The Ginger Ale Highball is one of my favorite cocktails, and I’ve mixed a lot of them as a bartender. Any occasion calls for this simple yet delightful cocktail. Not only is it simple to whip up, but the combination of ginger ale and your preferred liquor results in a delightfully smooth and fizzy treat. This beverage is perfect for entertaining guests or unwinding at home.
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Tasting Notes
A harmonious blend of flavors composes the Ginger Ale Highball. The spicy ginger ale is well-complemented by the clean, crisp flavor of the liquor. Every taste is an exciting adventure thanks to the carbonation, which provides a delightful fizz. Anyone looking for an energizing yet silky drink would love this one because of how light and refreshing it is.
Equipment and Glassware
Ginger Ale Highballs are easy to make with basic equipment and glassware. Here’s what you’ll need for this refreshing and fizzy drink:
- Stirrer or Bar Spoon
- Measuring Jigger
- Knife and Cutting board
- Highball Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces of rye whiskey
- Ginger ale
Instructions
- Fill the highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the liquor.
- Top with ginger ale.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of lime or lemon, if you like.
- Enjoy your Ginger Ale Highball.
Pro Tips
- Chill the glass before using it for a colder beverage.
- To make a stronger or milder cocktail, just change the ratio of ginger ale to liquor to taste.
- Find the ginger ale that suits you best by trying a variety of brands.
When to Serve
Any occasion calls for a Ginger Ale Highball because of how adaptable it is. It’s classy enough to serve at cocktail gatherings, cool enough to sip on a hot day, and perfect for unwinding after a long day. Also, it’s a great pick for anyone who wants a modern take on a traditional cocktail.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
The perfect Ginger Ale Highball requires the best rye whiskey. To compliment ginger ale’s zestiness, try Bulleit Rye or Rittenhouse Rye, which balances spice and smoothness. These brands’ rich flavor profiles improve the drink, blending the rye’s warmth with the ginger ale’s crisp effervescence to make every sip enjoyable.
Similar Cocktails
- Moscow Mule – A zesty cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice.
- Dark and Stormy – A bold mix of dark rum and ginger beer, garnished with a lime wedge.
- Jameson & Ginger Ale: A classic, refreshing mix of smooth Jameson Irish whiskey and spicy ginger ale, garnished with a lime wedge for a zesty twist.
- Crown Royal and Ginger Ale: A luxurious blend of rich Crown Royal Canadian whiskey and crisp ginger ale, served over ice for a regal, refreshing experience.
- Presbyterian: A sophisticated cocktail combining whiskey, ginger ale, and club soda for a bubbly, balanced drink with a hint of spice.
History
The Highball sprang out of the common practice of diluting spirits with various mixers, which originated in the latter half of the nineteenth century. Whiskey with ginger ale is a classic summer drink that has stood the test of time. Its timeless beauty and understated sophistication have kept it in the spotlight.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces of rye whiskey
- Ginger ale
Instructions
- Fill the highball glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the liquor.
- Top with ginger ale.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of lime or lemon, if you like.
- Enjoy your Ginger Ale Highball.