What is a Highball?

A highball is a traditional cocktail that is easy to make and made up mostly of a base spirit and a non-alcoholic mixer, usually a fizzy beverage.

This drink is a pleasant choice for individuals who like a lighter, bubbly beverage and is often served in a tall glass over ice. The highball is a flexible beverage that can be produced with many alcoholic beverages, including whiskey, gin, vodka, or rum, as well as various mixers, including tonic water, ginger ale, or soda.

For more than a century, the highball has been a well-liked drink that people all over the world have sipped on. The phrase “highball” is thought to have been used by railroad workers in the late 1800s to describe a train traveling at top speed.

The term was then used to describe a cocktail that was served “high” in a tall glass; hence, the name “highball.” Today, the highball is still a well-liked beverage because of its simplicity, adaptability, and refreshing flavor.

The highball is a terrific choice if you’re searching for a refreshing cocktail to mix up at home or a light drink to sip on a hot summer day. It is no surprise that this traditional cocktail has endured the test of time given its simple preparation method and limitless variations.

What is a Highball?

Definition

A highball is a type of cocktail that consists of a base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, often a carbonated beverage.

The drink is typically served in a tall, narrow glass known as a highball glass or hi-ball glass. The ratio of alcohol to mixer in a highball is generally lower than in other cocktails, making it a lighter and more refreshing option.

The highball is a versatile drink that can be made with a variety of spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, and rum. The mixer can also vary, with popular options including soda water, tonic water, ginger ale, and cola. The drink can be garnished with a twist of citrus or a sprig of herbs for added flavor and aroma.

History

The highball has been a popular cocktail since the late 19th century when it was first introduced in the United States. The drink was originally made with whiskey and soda water and was served in a tall glass to highlight the effervescence of the soda. Over time, the drink evolved to include other spirits and mixers and became a staple of cocktail menus around the world.

Today, the highball remains a popular choice for those looking for a light and refreshing cocktail. Its simplicity and versatility make it an easy drink to mix up at home, and its low alcohol content makes it a good option for those who want to enjoy a cocktail without getting too tipsy.

In summary, the highball is a classic cocktail that consists of a base spirit and a non-alcoholic mixer, served in a tall glass. The drink is light and refreshing and can be made with a variety of spirits and mixers. Its history dates back to the late 19th century, and it remains a popular choice for cocktail lovers today.

The Anatomy of a Highball

A highball is a classic cocktail made up of a base spirit, a non-alcoholic mixer, and a garnish.

It is typically served in a highball glass, which is a tall and narrow glass that can hold up to 12 fluid ounces. Here are the key components of a highball:

Base Spirit

The base spirit is the alcoholic component of a highball, and it can vary depending on the recipe. Whiskey, gin, vodka, and rum are all popular choices for a highball. The base spirit is usually poured over ice in the highball glass, and the amount can vary depending on the recipe and the desired strength of the drink.

Mixer

The mixer is a non-alcoholic component of a highball that is used to dilute and flavor the base spirit. Common mixers for a highball include soda water, ginger ale, cola, and tonic water. The amount of mixer used can vary depending on the recipe and the desired strength of the drink.

Garnish

The garnish is an optional component of a highball that is used to add flavor and visual appeal to the drink. Common garnishes for a highball include citrus fruits like lemon or lime, herbs like mint or basil, and even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. The garnish is usually placed on top of the drink or used to rim the glass.

Glass

The highball glass is a tall and narrow glass that is used to serve a highball cocktail. It typically holds up to 12 fluid ounces and has straight sides and a wide rim. The glass is designed to showcase the layers of the drink and make it easy to sip.

In summary, a highball is a classic cocktail made up of a base spirit, a non-alcoholic mixer, and a garnish. It is typically served in a highball glass, which is a tall and narrow glass that can hold up to 12 fluid ounces. The base spirit, mixer, and garnish can vary depending on the recipe, and the highball glass is designed to showcase the layers of the drink and make it easy to sip.

Popular Highball Recipes

Highballs are a classic cocktail enjoyed by many.

They are simple, refreshing, and easy to make. Here are some of the most popular highball recipes:

Whiskey Highball

The Whiskey Highball is a classic cocktail made with whiskey and soda water. It is a simple and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. To make a Whiskey Highball, simply fill a highball glass with ice, add 1-2 oz of whiskey, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

Vodka Soda

The Vodka Soda is a popular highball cocktail that is easy to make and perfect for those who prefer a lighter drink. To make a Vodka Soda, simply fill a highball glass with ice, add 1-2 oz of vodka, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Gin and Tonic

The Gin and Tonic is a classic highball cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. To make a Gin and Tonic, simply fill a highball glass with ice, add 1-2 oz of gin, and top with tonic water. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Scotch and Soda

The Scotch and Soda is a simple and elegant highball cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy the taste of scotch. To make a Scotch and Soda, simply fill a highball glass with ice, add 1-2 oz of scotch, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

Presbyterian

The Presbyterian is a classic highball cocktail made with whiskey, ginger ale, and soda water. To make a Presbyterian, simply fill a highball glass with ice, add 1-2 oz of whiskey, and top with equal parts ginger ale and soda water. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

Variations on the Highball

Highballs are a versatile and refreshing cocktail that can be customized to suit any taste.

Here are some popular variations on the classic highball recipe:

Japanese Highball

The Japanese Highball is a popular variation that originated in Japan. It is made with Japanese whiskey, soda water, and ice. The whiskey used in this recipe is typically a blended whiskey, such as Suntory Toki or Nikka From The Barrel. The Japanese Highball is known for its smooth and refreshing taste, and is often served in a tall glass over ice.

Whiskey Sour Highball

The Whiskey Sour Highball is a twist on the classic Whiskey Sour cocktail. It is made with whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. The lemon juice and simple syrup give the drink a sweet and sour flavor, while the soda water adds a refreshing fizz. This cocktail is often served in a tall glass over ice, with a lemon wedge for garnish.

Rum and Coke Highball

The Rum and Coke Highball is a simple and classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with rum, Coca-Cola, and ice. This cocktail is typically served in a tall glass over ice, with a lime wedge for garnish. The Rum and Coke Highball is known for its sweet and slightly spicy flavor, and is a popular choice for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail.

Vodka Cranberry Highball

The Vodka Cranberry Highball is a popular variation on the classic Vodka Cranberry cocktail. It is made with vodka, cranberry juice, soda water, and ice. This cocktail is typically served in a tall glass over ice, with a lime wedge for garnish. The Vodka Cranberry Highball is known for its sweet and tart flavor, and is a popular choice for those who prefer a fruity cocktail.