18 Refreshing Highball Recipes for Summer Nights

Just imagine: a warm summer evening, good company, and a tall, clinking glass in hand. Highballs are the ultimate warm-weather sipper—effortless, bubbly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just unwinding after a long day, these 18 refreshing recipes are your ticket to cool, delicious nights. Let’s dive in and find your new favorite summer sip!

Classic Whiskey Highball with Ginger Ale

Glistening with effervescent charm, the Classic Whiskey Highball with Ginger Ale stands as a testament to timeless mixology, where smooth whiskey meets the spicy kick of ginger in a refreshing symphony of flavors. Perfect for both intimate gatherings and celebratory moments, this elegant cocktail requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum sophistication. Its crisp, clean profile makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a refined yet approachable beverage.

Ingredients

– 2 oz whiskey
– 4 oz ginger ale
– 1 cup ice cubes
– 1 lemon wedge

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz of whiskey directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Slowly add 4 oz of ginger ale down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
4. Gently stir the mixture 5-6 times with a bar spoon to combine without excessive agitation.
5. Squeeze the juice from 1 lemon wedge into the drink, releasing essential oils.
6. Drop the spent lemon wedge into the glass as garnish.
7. Serve immediately while the drink remains chilled and effervescent.

Sipping this highball reveals a delightful interplay between the whiskey’s oak notes and ginger ale’s spicy sweetness, creating a crisp, effervescent texture that dances on the palate. For an elegant presentation, consider serving it in a frosty glass with a candied ginger garnish, or pair it with sharp cheeses to complement its sophisticated flavor profile.

Sparkling Gin Highball with Cucumber and Mint

Meticulously crafted and refreshingly sophisticated, this Sparkling Gin Highball with Cucumber and Mint offers a crisp escape from the ordinary. The botanical notes of premium gin harmonize beautifully with the cool freshness of cucumber and the bright aroma of mint, creating a cocktail that feels both luxurious and effortlessly approachable. Each sip delivers a symphony of flavors that dance across the palate, making it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or quiet moment of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 4 oz chilled club soda
• 3 thin cucumber slices
• 6 fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• ice cubes

Instructions

1. Place 6 fresh mint leaves and 3 thin cucumber slices in the bottom of a highball glass.
2. Gently muddle the mint and cucumber using a muddler or the back of a spoon, applying just enough pressure to release their oils and juices without tearing the mint leaves.
3. Fill the highball glass three-quarters full with ice cubes, ensuring they’re packed tightly to maintain proper chilling throughout serving.
4. Pour 2 oz gin directly over the ice, allowing it to cascade through the ice for optimal mixing.
5. Add 1/2 oz fresh lime juice to the glass, using freshly squeezed juice for the brightest, most vibrant citrus flavor.
6. Measure and pour 1/2 oz simple syrup into the mixture, creating the perfect balance of sweetness to complement the botanical gin notes.
7. Slowly top the cocktail with 4 oz chilled club soda, pouring it down the side of the glass to preserve maximum carbonation.
8. Using a long bar spoon, gently stir the mixture 8-10 times to combine all ingredients while maintaining the soda’s effervescence.
9. Garnish the rim with an additional thin cucumber slice and a sprig of fresh mint for visual appeal.

Offering a delightfully crisp texture with tiny bubbles that tickle the tongue, this highball presents a sophisticated balance of botanical complexity and refreshing lightness. The cucumber provides a clean, cooling undertone that perfectly complements the mint’s aromatic brightness, while the gin’s juniper notes shine through with elegant clarity. For an extra touch of luxury, serve it in a frosty glass rimmed with citrus sugar or accompany it with cucumber-infused ice cubes that slowly release additional flavor as they melt.

