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Highball

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description Highball Overview

A Highball is a category of simple mixed drinks composed of a base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, served over ice in a tall glass. The term is most commonly associated with the Scotch and soda, a staple in British and Japanese bars, though it can apply to whiskey and ginger ale or similar combinations. The preparation emphasizes the flavor of the spirit while diluting the alcohol by volume (ABV) to create a refreshing, sessionable beverage. Highballs are favored for their straightforward preparation and are a standard offering in global bar menus.

help Highball FAQ

Why is the highball so popular in Japanese whisky bars?

In Japan, the whisky highball—made with Japanese whisky like Suntory Kakubin and soda water—is a mainstream drink served everywhere from high-end bars to convenience stores. Suntory's highball promotional campaign in the late 2000s is widely credited with reviving Japan's domestic whisky market after decades of decline.

What's the difference between a highball and a whiskey and soda?

A whiskey and soda is actually a type of highball, since a highball is broadly defined as any spirit combined with a non-alcoholic carbonated mixer served over ice. The Scotch and soda is the most iconic highball in British and Japanese bar culture, but the term also covers gin and tonic, rum and cola, and similar combinations.

What glassware should I use for a proper highball?

The highball is served in a tall, straight-sided glass—simply called a highball glass—typically holding 10 to 12 ounces. The narrow shape helps preserve carbonation from the soda and creates the clean visual layering of spirit and mixer that Japanese bartenders are known for.

What spirit-to-mixer ratio makes a good highball?

The classic highball ratio is roughly one part spirit to three parts mixer, poured over plenty of ice. Japanese bartenders often favor a lighter ratio—sometimes one to four or even five—for a more sessionable drink that highlights the whisky's flavor without overwhelming it with alcohol.

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