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Classic whiskey highball cocktail served in a tall glass with sparkling soda water, clear ice cubes, and lemon garnish on a dark bar background.

Highball Drink Recipe

This refreshing highball drink recipe combines whiskey, sparkling soda water, and ice for a crisp, light, and incredibly easy cocktail. Perfect for parties, summer evenings, or casual entertaining, this classic Japanese-inspired whiskey highball delivers smooth flavor with bubbly refreshment in every sip.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Beverage, Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine: American, Japanese
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz whiskey (Japanese whisky, bourbon, rye, or Scotch)
  • 4-6 oz chilled club soda or sparkling water
  • Large ice cubes
  • 1 lemon twist or lemon slice (optional garnish

Equipment

  • Highball glass
  • Bar spoon or long spoon
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Ice scoop

Method
 

  1. Chill the Glass

    Place your highball glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before preparing the drink. A cold glass helps maintain carbonation and keeps the cocktail extra refreshing.

  2. Add Ice

    Fill the glass completely with large ice cubes. Large cubes melt slower than small cubes and prevent the drink from becoming watery too quickly.

  3. Pour the Whiskey

    Measure and pour 2 ounces of whiskey directly over the ice. Japanese whisky creates a smooth and delicate flavor, while bourbon adds sweetness and richness.

  4. Add Chilled Soda Water

    Slowly pour 4–6 ounces of chilled club soda or sparkling water into the glass. Pouring gently helps preserve the bubbles and keeps the drink fizzy longer.

  5. Stir Gently

    Using a bar spoon, stir once or twice very lightly. Avoid over-stirring because it reduces carbonation.

  6. Garnish and Serve

    Add a lemon twist or lemon slice for fresh citrus aroma and serve immediately while cold and bubbly.

Notes

Highball Drink Recipe

  • Always use very cold ingredients for the crispiest highball flavor.
  • Premium soda water creates better carbonation and texture.
  • Japanese bartenders often chill both the glass and whiskey beforehand for the perfect highball experience.
  • For a stronger cocktail, reduce the amount of soda water slightly.

Recipe Tips

Use Quality Whiskey

A smooth whiskey makes a major difference in flavor. Japanese whisky and light bourbon work especially well.

Keep Everything Cold

Warm soda loses carbonation quickly. Chill all ingredients before mixing.

Use Large Ice Cubes

Large ice melts slower and keeps the drink crisp without diluting it too fast.

Experiment With Garnishes

Try orange peel, lime wedges, rosemary, or grapefruit slices for different flavor profiles.
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