Bourbon Peach Highball with Lemon Soda

Kindly crafted for those golden autumn afternoons when the air carries just enough crispness to appreciate warmth, this bourbon peach highball marries the rich, oaky notes of Kentucky whiskey with the sun-ripened sweetness of seasonal peaches, all lifted by the bright effervescence of lemon soda. Perfectly balanced and refreshingly sophisticated, it transforms simple ingredients into an elegant libation worthy of any gathering. Each sip delivers a harmonious blend of fruit-forward complexity and spirited depth.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches
• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1/2 cup lemon soda
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 sprig fresh mint

Instructions

1. Wash and pit 2 ripe peaches, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick wedges.
2. Place peach slices in a cocktail shaker and muddle firmly for 30 seconds until they release their juices and become pulpy.
3. Pour 2 ounces of bourbon into the shaker with the muddled peaches.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the mixture.
5. Fill the shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
6. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
7. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a highball glass filled with fresh ice to remove peach pulp.
8. Slowly top with 1/2 cup of chilled lemon soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
9. Gently stir once with a bar spoon to combine layers without flattening the bubbles.
10. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint by lightly clapping it between your palms to release its aroma before placing on the rim.

Effortlessly chic, this highball presents with a vibrant golden hue and persistent effervescence that carries the aromatic bouquet of peach and mint. The first sip reveals a silky texture from the fruit’s natural pectin, followed by the bourbon’s warm vanilla notes that meld seamlessly with the honey’s floral sweetness. For an imaginative twist, serve it in frosty copper mugs to enhance the visual appeal and maintain its chilled temperature throughout leisurely enjoyment.

Vodka Highball with Grapefruit and Rosemary

On brisk autumn evenings, few libations capture the season’s sophisticated spirit quite like this elegant vodka highball. Offering a perfect balance of citrus brightness and herbal complexity, this cocktail transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary sensory experience. The subtle interplay of grapefruit and rosemary creates a drink that feels both contemporary and timeless.

Ingredients

– 2 oz vodka
– 4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 1 oz simple syrup
– 4 oz chilled club soda
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– 1 grapefruit wedge
– Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Chill a highball glass by filling it with ice and water, then letting it sit for 2 minutes before emptying.
2. Fill the chilled glass with fresh ice cubes, ensuring they reach about three-quarters full.
3. Pour 2 oz vodka directly over the ice in the glass.
4. Add 4 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice to the glass.
5. Measure and pour 1 oz simple syrup into the mixture.
6. Gently stir the ingredients 8-10 times with a bar spoon to combine without bruising the spirits.
7. Slowly top with 4 oz chilled club soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
8. Lightly slap a fresh rosemary sprig between your palms to release its aromatic oils before garnishing.
9. Place the activated rosemary sprig and a fresh grapefruit wedge on the rim of the glass.
10. Serve immediately with a stirring rod for optional mixing before sipping.

Yielded with vibrant effervescence, this highball presents a beautifully layered drinking experience where the crisp grapefruit notes dance gracefully with the vodka’s clean profile. The rosemary’s piney aroma enhances each sip without overwhelming the delicate balance, making it perfect for serving in frosty glasses at intimate gatherings or as a refined pre-dinner aperitif.

Rum Highball with Pineapple Juice and Coconut Water

Capturing the essence of tropical elegance, this sophisticated rum highball artfully blends aged spirits with the natural sweetness of pineapple and the subtle hydration of coconut water. Perfect for warm evenings or celebratory gatherings, each sip offers a refined balance of complex flavors that transport you to sun-drenched shores.

Ingredients

• 2 oz aged rum
• 3 oz pineapple juice
• 2 oz coconut water
• 4 oz club soda
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1 pineapple wedge

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with 1 cup of ice cubes, ensuring they reach the rim.
2. Pour 2 oz of aged rum directly over the ice in the highball glass.
3. Add 3 oz of pineapple juice to the glass, pouring it slowly down the side to preserve carbonation.
4. Measure and pour 2 oz of coconut water into the mixture, using chilled coconut water for optimal flavor integration.
5. Top the drink with 4 oz of club soda, pouring gently to maintain effervescence throughout serving.
6. Stir the mixture 8-10 times with a long bar spoon, reaching the bottom of the glass to properly combine ingredients without excessive dilution.
7. Garnish the rim with a fresh pineapple wedge, cutting a 1-inch thick slice from a ripe pineapple.

Layered with nuanced complexity, this highball presents a silky texture that carries the oak notes from the rum through to the bright pineapple finish. The coconut water provides a delicate mineral backbone that enhances rather than overwhelms, making it ideal for serving in copper mugs for added visual appeal during evening entertaining.

