Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic18% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: BBQ, Steak, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetener
- 2.0 ozJuice Of A LemonCitrus
- 1.0 ozPowdered SugarSweetener
- 2.0 ozOld Thompson Blended WhiskeyBase
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
- Stir with ice cubes in highball glass and fill with ginger ale.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Cablegram Highball?
- The Cablegram Highball is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 18.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 225 calories.
- What does a Cablegram Highball taste like?
- Cablegram Highball has a flavour profile featuring Sugar, Lemon, Sweet, Citrus. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Cablegram Highball?
- Cablegram Highball pairs well with BBQ, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Cablegram Highball?
- The Cablegram Highball has an ABV of approximately 18.0%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 225 calories, 18.0g sugar, 20.6g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Cablegram Highball typically served?
- Cablegram Highball is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer, Weekend Drinks. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Cablegram Highball?
- If you enjoy Cablegram Highball, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Cablegram Highball at home?
- Yes. The Cablegram Highball uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Cablegram Highball with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.