Whisky Highball Cocktail - ABV, Recipe & Taste Guide
ABV Technique Glass 용량
12.0% BUILD HIGHBALL 135ml

What is Whisky Highball?

The Whisky Highball is a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail made by mixing whisky with soda water, with an ABV of approximately 12%.

Named after the highball glass it's served in with ice, it's the simplest and most refreshing way to enjoy whisky.

It gained tremendous popularity in Japan as "Highball (ハイボール)," creating a new trend in global whisky culture.

Whisky Highball ABV

The Whisky Highball has an ABV of approximately 12%, placing it in the medium range for cocktails.

Whisky (40%) at 45ml combined with 90ml of soda water, plus slight dilution from the build method, creates roughly 12% alcohol content.

It's much lighter than neat whisky (40%) and higher than beer (5%). Thanks to the carbonation's refreshing quality, you can enjoy whisky's flavors without the intensity.

Whisky Highball Ingredients

Whisky
Soda water

Whisky Highball Recipe

  1. Fill a highball glass with plenty of ice.
  2. Pour 45ml whisky.
  3. Slowly top with 90ml soda water and stir gently.

Adjust the whisky-to-soda ratio to 1:2 or 1:3 to match your preference.

Whisky Highball Taste

The Whisky Highball opens with soda water's cool carbonation effervescing refreshingly.

This is followed by whisky's characteristic grain notes, oak, and subtle vanilla and caramel undertones spreading and blending naturally with the carbonation.

Overall light and refreshing while preserving whisky's inherent flavors. Highly recommended for those new to whisky or anyone wanting a light drink to accompany a meal.

Whisky Highball History

There are several theories about the Highball's origin, but it's presumed to have been created in late 19th century Britain or America. The name "Highball" is believed to derive from American railroad signals.

The Whisky Highball gained global recognition thanks to Suntory's "Highball" campaign in Japan during the 2000s. In Japan, it became popular alongside izakaya culture, significantly increasing whisky consumption.

Today, the Highball has become a global trend for enjoying whisky casually, and serves as a base cocktail that can be varied with different whiskies, tonic, ginger ale, and more.