a Granny Smith apple slice introduces a tart counterpoint to the sweetness.
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Orange Peel
A twist of orange peel supplies a citrusy aroma that brightens the general profile and balances the drink’s sweetness. Expressing the oils from the peel over the drink releases fragrant compounds, including a layer of complexity. The colourful coloration of the orange peel additionally contributes to the drink’s visible attraction, offering a distinction to the amber hues of the whiskey and cider.
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Star Anise
A star anise introduces a refined licorice aroma and taste, including a novel and complex dimension to the beverage. Its distinctive form additionally enhances the drink’s visible attraction, making it a memorable garnish. Whereas its taste is potent, a single star anise is enough to impart a refined complexity with out overpowering the opposite flavors.
The collection of acceptable garnishes for a Tennessee whiskey and apple cider beverage is a deliberate course of that considers each aesthetic and taste enhancements. Cautious consideration of garnish choices permits for a personalised ingesting expertise that elevates the beverage past its primary parts. Experimentation with totally different garnishes opens alternatives to refine the flavour profile and visible presentation, making certain optimum enjoyment.
6. Glassware Alternative
The collection of acceptable glassware considerably influences the sensory expertise related to a Jack Daniel’s and apple cider beverage. Glassware impacts aroma focus, temperature upkeep, and visible attraction, collectively affecting notion of the drink. A narrow-mouthed glass, for instance, focuses fragrant compounds, intensifying the perceived scent profile. Conversely, a wide-mouthed glass permits for broader aroma dispersion, probably diminishing the influence of the drink’s refined notes. Subsequently, the chosen glass serves as a major consider shaping the buyer’s preliminary impression and subsequent enjoyment.
Contemplate the sensible results of various glassware selections. A highball glass, generally used for combined drinks, supplies ample house for ice, sustaining the drink’s temperature for an prolonged interval. Nevertheless, its extensive mouth could result in a quicker dissipation of aromas. Alternatively, a snifter glass, sometimes used for spirits, concentrates aromas as a consequence of its tapered form, however its smaller quantity could necessitate shelling out with ice, affecting temperature management. The sensible implication is that one should weigh the significance of temperature upkeep versus aroma focus when choosing glassware. Moreover, the readability and design of the glass affect visible attraction, an vital side of the general ingesting expertise. A crystal-clear glass showcases the drink’s coloration and readability, enhancing its aesthetic qualities.
In abstract, glassware choice just isn’t merely an aesthetic consideration however a practical determination impacting sensory notion. The form, measurement, and materials of the glass affect aroma focus, temperature upkeep, and visible presentation, all of which contribute to the general enjoyment of the Jack Daniel’s and apple cider beverage. Cautious consideration of those components permits a extra deliberate and optimized ingesting expertise, underscoring the sensible significance of glassware alternative.
7. Event Suitability
The suitability of a Jack Daniel’s and apple cider beverage is straight linked to the particular event. Elements influencing this appropriateness embody the time of yr, formality of the occasion, and prevailing cultural norms. The inherent taste profile, combining the heat of whiskey with the sweetness of apple, lends itself extra readily to sure settings than others. Understanding the nuances of those associations is essential for accountable and pleasing consumption.
For instance, an informal autumn gathering or a Thanksgiving celebration naturally aligns with this drink’s taste profile. The autumnal spices usually related to apple cider, reminiscent of cinnamon and nutmeg, evoke seasonal heat, making the beverage a becoming complement to such events. Conversely, a proper company occasion or a summer time pool get together could not symbolize appropriate environments. The comparatively sturdy alcoholic content material of the beverage is perhaps inappropriate for skilled settings, and its heat taste profile would possibly conflict with the sunshine and refreshing preferences of summer time gatherings. Serving it at a winter vacation get together will often be setting as a result of the climate matches the flavors.
In conclusion, the suitable consumption of Jack Daniel’s and apple cider requires discerning consideration of the event. Whereas the beverage possesses intrinsic qualities that make it interesting, its suitability is contingent upon contextual components. Adhering to those concerns ensures accountable and harmonious integration of the drink into numerous social settings. Consideration on components above can additional improve ones expertise of having fun with this cocktail.
8. Taste Profile
The flavour profile of any combined drink is paramount to its general attraction, and the mix of Tennessee whiskey and apple cider isn’t any exception. Understanding the interaction of flavors from every part is essential to appreciating and customizing this beverage.
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Whiskey’s Contribution
The Tennessee whiskey contributes notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, derived from the charcoal mellowing course of and barrel growing older. These components present a foundational heat and complexity, performing as a counterpoint to the cider’s inherent sweetness. For example, the absence of those oaky notes would go away the drink tasting merely of candy apple with an alcoholic chunk.
