The Blue Angel Highball is a crisp, layered cocktail with a bold look and a refined mix of flavors. Japanese gin gives it a smooth, botanical base, while blue curaçao brings a pop of color and light citrus. Fino sherry adds a dry, nutty note that keeps things grounded, and a mix of orange and maraschino liqueurs rounds it out with a touch of fruit and depth. Served tall and chilled, it’s clean, slightly sweet, and not too heavy. Whether you’re winding down or looking for something a little different, the Blue Angel Highball keeps things fresh and interesting.

Tasting Notes

The Blue Angel Highball is an elegant and complex cocktail that blends floral, citrus, and nutty flavors with a refreshing effervescence. The Japanese gin provides a delicate botanical base, while fino sherry adds a dry, slightly savory note. Blue Curaçao and orange liqueur introduce subtle citrus sweetness, perfectly complemented by the rich, almond-like depth of maraschino liqueur.

The Cherry Blossom Tonic adds a floral and slightly herbal finish, making each sip light, refreshing, and sophisticated. Garnished with a maraschino cherry, this cocktail is as visually striking as it is flavorful.

Equipment and Glassware

To craft this Blue Angel Highball cocktail, you’ll need a highball glass to allow room for the tonic’s effervescence. A bar spoon is essential for gently mixing the ingredients without disrupting the carbonation. A jigger ensures precise measurements, and using quality ice cubes will keep the drink cold while minimizing dilution. A garnishing pick may also be useful for presenting the maraschino cherry attractively.

Ingredients

1.5 oz Japanese gin
1/2 oz fino sherry
1/4 oz blue Curaçao
1/4 oz orange liqueur
1/4 oz maraschino liqueur
Cherry Blossom Tonic chilled, to top up
Garnish: maraschino cherry

Instructions

Fill a highball glass with ice.
Add the Japanese gin, fino sherry, blue Curaçao, orange liqueur, and maraschino liqueur to the glass.
Stir gently to combine.
Top up with chilled Cherry Blossom Tonic.
Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Serve and enjoy your Blue Angel Highball.

Pro Tips

Use a high-quality Japanese gin with floral and citrus-forward botanicals for the best balance.
Stir gently instead of shaking to maintain the drink’s clarity and carbonation.
Chill the Cherry Blossom Tonic beforehand to keep the drink cool without excessive dilution.
Experiment with different maraschino liqueurs, such as Luxardo, for varying levels of almond and cherry depth.
Serve in a tall, narrow highball glass to enhance the visual layering and carbonation retention.

When to Serve

The Blue Angel Highball is perfect for sophisticated gatherings, cocktail parties, and warm-weather soirées. Its delicate balance of floral, citrus, and herbal notes makes it an excellent pre-dinner aperitif, setting the stage for an elegant dining experience. The vibrant blue hue and refreshing effervescence also make it an eye-catching choice for spring and summer events, particularly those with an upscale or artistic flair.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For an authentic experience, choose a premium Japanese gin such as Roku, Nikka Coffey Gin, or Ki No Bi, which offer refined botanicals suited to this cocktail. Tío Pepe or Lustau fino sherry provides a crisp, dry element that balances the citrus and floral tones. For the blue Curaçao and orange liqueur, brands like Giffard Blue Curaçao and Cointreau ensure a smooth, natural citrus profile. Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur is the top choice for its rich, almond-like cherry notes. Finally, if Cherry Blossom Tonic is unavailable, a floral or elderflower tonic can be a great substitute.

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