Japanese Highball with Suntory Whisky and Soda

Masterfully bridging Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary cocktail culture, the Japanese Highball elevates the simple combination of whisky and soda into an art form. Meticulously balanced and refreshingly crisp, this sophisticated drink showcases Suntory Whisky’s nuanced character while maintaining remarkable drinkability. Perfect for both casual gatherings and elegant affairs, its clean presentation belies the precision required to achieve its signature effervescent harmony.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Suntory Whisky
• 4 ounces chilled club soda
• 1 large ice cube
• 1 lemon twist

Instructions

1. Chill a highball glass in the freezer for 15 minutes until frost forms on the exterior.
2. Place 1 large ice cube in the center of the chilled glass, ensuring it sits evenly.
3. Pour 2 ounces of Suntory Whisky directly over the ice cube, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
4. Slowly add 4 ounces of chilled club soda by pouring it along the inside edge of the glass to preserve carbonation.
5. Using a bar spoon, gently stir the mixture exactly three times in an upward motion to integrate without over-diluting.
6. Express the oils from 1 lemon twist by holding it skin-side down over the drink and giving it a sharp twist.
7. Run the expressed lemon twist around the rim of the glass before dropping it into the cocktail.
8. Serve immediately while the drink maintains its vigorous effervescence and chilled temperature.

An effervescent masterpiece, this highball delivers Suntory Whisky’s honeyed oak notes lifted by crisp citrus aromatics and the clean finish of perfectly integrated soda. The large ice cube maintains ideal dilution while preserving the drink’s crystalline clarity and vibrant carbonation throughout enjoyment. Consider garnishing with a slender cucumber ribbon during summer months for an additional layer of refreshing complexity.

Tequila Highball with Lime and Agave Syrup

Perfectly balancing sophistication with approachability, this Tequila Highball elevates the classic cocktail with bright citrus notes and subtle sweetness. Crafted with premium blanco tequila and freshly squeezed lime, it delivers a refreshing complexity that transitions effortlessly from afternoon gatherings to evening soirees. The addition of agave syrup harmonizes the flavors, creating a drink that feels both luxurious and effortlessly enjoyable.

Ingredients

• 2 oz blanco tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz agave syrup
• 4 oz chilled club soda
• 1 lime wedge
• ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes to ensure proper chilling.
2. Pour 2 oz blanco tequila directly over the ice.
3. Add 1 oz fresh lime juice, using juice squeezed within the last hour for optimal brightness.
4. Measure 0.5 oz agave syrup and pour into the glass.
5. Stir the mixture vigorously for 15 seconds with a long bar spoon to properly incorporate the agave syrup.
6. Slowly top with 4 oz chilled club soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
7. Gently stir once more with an up-and-down motion to combine without losing bubbles.
8. Express the oils from 1 lime wedge by squeezing it peel-side down over the drink.
9. Drop the spent lime wedge into the glass as garnish.

Meticulously layered, this highball presents crisp effervescence that carries the tequila’s clean herbal notes through each sip. The agave syrup provides a velvety sweetness that melds beautifully with the sharp citrus, while the generous carbonation creates a lively mouthfeel. For an elegant presentation, serve in frost-rimmed glasses or accompany with spicy roasted pepitas to contrast the drink’s bright profile.

Scotch Highball with Honey and Lemon

There’s something undeniably sophisticated about the way a perfectly balanced highball can elevate an ordinary evening into something memorable. This Scotch Highball variation introduces the gentle sweetness of honey and the bright acidity of fresh lemon to create a cocktail that feels both classic and refreshingly modern. The result is a drink that manages to be simultaneously complex and effortlessly approachable.

Ingredients

– 2 oz Scotch whisky
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1/2 lemon
– 4 oz chilled club soda
– 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon into a cocktail shaker, being careful to strain out any seeds.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the lemon juice in the shaker.
3. Stir the honey and lemon juice vigorously for 30 seconds until the honey is completely dissolved.
4. Pour 2 ounces of Scotch whisky into the shaker with the honey-lemon mixture.
5. Fill the shaker with ice cubes until it’s three-quarters full.
6. Shake the mixture vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
7. Fill a highball glass completely with fresh ice cubes.
8. Strain the shaken cocktail mixture into the prepared highball glass.
9. Slowly pour 4 ounces of chilled club soda down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
10. Gently stir the drink twice with a bar spoon to combine without losing bubbles.
11. Express a lemon peel over the drink by twisting it to release the citrus oils.
12. Garnish with the expressed lemon peel placed on the rim of the glass.

