Generally speaking, simplicity is a key component in creating exceptional cocktails. As a bartender, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of straightforward drinks that require minimal ingredients and preparation time. One such cocktail that embodies this principle is the highball. This classic drink has been around for over a century, and its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its timeless appeal.
At its core, a highball consists of a spirit mixed with a carbonated mixer, served over ice in a tall glass. It’s a simple yet effective combination that yields a refreshing and easy-drinking cocktail perfect for any occasion. While the basic ingredients may seem uninspired to some, the beauty of the highball lies in its versatility. With countless combinations of spirits and mixers available, the possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting unique highball recipes.
From classic pairings like whiskey and soda to more adventurous concoctions like gin and grapefruit, there’s a highball recipe out there to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or eager to experiment with new flavors, the highball is an excellent choice. If you’re seeking a delicious and hassle-free cocktail that won’t keep you tied up in the kitchen all night, look no further than the highball.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best highball recipes out there, providing you with inspiration to mix up something tasty and easy tonight.
Bourbon Whiskey Highball
Boasting a long history dating back over a century, the Bourbon Whiskey Highball has remained a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts due to its simplicity and refreshing qualities. Comprising just two essential ingredients – bourbon or whiskey, and soda water – this classic drink offers an ideal solution for those seeking a quick and effortless beverage experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan of bourbon or whiskey or looking to explore new flavors, the Bourbon Whiskey Highball is undoubtedly worth trying out.
Japanese Highball
With its understated yet sophisticated charm, the Japanese Highball has become a beloved cocktail among aficionados and newcomers alike. This deceptively simple drink, comprised of just two ingredients – Japanese whiskey and club soda – has been elevated to new heights by the Japanese, who have infused it with their unique techniques and profound respect for the art of mixology.
The harmonious balance between the whiskey’s rich flavor and the effervescence of the club soda creates a light and crisp taste experience that is both refreshing and rejuvenating. Whether enjoyed in a casual setting or as part of a formal gathering, the Japanese Highball is an exemplary choice for any occasion, its subtle nuances making it accessible to all palates without sacrificing depth or complexity.
We All Float Down Here – Root Beer Highball
Visionary bartenders have crafted the “We All Float Down Here – Root Beer Highball” as a revitalizing summer cocktail that combines root beer, cherry bitters, and whiskey in perfect harmony. The addition of creamy vanilla ice cream not only adds a rich texture but also pairs wonderfully with Ballotin Chocolate Mint whiskey, making it an ideal dessert drink. This delightful concoction can easily be adapted into a mocktail for those who prefer a non-alcoholic alternative.
As a result, it’s an absolute must-try cocktail for anyone seeking a fun and delectable drink to enjoy during the warmer months.
Peach Highball Cocktail
Vibrant and flavorful, the Peach Highball Cocktail offers a unique twist on the classic highball by incorporating fresh peaches into its recipe. When combined with whiskey and ginger ale, this cocktail boasts a fruity and sweet flavor profile that is sure to tantalize taste buds. The beauty of this drink lies in its versatility, as it can be easily made with various types of whiskey, allowing individuals to experiment with different flavor profiles.
To truly unlock the full potential of this refreshing cocktail, it is crucial to utilize ripe peaches and top-quality ginger ale, ensuring that every sip is a delight for the senses.
Hana Hana Highball
Elevating the classic highball cocktail is the Hana Hana Highball, a refreshing twist that’s gained immense popularity on Amami Island in Japan. Made with black sugar shochu, this spirit has become a staple among locals. The name ‘Hana Hana’ translates to ‘A flower for you, and a flower for this moment,’ reflecting the island’s traditional toast.
This heartfelt sentiment perfectly captures the essence of sharing moments together, making the Hana Hana Highball an ideal drink to enjoy with friends and loved ones over a delightful evening.
Tom Collins
You can’t go wrong with the Tom Collins, a timeless highball cocktail made with gin, club soda, lemon juice, and simple syrup. This revitalizing drink is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re looking to unwind after work or celebrate a special event.
The Gin Rickey
Rounding out the world of classic cocktails is the Gin Rickey, a timeless highball that embodies the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. Composed of just three ingredients – gin, soda water, and lime juice – this refreshing drink is an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings or casual get-togethers with friends. What sets The Gin Rickey apart from other cocktails is its effortless charm, making it accessible to anyone who gives it a try.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a newcomer to the world of craft cocktails, this drink’s understated elegance and refreshing quality are sure to make it a staple in your repertoire.
Vodka Tonic
Not only is the Vodka Tonic a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail, but it’s also perfect for those who prefer a less boozy taste. As a part of the highball cocktail family, it pairs liquor with a larger portion of a non-alcoholic mixer, creating a unique balance of flavors. The drink is made with good quality vodka and tonic water, which is carbonated and lightly sweetened, giving it a crisp and refreshing taste.
The addition of lemon and lime juice gives it a zingy flavor that is hard to resist, making it perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or as a pre-dinner cocktail. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail to try or just want something to quench your thirst, the Vodka Tonic is definitely worth a shot and is sure to become one of your favorite drinks.
Smoked Fruit Garden
Hailing from the realm of creative mixology, the Smoked Fruit Garden stands out as an innovative highball cocktail that marries the luscious flavors of fresh peaches and watermelon with dark rum and Pisco. What sets this cocktail apart is the smoking process used to infuse the fruit with a delicate smoky undertone. The addition of mint and smoked sea salt on the rim adds a touch of sophistication, elevating the drink’s overall character.
The presentation, too, deserves mention, as watermelon rolls serve as an elegant garnish, rounding out the Smoked Fruit Garden’s unique charm.
