Highball Cocktail Recipe

The Highball cocktail has a long and storied history, dating back to the late 19th century. It is said to have originated in the United Kingdom, where it was popularized by British railway workers who would mix their whiskey with soda water to create a refreshing and easy-to-drink beverage. Over time, the Highball evolved and became a staple in bars around the world, with countless variations and adaptations.

Key Moments in Highball History

• Late 1800s: Originated in the United Kingdom
• Early 1900s: Gained popularity in the United States
• Mid-20th century: Became a staple in bars worldwide

The Highball cocktail is a refreshing, effervescent, and versatile drink. Its taste can be described as crisp, clean, and slightly sweet, with a subtle hint of bitterness from the soda water. The whiskey adds warmth and depth, while the soda water lightens the drink and adds a pleasant fizz.

The Highball is often considered a 'session' cocktail, meaning it can be enjoyed over a longer period without becoming too intoxicating.

• The name 'Highball' is thought to have originated from the practice of railway workers using a highball glass to mix their drinks.
• The Highball is sometimes referred to as a 'Whiskey and Soda', although there are many variations that use different spirits and mixers.

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour 2oz of whiskey over the ice.
3. Top with 4oz of soda water.
4. Gently stir to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

• Use quality whiskey for a smoother taste.
• Chill the soda water before use to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Don't over-stir. It can dilute the drink and make it flat.

Appetizers

• Cheese plates: The Highball's light, refreshing character complements the creaminess of cheeses like Brie or Gouda.
• Sushi: The effervescence and mild flavor profile can cut through the umami and richness of sushi.
• Smoked salmon: The smoky notes in the whiskey combined with the fizzy soda make a nice match with the fattiness of smoked salmon.

Main Courses

• Grilled meats: The sparkle of soda and the warmth of the whiskey work well with grilled steaks or pork chops.
• Fried Chicken: The crispiness of the chicken is mirrored by the bubbles of the soda water.

Snacks

• Nuts: Salted nuts and the smooth whiskey mixture are a bar snack staple.
• Chips: Plain or lightly flavored potato chips can complement the fizz and spirit without overpowering the taste.

• Whiskey: Can be substituted with other spirits like rum or gin.
• Soda Water: Can be replaced with tonic water or ginger ale for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon or Lime Wedge: Orange or grapefruit wedge can be used for a citrus twist.

The Ginger Highball

• Ingredients: 2oz Whiskey, 4oz Ginger Ale, Ice, Lemon or Lime Wedge
• Recipe: Follow the original Highball recipe, but replace soda water with ginger ale for a spicier, sweeter kick. It's like your Highball just grew a gingery beard.
• Flavor: This twist adds a warming spice that complements the whiskey's natural heat, while the ginger's sweetness rounds out the drink.

The Citrus Burst Highball

• Ingredients: 2oz Whiskey, 3.5oz Soda Water, 0.5oz Fresh Lemon Juice, Ice, Lemon Wheel
• Recipe: Squeeze in half an ounce of fresh lemon juice before adding the soda water. It amps up the tartness and freshness, bringing a citrusy summer breeze into the mix.
• Flavor: More vibrant and tangy than the classic - a sun-kissed twist for those who like a sharper zing.

The Herbal Highball

• Ingredients: 2oz Whiskey, 4oz Tonic Water, Ice, Lemon or Lime Wedge, Fresh Mint
• Recipe: Swap soda water for tonic water and add a sprig of fresh mint. The herbs whisper herbal secrets to the whiskey.
• Flavor: Bittersweet with herbaceous notes, adding sophistication and a refreshing twist.