The Hanks Highball Cocktail Recipe

The Hanks Highball is a cocktail inspired by the legendary actor Tom Hanks. It's a modern twist on the classic highball, with a blend of flavors that are as versatile and appealing as Hanks' filmography. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced drink with a touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness.

• The cocktail was first created in a popular Hollywood bar, where the bartender was a big fan of Tom Hanks.
• It quickly gained popularity among the regulars, and soon became a staple on the menu.
• The Hanks Highball is now enjoyed by fans of the actor all over the world.

The Hanks Highball has a refreshing, well-balanced taste. The sweetness of the honey syrup and the tartness of the lemon juice blend perfectly with the robust flavor of the bourbon. The ginger beer adds a spicy kick, while the bitters provide a subtle hint of complexity.

• The Hanks Highball is named after Tom Hanks, one of the most beloved actors in Hollywood.
• Despite its name, the cocktail doesn't have any direct connection to the actor. It was simply named in his honor by a fan.
• The cocktail is a twist on the classic highball, a type of cocktail that typically consists of a spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer.

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice to the glass.
3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
4. Add a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a slice of ginger.
6. Serve and enjoy.

• Use a high-quality bourbon for the best flavor.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice will make a big difference in the taste of the cocktail.
• Don't skip the bitters - they add a depth of flavor that really makes the cocktail stand out.

Food Pairings

• Cheese platters: The sweet and spicy notes of the cocktail enhance the creaminess of soft cheeses like Brie or a sharp Cheddar.
• Grilled meats: The robust flavor of bourbon and the tangy ginger complement barbecued pork or chicken perfectly.
• Spicy Asian dishes: The ginger beer and lemon in the cocktail can help soothe the heat from dishes like Thai curries or Szechuan stir-fries.

  Drink Pairings

• Iced tea: Non-alcoholic and refreshing, it can be a palate cleanser between sips of the cocktail.
• Craft beers: A hoppy IPA can stand up to the strong flavors of The Hanks Highball, providing a different but complementary taste experience.

• Bourbon can be substituted with another type of whiskey.
• Honey syrup can be replaced with simple syrup or agave nectar.
• Ginger beer can be substituted with ginger ale, though this will result in a less spicy cocktail.

The Smoky Hanks

• Ingredients: Replace bourbon with smoky mezcal for an earthy twist. Recipe: Follow the original recipe, swapping bourbon for mezcal. The result is a cocktail with a smoky undertone that dances with the ginger and honey, evoking images of late-night campfires and mystical tales.

  The Herbal Hanks

• Ingredients: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme. Recipe: Lightly bruise the herb and place it in the glass before adding ice. Proceed with the original recipe. The herb's aroma will infuse the drink with a botanical note, giving it a sophisticated garden-fresh twist.

  The Berry Hanks

• Ingredients: Muddle a few blackberries in the bottom of the glass. Recipe: Add blackberries to the glass and muddle. Add ice and continue with the original recipe. This twist will offer a fruity berry burst to the highball, with a rich color and a taste that's as alluring as a sweet summer romance.