Looking for an easy whiskey cocktail? This whisky highball is as simple and refreshing as it gets. As someone who has made their fair share of highballs, this is my go-to when I want something with those rich, smooth whiskey notes – but a bit lighter! Let me show you how to nail it, every time, without fuss.
When I want a no-fuss drink that still feels intentional, I reach for a whiskey highball. It’s clean, refreshing, and made with just three ingredients: whiskey, soda water, and a squeeze of lemon. Each one plays its part, keeping the drink light, bubbly, and easy to sip.
I love that a highball lets the whiskey shine without the intensity of drinking it neat. The soda water softens the edges and lowers the alcohol level to something closer to beer, while the lemon adds a bright, citrusy lift that pulls everything together. It’s simple, but never boring.
Most whiskeys work beautifully here, from bourbon and rye to Canadian or blended styles. I skip anything peaty and save the really pricey bottles for another time since they’ll be diluted anyway. Some Japanese whiskeys, like Suntory Toki, are made specifically for highballs, and they’re especially lovely in this format. Keep this one handy—it’s an easy favorite for whiskey lovers.
Whiskey Highball Recipe
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Ingredients
- ▢ 2 ounces whiskey (Japanese or unpeated Scottish)
- ▢ 6 ounces soda water (see notes)
- ▢ Lemon wedge (to serve)
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey and then soda water. Briefly stir your drink then garnish with a lemon wedge. 2 ounces whiskey, 6 ounces soda water, Lemon wedge
Notes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here .
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Whiskey Highball Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces whiskey , Japanese or unpeated Scottish
- 6 ounces soda water , see notes
- Lemon wedge , to serve
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey and then soda water. Briefly stir your drink then garnish with a lemon wedge. 2 ounces whiskey, 6 ounces soda water, Lemon wedge
