highball

A highball is a class of mixed drinks composed of a base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer, served over ice in a tall glass. The defining feature is the balance toward dilution and carbonation, producing a light, refreshing drink. The most famous example is the whiskey highball, typically whiskey with soda water, in a ratio around 1:3 or 1:4, though proportions vary by locale. Other common highballs use different base spirits, such as gin and tonic, vodka and soda, or scotch and soda.

Origins: Highballs gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century with the rise of soda water and bottled mixers. The exact origin of the term is uncertain; several theories exist, including connections to railroad slang and to the tall glass traditionally used for these drinks.

Preparation and serving: The drink is usually built directly in a tall glass. Fill the glass with ice, add the base spirit, top with the mixer, and stir gently. Garnishes are optional; a lemon or lime wheel or twist is sometimes used, but many highballs are served unadorned to emphasize the mixer.

Variations and notes: The highball concept encompasses many spirit-and-mixer combinations beyond whiskey, including gin, vodka, or tequila paired with soda, tonic, or citrus-flavored sodas. In some regions, the term simply describes any spirit-forward drink served in a tall glass over ice with a mixer.