Matcha Whiskey Highball

The Matcha Whiskey Highball is a bright, slightly earthy take on a classic highball. Japanese whisky gives it a smooth base, while lemon juice and honey syrup bring a light, citrusy sweetness. A pinch of matcha adds a subtle green tea note that works well with the whisky’s warmth. Finished with chilled club soda and a lemon wheel, it’s crisp, refreshing, and just a little different in a good way. Inspired by foodandwine.com.

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Tasting Notes

The Matcha Whiskey Highball blends smooth Japanese whisky with crisp lemon, soft honey sweetness, and a hint of earthy matcha. The club soda lightens everything up and gives it a bubbly finish that’s refreshing and easy to drink. The matcha is subtle but noticeable it adds a clean, green edge that pairs well with the citrus and brings something a little different to the glass. It’s not too sweet, not too bitter. Each sip is cool, slightly herbal, and balanced with a bit of brightness from the lemon and a light fizz on the finish.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, bar spoon, and fine mesh strainer. A small whisk or matcha bamboo whisk helps blend the powder smoothly no clumps. For glassware, a highball glass is the obvious choice. It’s tall enough to hold the fizz and keeps everything chilled when filled with ice. If you want the cleanest texture, mix the matcha with a splash of warm water before shaking it with the other ingredients. Don’t forget to chill your glass or fill it with ice before you begin mixing.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Japanese whisky
• ½ oz lemon juice
• ½ oz honey syrup
• ¼ tsp matcha powder
• 4 oz chilled club soda
• Lemon wheel, for garnish

Instructions

• In a small bowl or shaker, whisk matcha powder with lemon juice and honey syrup until fully dissolved.
• Add the mixture and whisky to a highball glass filled with ice.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Top with chilled club soda and give it a light stir.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Pro Tips

• Whisk matcha with warm water first for a smoother blend.
• Use good-quality matcha culinary grade or better.
• Shake matcha before adding ice to avoid clumping.
• Chill all ingredients and glassware for a cleaner highball.
• Stir gently after topping with soda to keep bubbles.
• Use honey syrup (1:1 honey and water) for easier mixing.
• Add a pinch of salt to highlight flavors if desired.

When to Serve

This Matcha Whiskey Highball is perfect for warm evenings, laid-back dinners, or when you want a refreshing drink with a twist. It’s light, crisp, and easy to pair with sushi, grilled chicken, or salty snacks. Serve it at cocktail hour, brunch, or low-key get-togethers when you want something fresh that’s not overly strong. The matcha gives it a unique feel, so it also works well for more creative cocktail menus or tasting nights. If you’re mixing for someone who enjoys earthy flavors or Japanese whisky, this one’s a solid pick.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Japanese Whisky: Suntory Toki, Nikka Days, or Mars Iwai
• Matcha Powder: MatchaBar, Encha, or Ippodo (culinary grade)
• Honey Syrup: Mix equal parts honey and warm water
• Club Soda: Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, or Schweppes
• Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed always works best
• Garnish: Thin lemon wheel, fresh or dehydrated

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