Subtle honey notes mellow the Scotch’s smokiness while the lemon provides a crisp counterpoint that dances across the palate. The effervescent texture makes each sip feel light and refreshing, perfect for serving alongside smoked almonds or as an aperitif before a rich meal. Consider rimming the glass with a light sugar-salt blend for an extra textural element that complements the drink’s sweet-tart profile.

Spiced Rum Highball with Ginger Beer

Nothing elevates an autumn evening quite like the sophisticated warmth of a perfectly crafted cocktail. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Spiced Rum Highball with Ginger Beer, where rich Caribbean spices meet the fiery kick of premium ginger beer. This elegant libation transforms simple ingredients into a complex symphony of flavors that dances across the palate with remarkable finesse.

Ingredients

– 2 oz spiced rum
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 tsp simple syrup
– 4 ice cubes
– 1 lime wheel

Instructions

1. Chill a highball glass in the freezer for 10 minutes to ensure your cocktail stays perfectly cold.
2. Fill the chilled glass with 4 ice cubes, arranging them neatly to create an even foundation.
3. Pour 2 oz of spiced rum directly over the ice, allowing it to settle at the bottom of the glass.
4. Add 1/2 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice, taking care to strain out any pulp or seeds for a cleaner texture.
5. Drizzle 1 tsp of simple syrup around the interior edge of the glass to distribute sweetness evenly.
6. Slowly top with 4 oz of ginger beer, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
7. Gently stir the mixture 5-6 times with a bar spoon, lifting from the bottom to incorporate ingredients without excessive dilution.
8. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel placed delicately on the rim of the glass.
9. Serve immediately while the effervescence remains vibrant and the temperature is optimally chilled.

Beyond the initial sip, this cocktail reveals layers of complexity that make it truly memorable. The velvety texture carries notes of caramel and vanilla from the rum, while the ginger beer provides a satisfying effervescent bite that cleanses the palate. Consider serving it alongside spiced nuts or dark chocolate to complement its warm, aromatic profile, or present it in a copper mug for an extra touch of rustic elegance.

Champagne Highball with St. Germain and Soda

Heralding the perfect balance between celebration and everyday elegance, this Champagne Highball with St. Germain and Soda elevates the classic cocktail into something truly special. Here, the delicate floral notes of elderflower liqueur mingle with crisp Champagne and effervescent soda water, creating a drink that feels both luxurious and refreshingly light. It’s an effortless pour that transforms any moment into an occasion worth savoring.

Ingredients

– 4 oz Champagne
– 1 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur
– 2 oz soda water
– 1 lemon twist

Instructions

1. Chill a highball glass in the freezer for 10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare ingredients to ensure your drink stays cold longer.
2. Pour 1 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur into the chilled glass.
3. Slowly add 4 oz Champagne down the side of the glass to preserve its bubbles.
4. Top with 2 oz soda water, pouring gently to maintain carbonation.
5. Using a vegetable peeler, remove a 2-inch long strip of zest from a fresh lemon, ensuring you avoid the bitter white pith.
6. Twist the lemon zest over the drink to release its oils, then rub it along the rim of the glass before dropping it in as garnish.
7. Stir once gently with a long bar spoon to combine without deflating the bubbles.
From its delicate floral aroma to the bright, citrus-kissed finish, this highball offers a symphony of effervescent textures and refined flavors. For a creative twist, serve it alongside brunch favorites like smoked salmon canapés or enjoy it as a sophisticated aperitif before an intimate dinner party.

