Employ a highball glass for a liquor-based carbonated drink
The design of highball glasses allows tall, effervescent cocktails to truly stand out. Unlike wide-rimmed martini or coupe glasses, highballs have a smaller surface area, which helps maintain the drink's fizz. Additionally, the glass's volume is perfectly calibrated to accommodate all the cocktail ingredients along with ice. This makes it simple to mix the entire drink directly in the glass, eliminating the need for a shaker.
Many classic cocktails fit this mold, including gin and tonic, rum and coke, and the ever-popular whiskey highball. Traditionally, highballs do not include fruit, which distinguishes them from Collins or Rickey cocktails that are served in larger glasses. However, these conventions are changing, as modern recipes now incorporate inventive syrups, liqueurs, bitters, and more. Classic soda and spirit combinations are also being replaced with unique highball variations, such as the nostalgic 7 And 7 instead of a rum and coke.
These diverse options create a wealth of drinks perfect for savoring in a highball glass, offering a wide range of flavors. From a Dark 'n Stormy to a Paloma or an Americano, the highball glass remains a staple in many mixology circles.
The highball glass itself plays an important role in cocktail creation
Since highball cocktails are prepared directly in the glass, the characteristics of the serving vessel are crucial to consider. An ideal drink should be served in an 8 to 10-ounce glass, featuring a 2-ounce pour of the base spirit. While the exact ratio can differ, it typically ranges from equal parts to as much as three times the amount of carbonated water compared to the liquor. It's essential to measure accurately, especially in a larger glass, as it's easy to create a drink that is either too strong or too diluted.
As with other cocktails, chilling the mixture is vital. The glass should be filled with clear ice, and both the glass and the liquor should be pre-chilled. Maintaining low temperatures not only enhances the drink's refreshing quality but also helps preserve the carbonation. Additionally, the ice will melt more slowly, keeping the ratios intact. To achieve a delightful crispness in your highball, choose a well-sized glass that effectively retains the cold.
Unfortunately, many commercially available glass options tend to be oversized, reaching up to 20 ounces. Although they are labeled as highball glasses, such vessels can actually hinder the creation of the perfect carbonated drink. Therefore, it's not just about the type of glass, but also its specific capacity.
Recommended
You Can Buy A Full Bottle Of The World's Cheapest Liquor For Under $1
You'll Want This Pumpkin Spice Rim For Every Fall Cocktail
Full Proof, Barrel Proof, And Cask Strength Bourbon: The Differences Explained
What Company Really Makes Costco's Kirkland Brand Canadian Whisky?
Next up