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Cider’s Affect
Apple cider introduces sweetness, tartness, and a definite apple fruitiness to the flavour profile. Relying on the number of apples used within the cider, the sweetness can vary from refined to pronounced, whereas the tartness supplies a refreshing counterpoint to the whiskey’s richness. A cider missing enough tartness would lead to a very candy and probably cloying drink.
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Balancing Act
Reaching an optimum taste profile requires a cautious steadiness between the whiskey’s heat and the cider’s sweetness and tartness. A better proportion of whiskey will intensify the oak and caramel notes, whereas a higher quantity of cider will emphasize the apple fruitiness. An unbalanced ratio can lead to a drink that’s both too boozy or too candy, diminishing the general enjoyment.
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Fragrant Influence
The aroma profoundly influences style notion. The interaction between the whiskey’s refined spice notes and the cider’s crisp apple perfume creates a sensory expertise that enhances the drink’s attraction. Fragrant garnishes, reminiscent of cinnamon sticks or orange peels, can additional increase this dimension, including layers of complexity and visible attraction.
These elementswhiskey notes, cider affect, steadiness, and aromaintertwine to type the distinctive taste profile of this beverage. Customizing the ratio and collection of substances permits for a tailor-made sensory expertise, solidifying the significance of understanding this interaction in attaining optimum drink satisfaction.
9. Regional Variations
Variations in regional preferences and out there substances considerably affect the preparation and consumption of combined drinks, together with these that includes Tennessee whiskey and apple cider. These regional variations usually mirror native tastes, agricultural merchandise, and cultural traditions, resulting in various interpretations of a seemingly easy beverage.
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Cider Sweetness Ranges
In areas the place sweeter apple varietals are prevalent, the ensuing cider tends to be sweeter, requiring a distinct whiskey-to-cider ratio to steadiness the flavour profile. Conversely, areas identified for tart apple varietals produce drier ciders, necessitating changes to keep up equilibrium. For instance, New England’s cider custom usually favors drier, extra acidic ciders, which pair properly with a barely sweeter Tennessee whiskey mix, whereas Midwestern preferences would possibly lean in direction of sweeter ciders, requiring the next proportion of whiskey to forestall a very saccharine style.
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Whiskey Preferences
Regional whiskey preferences can dictate the particular kind of Tennessee whiskey employed. In areas the place bourbon is favored, people would possibly substitute a high-rye bourbon for the extra conventional Tennessee whiskey, altering the drink’s spice profile. Equally, areas with a robust Scotch whisky presence would possibly experiment with a blended Scotch to create a smoky variation. These substitutions, pushed by native tastes, reshape the drink’s character whereas retaining its elementary parts.
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Spice and Garnish Diversifications
Regional culinary traditions steadily affect the addition of spices and garnishes. In areas with sturdy ties to Mexican delicacies, a pinch of chili powder or a cinnamon stick infused with a touch of ancho chili is perhaps added for a spicy twist. Equally, areas with a historical past of utilizing native herbs may incorporate sprigs of rosemary or thyme as fragrant garnishes. These regional spice variations personalize the beverage to mirror native flavors and preferences.
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Serving Model Influences
Regional customs lengthen to serving types. In colder climates, the drink is perhaps served heat or mulled, incorporating spices like cloves and star anise to reinforce its warming qualities. Alternatively, in hotter areas, the beverage is often served over ice or blended right into a frozen concoction for a extra refreshing expertise. Such regional serving fashion variations mirror the prevailing local weather and cultural norms surrounding beverage consumption.
These regional variations illustrate the adaptability of the Tennessee whiskey and apple cider mixture. By responding to native tastes and out there substances, the fundamental recipe transforms into a various array of regional specialties, every reflecting the distinctive character of its origin.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the mix of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and apple cider, offering factual data to reinforce understanding and delight.
Query 1: Does the kind of apple cider considerably alter the flavour profile of a Jack Daniel’s and apple cider beverage?
The kind of apple cider certainly has a notable affect. Dry ciders improve the whiskey’s complexity, whereas sweeter ciders present a milder, extra approachable taste. Glowing ciders add effervescence, making a extra refreshing expertise. Subsequently, cider choice ought to align with the specified taste depth and profile.
Query 2: What’s the really helpful ratio of Jack Daniel’s to apple cider for optimum style?
The optimum ratio is subjective and is determined by particular person preferences. Nevertheless, a standard place to begin is a 1:2 ratio of whiskey to cider, permitting for changes primarily based on desired energy and sweetness. Experimentation is inspired to find out probably the most palatable steadiness.
