Bourbon Highball Cocktail Recipe

If you want a drink that’s simple, crisp, and full of flavor without any fuss, the bourbon highball is always a solid choice. All you need is smooth bourbon, some fizzy soda, and a little ice. That’s it. You end up with a refreshing cocktail that feels light but still delivers plenty of taste. There’s no need for a long list of ingredients or any fancy tools.

This cocktail actually comes from the old whiskey highball. The bourbon version makes things even easier to mix and just as tasty. You get the cozy warmth of bourbon, plus the sparkle from club soda or whatever soda you have on hand. It’s perfect for warm days, hanging out with friends, or when you just want something light to sip.

In this guide, you’ll see what goes into a bourbon highball cocktail recipe, how to build your drink the right way, and a few smart ideas for switching it up. I’ll also give you tips for perfect balance, some fun variations, and quick answers to questions people usually ask. So let’s start by breaking down exactly what’s in a Bourbon Highball.

What’s in a Bourbon Highball?

This drink keeps things really simple. You just need bourbon, some soda, and a bit of citrus if you want it. That’s all it takes to make a Bourbon Highball that’s crisp and easy to sip.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Bourbon - Start with a bourbon that’s smooth and balanced. You don’t need to splurge... something in the mid-range is perfect as long as it’s not too smoky or heavy on the oak. If you’re not sure where to start, try Four Roses, Buffalo Trace, or Maker’s Mark (these brands are usually crowd-pleasers). If you want a little more bite, swap in rye whiskey for a spicy kick and a drier finish. You can also experiment with other types of whiskey if you’re curious about changing up the flavor.
• Club Soda - This is the go-to mixer. Club soda really lifts up the bourbon and keeps your drink crisp and refreshing. The fizz adds just the right texture without watering down the flavor. Want to mix things up? Use ginger ale for a sweeter twist or ginger beer if you’re in the mood for more spice. Flavored sparkling water can work too (just make sure it doesn’t take over the bourbon).

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Equipment You’ll Need

You really don’t need much to make a great Bourbon Highball. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Highball glass
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Citrus peeler

If you want to make things even easier, having a durable all-in-one bartender kit for home mixing can keep everything neat and within reach. Take a look at this reliable professional bar tool set for mixing at home if you want to upgrade your setup.

How to Make a Bourbon Highball

To start, grab a tall glass. A highball glass works best. Fill it all the way up with solid ice cubes so your drink stays cold and crisp. More ice keeps the flavor steady.

Pour in your bourbon next. Pick a bourbon that fits your taste. You can go sweet, spicy, or something with a little smoke. Any of those work well here.

Top it with chilled club soda. Hold the bottle close to the glass so you keep all that fizz. A slow pour helps the bubbles stay strong.

Use a bar spoon to stir gently. One or two slow turns is enough to mix everything without losing carbonation.

Finish it with a lemon twist or an orange peel. That small touch adds a clean citrus scent and makes the drink look even better.

If you want the exact measurements and full steps, you’ll find everything in the recipe card below.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Bourbon Highball

• Use a good ratio. A 1 to 3 mix of bourbon to soda is usually the sweet spot for a crisp and balanced drink. If you like it stronger or lighter, just tweak the ratio to fit your taste.
• Go for large, clear ice cubes. They melt slower and keep your drink cold without watering it down. Plus, they look really nice in a tall glass and help the bourbon flavor stay strong.
• Always add the soda last. Pour it in gently so you keep those bubbles popping. Give the drink one gentle stir so you don’t lose the fizz (nobody wants a flat highball).
• Don’t skip the garnish. A lemon twist or orange peel is an easy way to add a little color and fresh aroma. Just hold the peel over your glass and twist it to release the citrus scent. It perks up the whole drink.

Bourbon Highball Variations

• Switch up the mixer. Try ginger beer for a bold, spicy kick, or stick with club soda for a clean, classic taste. If you want it a little sweeter, go with ginger ale (it keeps things crisp but adds just enough sweetness).
• Play with garnishes and add-ins. A few drops of orange or aromatic bitters can make your drink more complex. Fresh lemon, lime, or an orange peel gives your highball a bright, zesty lift.
• Make it easy for a crowd. Mixing up a batch is perfect when you have friends over. Just stir together bourbon and soda in a big pitcher, toss in some ice, and set out a tray of garnishes so everyone can help themselves.
• Want it alcohol-free? Swap the bourbon for a strong iced tea or try a zero-proof whiskey. You’ll still get that nice balance of flavor and fizz. And if you’re vegan, just stick to plant-based mixers and top with fresh fruit.

More Bourbon Cocktails to Try

Once you’ve got the Bourbon Highball down, here are some other bourbon cocktails you’ll want to check out:

• Old Fashioned
• Gold Rush
• Bourbon Buck
• Kentucky Mule
• Black Manhattan
• Bobby Burns
• Ward Eight
• Brooklyn Cocktail
• Paper Plane
• Penicillin
• Bourbon Peach Smash
• Mint Julep

Try a few and see which ones become your new favorites!

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Frequently Asked Questions