Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic17.6% ABV5 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 5 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Rich Food, Charcuterie, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierMixerGarnish
- 3/4 ozBrandyBase
- 3/4 ozGinBase
- 3/4 ozSweet VermouthModifier
- to tasteCarbonated WaterMixer
- 1 garnishLemon PeelGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirTop
- Pour brandy, gin, and sweet vermouth into a highball glass over ice cubes.
- Fill with carbonated water.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
- Add the twist of lemon peel, stir, and serve. (Ginger ale may be substituted for carbonated water, if preferred.)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
Swap notes
Base spiritsThis drink uses more than one base spirit, so changing one bottle can shift the balance quickly. Keep the total spirit amount similar and swap within a similar style if you want the drink to stay close to the original.CitrusA citrus twist mostly changes aroma, not acidity. Lemon, orange and grapefruit twists each push the drink in a different direction.
GarnishA citrus twist adds aroma and oils to the surface of the drink without changing acidity. Lemon is sharp and clean, orange is softer and sweeter, grapefruit is more bitter. Express the peel over the glass and wipe the rim for maximum impact.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a English Highball?
- The English Highball is a cocktail made with 5 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 17.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 140 calories.
- What does a English Highball taste like?
- English Highball has a flavour profile featuring Herbal, Citrus, Sparkling, Botanical. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a English Highball?
- English Highball pairs well with Rich Food, Charcuterie, Cheese. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a English Highball?
- The English Highball has an ABV of approximately 17.6%. That's approximately 1.25 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 140 calories, 2.2g sugar, 3.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a English Highball typically served?
- English Highball is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a English Highball?
- If you enjoy English 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 English Highball at home?
- Yes. The English Highball uses 5 ingredients, making it straightforward 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 English 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.