Query 3: How does serving temperature have an effect on the style of Jack Daniel’s and apple cider?
Serving temperature influences aroma launch and general smoothness. Chilling the beverage mutes fragrant depth however enhances smoothness. Serving it too heat can intensify alcoholic harshness. The perfect temperature balances these components, sometimes achieved by serving over ice or pre-chilling each parts.
Query 4: What are acceptable garnishes for Jack Daniel’s and apple cider?
Appropriate garnishes embody cinnamon sticks, apple slices, and orange peels. Cinnamon sticks add a heat, spicy aroma, whereas apple slices reinforce the apple notes. Orange peels present a citrusy brightness. Garnish choice ought to complement the flavour profile of the chosen cider and whiskey.
Query 5: Is Jack Daniel’s and apple cider a seasonally restricted beverage?
Whereas usually related to autumn, the drink just isn’t strictly restricted to a selected season. Its heat taste profile makes it notably interesting throughout cooler months, however it may be loved year-round, relying on particular person preferences and variations, reminiscent of serving it over ice in hotter climates.
Query 6: Are there any potential well being concerns when consuming Jack Daniel’s and apple cider?
Accountable consumption is paramount. Extreme alcohol consumption poses well being dangers. The sugar content material in apple cider must also be thought of, notably for people with dietary restrictions. Moderation and consciousness are important for secure enjoyment.
Key takeaways embody the significance of cider choice, ratio balancing, temperature management, and garnish appropriateness in optimizing the enjoyment of this beverage mixture.
The following part will discover potential variations and superior methods for enhancing the Jack Daniel’s and apple cider expertise.
Enhancing the Expertise
This part outlines actionable methods for optimizing the consumption of this specific Tennessee whiskey and apple cider mixture, emphasizing methods to refine the flavour profile and general enjoyment.
Tip 1: Prioritize High quality Elements. The collection of each the whiskey and cider straight influences the ultimate product. Go for premium Tennessee whiskey, and take into account artisanal ciders that make the most of particular apple varieties for enhanced taste complexity. Utilizing inferior substances compromises the beverage’s potential.
Tip 2: Macerate Fragrant Infusions. Introduce a small amount of fruit or spice macerated within the whiskey previous to mixing. This pre-infusion intensifies the fragrant notes, making a extra nuanced taste profile. Experiment with apple slices, cinnamon sticks, or star anise.
Tip 3: Make use of Temperature Strategically. Pre-chill each the whiskey and cider earlier than mixing to attenuate ice dilution. This maintains the integrity of the flavors and prevents the drink from changing into watery. Think about using chilled glassware for optimum temperature retention.
Tip 4: Incorporate Bitters Judiciously. A small quantity of fragrant bitters, reminiscent of Angostura or orange bitters, can add depth and complexity to the drink. Bitters steadiness the sweetness of the cider and intensify the whiskey’s spice notes. Train restraint; extreme use can overwhelm the opposite flavors.
Tip 5: Consider Carbonation Ranges. Experiment with each nonetheless and glowing ciders to find out the popular stage of effervescence. Glowing cider imparts a lighter, extra refreshing high quality, whereas nonetheless cider permits the flavors to linger longer. The selection ought to align with the specified mouthfeel and general impression.
Tip 6: Optimize Garnish Presentation. Garnishes mustn’t solely improve the aroma but in addition complement the visible attraction. Contemplate elegant displays, reminiscent of fanned apple slices, exactly zested orange peels, or artfully organized cinnamon sticks. The visible component contributes to the general sensory expertise.
Making use of these methods permits for a extra refined and customized strategy to having fun with the mix of Tennessee whiskey and apple cider. By specializing in ingredient high quality, aroma enhancement, temperature management, and cautious presentation, one can elevate this straightforward drink to a extra subtle sensory expertise.
The following part will current concluding remarks and abstract of key factors mentioned all through the doc.
Conclusion
This exploration has elucidated numerous aspects of the beverage created by combining Jack Daniel’s with apple cider. Key facets, together with whiskey choice, cider selection, ratio steadiness, serving temperature, garnish choices, and glassware selections, considerably affect the general sensory expertise. Regional variations and event suitability additional contribute to the nuanced understanding of this beverage mixture. The evaluation underscores the significance of knowledgeable decision-making in attaining optimum enjoyment.
The offered data encourages a considerate strategy to the preparation and consumption of this drink. Understanding the interaction of flavors and the influence of varied components permits for a extra refined and satisfying expertise. Additional exploration and experimentation are inspired to completely admire the potential of Jack Daniel’s with apple cider and its place inside the broader panorama of combined alcoholic drinks. The information offered serves as a basis for continued investigation and accountable enjoyment.