Rye Whiskey Highball with Apple Cider

Refreshingly sophisticated yet wonderfully approachable, this rye whiskey highball with apple cider combines the spicy complexity of aged spirits with the crisp sweetness of autumn’s favorite fruit. Perfectly balanced and elegantly simple, it transforms basic ingredients into a cocktail that feels both celebratory and comforting. As the seasons shift, this drink offers a warm welcome to cooler evenings and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

– 2 oz rye whiskey
– 4 oz apple cider
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 4 oz chilled club soda
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 thin apple slice
– 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz rye whiskey directly over the ice in the glass.
3. Add 4 oz apple cider to the glass, pouring it gently down the side to preserve carbonation.
4. Squeeze 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice into the mixture using a citrus juicer.
5. Slowly top with 4 oz chilled club soda, tilting the glass slightly to minimize foam.
6. Stir the cocktail gently 5-6 times with a long bar spoon to combine ingredients without over-diluting.
7. Garnish by placing 1 cinnamon stick and 1 thin apple slice on the rim of the glass.
8. Serve immediately while the drink remains cold and effervescent.

Aromatic and effervescent, this highball delivers layers of spicy rye warmth followed by crisp apple brightness. The gentle carbonation lifts the flavors while the cinnamon garnish adds visual appeal and subtle spice notes. For an elegant presentation, serve in frosty glasses rimmed with cinnamon sugar or accompany with sharp cheddar cheese to contrast the drink’s natural sweetness.

Mezcal Highball with Grapefruit and Chili Salt

Whispering of sun-drenched agave fields and vibrant Mexican markets, this mezcal highball elevates the classic cocktail with sophisticated layers of smoke, citrus, and spice. The earthy complexity of artisanal mezcal finds perfect harmony with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, while a delicate chili salt rim adds both visual appeal and a subtle kick of heat. Each sip unfolds like a carefully choreographed dance between bold flavors and refreshing effervescence.

Ingredients

– 2 ounces mezcal
– 3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
– 4 ounces club soda
– 1 tablespoon coarse salt
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 grapefruit wedge
– Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine 1 tablespoon coarse salt and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder on a small plate, mixing thoroughly with a fork.
2. Run the grapefruit wedge around the rim of a highball glass to moisten it completely.
3. Dip the moistened glass rim into the chili salt mixture, rotating to coat evenly.
4. Fill the prepared glass with ice cubes, stacking them to within 1 inch of the rim.
5. Pour 2 ounces mezcal over the ice in a steady stream.
6. Add 3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice, allowing it to settle between the ice cubes.
7. Top with 4 ounces club soda, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
8. Gently stir twice with a bar spoon to combine ingredients without disturbing the salt rim.
9. Garnish with the remaining grapefruit wedge perched on the glass rim.

Juxtaposing smoky depth with bright citrus notes, this cocktail delivers a sophisticated balance that lingers pleasantly on the palate. The effervescent texture carries the chili salt’s subtle warmth through each sip, while the grapefruit garnish adds both visual elegance and an aromatic burst. For an unexpected presentation, serve in smoke-filled glasses by briefly placing a lit cinnamon stick beneath an inverted glass before assembling.

Brandy Highball with Orange and Bitters

Whispering of autumn evenings and sophisticated gatherings, this Brandy Highball with Orange and Bitters elevates the classic cocktail with vibrant citrus notes and aromatic complexity. Crafted with premium ingredients and precise technique, it transforms simple components into an elegant libation perfect for both intimate moments and celebratory occasions. The interplay of rich brandy, bright orange, and bitters creates a symphony of flavors that dances across the palate.

Ingredients

– 2 oz brandy
– 4 oz chilled club soda
– 1/2 oz fresh orange juice
– 2 dashes aromatic bitters
– 1 orange wheel
– 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass with 1 cup of ice cubes, ensuring the glass is chilled to 40°F before serving for optimal temperature retention.
2. Pour 2 oz of premium brandy directly over the ice, allowing it to coat the cubes evenly for better flavor integration.
3. Add 1/2 oz of freshly squeezed orange juice, preferably from a navel orange at room temperature to maximize juice yield.
4. Carefully measure 2 dashes of aromatic bitters into the glass, aiming for the liquid surface to distribute the botanical notes throughout.
5. Slowly top with 4 oz of chilled club soda, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation and create a gentle effervescence.
6. Gently stir the mixture 8-10 times with a bar spoon, moving from the bottom upward to combine ingredients without losing carbonation.
7. Garnish with a fresh orange wheel placed on the rim of the glass, ensuring the citrus oils release their aroma when sipped.
8. Serve immediately while the cocktail maintains its crisp temperature and vibrant carbonation. Ultimately, this highball presents a beautifully balanced texture where the effervescent bubbles lift the rich brandy notes while the bitters provide a sophisticated bitter-sweet complexity. The orange wheel not only adds visual appeal but releases essential oils that enhance each sip, making it particularly delightful when served alongside dark chocolate or spiced nuts for a complementary tasting experience.

