The highball is a timeless template that’s as simple to make as it’s to drink. Probably the most minimal within the canon of classics, the format however permits for loads of experimentation, whether or not it’s with the bottom spirit or liqueur, the modifiers you flip to for bitter, natural or acidic complexity, or the bubbling topper.
Including tropical dimension, for instance, is as simple as swapping out glowing water for coconut water. The swap leads to any variety of easy two-ingredient recipes, just like the basic Scotch & Coconut or the rum-based Coconut Water Highball. Calpico can even stand rather than the standard soda water; the aesthetic dairy drink brings a creamy texture and a lactic tang, which amplifies botanicals in spirits like gin. Alternatively, topping with a bitter soda, equivalent to Sanbittèr or Stappi, is a quick observe to a refreshing aperitivo drink.
Turning to much less anticipated mixtures is one other simple method to refresh the two-ingredient format. Grape soda and inexperienced Chartreuse or Mountain Dew and Suze are just some examples of those bartender-backed “oddball highballs.” Lastly, other than tinkering with the bottom spirit and glowing topper, merely including just a few modifiers can create further layers of taste or texture to the normal two-ingredient highball. Citrus inventory, for instance, made with a mix of citrus husks or peels, provides a straightforward pop of acidity to any drink—attempt it in one thing just like the Kitty Highball or the Añejo Highball rather than lemon or lime juice. Or, flip to a sweetener like silky easy syrup for added physique and richness. In the end, the highball is a forgiving format, so combine and match these methods together with your favourite base and make the drink your personal.