Alabama Slammer
Savoring the essence of summer, the Alabama Slammer is a revitalizing highball cocktail that exudes the perfect blend of sweetness and sophistication. This tantalizing mix of sloe gin, amaretto, orange juice, and Southern Comfort whiskey has been meticulously crafted to deliver a bold yet harmonious flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
The origins of this beloved cocktail date back to the 1970s at the University of Alabama, where it was initially conceived as a refreshing drink for students. Over time, the recipe has undergone subtle revisions to elevate its character and make it even more appealing to those seeking an extraordinary drinking experience.
With its luscious and fruity flavor profile, the Alabama Slammer is an absolute must-try for anyone in search of a revitalizing highball cocktail that’s sure to quench their thirst.
Calamansi Highball
Fresh from the Philippines comes a cocktail that embodies the spirit of tropical bliss – the Calamansi Highball. This refreshing concoction is not only perfect for sweltering summer days but also makes an ideal drink for brunch gatherings and casual get-togethers. With its unique blend of Nankai Shochu, soda water, and calamansi juice, the Calamansi Highball offers a delectable twist on the classic highball cocktail.
The small citrus fruit known as calamansi, which bears some resemblance to limes, contributes a tangy and puckering flavor profile that perfectly complements the smooth and bubbly texture provided by the shochu and soda water. Whether you’re a fan of zesty drinks or simply looking for something new to try, the Calamansi Highball is sure to hit the spot. It pairs particularly well with seafood and grilled chicken dishes, making it an excellent choice for a variety of culinary occasions.
Vodka Collins
Here at first glance, the Vodka Collins appears to be a classic highball cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. It boasts a refreshing and bubbly quality that makes it incredibly appealing, especially on a hot summer day when something light and revitalizing is just what you need. This delightful drink is made with vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, which combine to create an enchanting balance of sweet and tart flavors.
The Vodka Collins’s versatility allows it to be enjoyed not only in warm weather but also as a pre-dinner drink, giving you the opportunity to experiment with different garnishes and soda waters to give it a unique twist. Overall, its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, making it a must-try cocktail that has truly stood the test of time.
Transfusion Drink
Working its magic on golf clubs and country clubs alike, the Transfusion Drink is a truly one-of-a-kind highball cocktail that’s sure to captivate any cocktail enthusiast. Blending vodka with Concord grape juice, lime, and ginger ale creates a sweet and musky flavor profile that adds an exciting twist to this classic drink. Whether you’re seeking a revitalizing summer refreshment or a light and effervescent winter cocktail, the Transfusion Drink is sure to hit the spot.
Its perfect balance of flavors makes it an ideal choice for any occasion, and its unique charm is sure to leave you wanting more.
Gin Rickey
Building on its rich history, the Gin Rickey is a timeless highball cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of gin enthusiasts. Composed of just three simple ingredients, it offers a light and refreshing drinking experience with minimal calories. The harmonious balance of lime juice’s tanginess and club soda’s effervescence creates an ideal summer refresher.
However, it’s crucial to use a high-quality gin to truly appreciate the complexities of this classic cocktail, which has endured as a staple in mixology for generations and is definitely worth experimenting with.
Peach Jack Daniels High Ball
Just as the summer heat intensifies, a refreshing cocktail can make all the difference in beating the sweltering temperatures. The Peach Jack Daniels High Ball is one such cocktail that not only quench your thirst but also satiates your taste buds with its unique blend of flavors. This Southern classic is made by combining fresh peaches and Jack Daniels whiskey, creating an ideal concoction for hot afternoons spent lounging on the porch.
When served extremely cold, this drink is so delightful that you might find yourself indulging in it all day long. For anyone who appreciates a good whiskey cocktail, The Peach Jack Daniels High Ball is a must-try and will surely elevate your summer drinking experience.
Nantucket Seabreeze Cocktail
Beneath its crisp and refreshing exterior, the Nantucket Seabreeze Cocktail conceals a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. Crafted with cranberry juice, grapefruit juice, vodka, and club soda, this highball cocktail perfectly balances the opposing forces of sugary and sour tastes. The inclusion of club soda infuses it with a light and airy quality that makes it an ideal choice for sipping while soaking up the sun or watching a sunset on the beach.
A lime quarter garnish adds a touch of whimsy to the drink, as it teeters atop the rim of the glass like a sail, evoking the carefree essence of a lazy summer day on Nantucket Island. If you’re searching for a cocktail that embodies the spirit of a tranquil summer afternoon in this charming coastal town, the Nantucket Seabreeze Cocktail is an absolute must-try.
Fuzzy Navel
Honoring its name, the Fuzzy Navel cocktail boasts a unique blend of peach schnapps and orange juice. Its characteristics are unmistakable: it’s a sweet and fruity concoction that’s straightforward to prepare. The moniker itself provides insight into the components – ‘fuzzy’ referring to the peach schnapps and ‘navel’ signifying the orange juice. This revitalizing drink is an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter, fruitier flavor in their beverages.
When served in a highball glass with ice and garnished with a slice of orange, it reaches its full potential.
Texas Ranch Water
Just a few ingredients are needed to create the Texas Ranch Water, a revitalizing highball cocktail that’s perfect for sizzling summer days. The simplicity of its recipe makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a low-sugar drink. Composed of just three key components – tequila, lime juice, and mineral water – this cocktail is easy to prepare and requires minimal fuss.
Its origins date back to the end of a long day at a Texas Ranch, where weary workers would unwind with a glass of this refreshing concoction. As its popularity grew among ranchers and cocktail aficionados alike, the Texas Ranch Water has become a staple in many establishments, cherished for its laid-back charm and straightforward preparation. So why not give it a try and experience the essence of Texas?
