Blue Angel Highball

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.

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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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