Paul Kushner
The Blue Angel Highball is a crisp and refreshing cocktail that combines the delicate botanicals of Japanese gin with the dry, nutty notes of fino sherry and the citrusy brightness of blue curaçao. A touch of maraschino liqueur adds a subtle sweetness, while chilled Cherry Blossom Tonic enhances the drink with floral and slightly tart undertones.
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The maraschino cherry garnish provides a classic, elegant finish, making this cocktail as visually striking as it is flavorful. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a refined drink, this highball offers a unique balance of citrus, floral, and herbal notes.
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.
Similar Cocktails
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.
Notes
- 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.