Pimm’s Highball with Lemonade and Fresh Berries

Masterfully blending British tradition with summer sophistication, this Pimm’s Highball offers a refreshing escape in a glass. Marrying the herbaceous complexity of Pimm’s No. 1 with the bright sweetness of lemonade and a vibrant medley of fresh berries creates an effervescent cocktail that feels both timeless and perfectly suited for warm-weather entertaining.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Pimm’s No. 1
• 4 oz lemonade
• 3 fresh strawberries
• 4 fresh raspberries
• 2 fresh mint sprigs
• 1/2 lemon
• ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes to ensure proper chilling.
2. Pour 2 oz of Pimm’s No. 1 directly over the ice.
3. Add 4 oz of lemonade to the glass, pouring slowly to maintain carbonation.
4. Slice 3 strawberries into thin rounds for optimal flavor release.
5. Gently muddle 4 raspberries at the bottom of a separate glass to extract their juices.
6. Strain the raspberry juice into the highball glass, discarding the solids.
7. Arrange the strawberry slices along the inside of the glass for visual appeal.
8. Cut 1/2 lemon into 3 wedges for consistent citrus infusion.
9. Squeeze 2 lemon wedges into the drink, then drop them into the glass.
10. Lightly clap 2 mint sprigs between your palms to release their aromatic oils.
11. Garnish the drink with the mint sprigs and remaining lemon wedge.
12. Stir the cocktail gently 5-6 times with a long bar spoon to combine ingredients without losing carbonation.

Delightfully effervescent with a complex botanical backbone, this cocktail presents a beautiful interplay between sweet berry notes and bright citrus accents. The muddled raspberries create a subtle jammy depth that complements Pimm’s distinctive herbal character, while the suspended strawberry slices add both visual elegance and bursts of fresh flavor. Serve it in tall glasses adorned with extra mint sprigs for garden party gatherings, or pair with lemon shortbread cookies to highlight its citrus undertones.

White Wine Highball with Elderflower Tonic

A sophisticated twist on the classic highball, this elegant cocktail combines crisp white wine with the delicate floral notes of elderflower tonic for a refreshingly modern aperitif. As the effervescent bubbles dance through the glass, they carry aromas of spring blossoms and citrus that promise a truly elevated drinking experience. This beautifully balanced concoction offers the perfect prelude to an evening gathering or a quiet moment of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 4 oz dry white wine
• 4 oz elderflower tonic water
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp simple syrup
• 2 lime wheels
• ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes to ensure proper chilling throughout service.
2. Pour 4 oz of dry white wine directly over the ice, allowing it to chill instantly against the frozen surface.
3. Add 4 oz of elderflower tonic water gently down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
4. Squeeze 1 oz of fresh lime juice directly into the mixture, being careful to strain out any seeds.
5. Drizzle 1 tsp of simple syrup around the perimeter of the glass for even distribution.
6. Using a long bar spoon, stir the mixture 12-15 times in a gentle circular motion to combine without losing effervescence.
7. Garnish by placing 2 lime wheels along the rim of the glass, ensuring they’re visible above the liquid line.
8. Serve immediately while the drink maintains its optimal chill and carbonation level.

Heavenly in its delicate balance, this cocktail presents a symphony of crisp acidity from the wine, subtle floral sweetness from the elderflower, and bright citrus notes that linger on the palate. The effervescent texture creates a light, refreshing mouthfeel that makes it perfect for sipping during golden hour on the patio. Consider serving it alongside briny oysters or delicate canapés to complement its sophisticated flavor profile.

Dark ‘n Stormy Highball with Gosling’s Rum

Fusing the rich heritage of Bermuda’s national drink with contemporary cocktail craftsmanship, this Dark ‘n Stormy Highball elevates the classic combination of Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer into a sophisticated libation. Perfectly balanced between spicy warmth and deep molasses notes, this cocktail offers both complexity and refreshment in equal measure. Its dramatic layered appearance makes it as visually striking as it is delicious, creating an instant conversation piece for any gathering.

Ingredients

– 2 oz Gosling’s Black Seal Rum
– 4 oz ginger beer
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 lime wedge
– Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with ice cubes to ensure proper chilling.
2. Pour 2 oz of Gosling’s Black Seal Rum directly over the ice.
3. Add 1/2 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice to the glass.
4. Slowly pour 4 oz of ginger beer down the side of the glass to maintain the layered effect.
5. Gently stir the mixture 3-4 times with a bar spoon to combine while preserving some separation.
6. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge placed on the rim of the glass.
7. Serve immediately while the cocktail remains cold and effervescent.

Effortlessly elegant, this cocktail presents with a striking dark-and-light contrast that hints at its complex flavor profile. The initial spicy ginger bite gives way to the deep, caramelized notes of the rum, while the bright lime acidity keeps the drink refreshingly balanced. For an extra touch of sophistication, serve alongside spicy appetizers or as the perfect pre-dinner cocktail to awaken the palate.

Amaretto Highball with Cola and Orange Twist

Glowing with amber elegance, this sophisticated cocktail transforms simple ingredients into a refined sipping experience. Crafted with Italian amaretto’s almond sweetness balanced by crisp cola and bright citrus, it offers effortless sophistication for any occasion. The gentle fizz and aromatic orange create a drink that feels both celebratory and comfortably familiar.

Ingredients

• 2 oz amaretto liqueur
• 4 oz cola
• 1 orange slice
• 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with 1 cup of ice cubes to ensure proper chilling.
2. Pour 2 oz of amaretto liqueur directly over the ice, allowing it to settle at the bottom.
3. Slowly add 4 oz of cola by pouring it down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
4. Cut a fresh orange slice approximately ¼-inch thick using a sharp knife for clean edges.
5. Hold the orange slice over the glass and gently squeeze to release the citrus oils onto the drink’s surface.
6. Rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass to impart aromatic essence before placing it in the drink.
7. Insert a long cocktail stirrer and gently mix from the bottom upward exactly 3 times to combine without losing carbonation.
8. Serve immediately while the cola maintains its lively effervescence and the ice remains crisp.

Remarkably smooth and layered, this cocktail presents velvety almond notes that dance with cola’s caramel undertones and the orange’s bright citrus finish. The effervescence creates a light, refreshing mouthfeel that makes it perfect for serving alongside dark chocolate desserts or as an elegant aperitif before dinner.

Fernet Highball with Ginger Ale and Lime

Elegant yet approachable, the Fernet Highball reimagines classic cocktail craftsmanship with contemporary flair. This sophisticated blend of bitter herbal liqueur, effervescent ginger ale, and bright citrus creates a perfectly balanced libation that transitions effortlessly from aperitif to evening companion. Each element harmonizes to deliver complexity without pretension, making it an ideal choice for both casual gatherings and refined occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Fernet-Branca
• 4 oz ginger ale
• 1/2 lime
• 1 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a highball glass completely with 1 cup of ice cubes, ensuring they reach the brim for optimal chilling.
2. Pour 2 oz of Fernet-Branca directly over the ice, allowing the bitter herbal notes to mellow against the cold surface.
3. Cut 1/2 lime into quarters and firmly squeeze two quarters into the glass, catching any seeds with your other hand.
4. Drop both squeezed lime quarters into the drink to continue releasing essential oils as it sits.
5. Slowly top with 4 oz of ginger ale, pouring down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
6. Gently stir 8-10 times with a bar spoon until the liquids are just combined but still layered.
7. Garnish with one remaining lime quarter perched on the rim for visual appeal and additional citrus aroma.

Layered with contrasting elements, this highball offers an intriguing dance between Fernet’s complex bitterness and ginger ale’s spicy sweetness, all brightened by the lime’s vibrant acidity. The effervescent texture lifts the herbal notes while the lingering citrus finish invites subsequent sips. For an elegant presentation, serve in frost-rimmed glasses or accompany with candied ginger as an edible garnish that echoes the drink’s flavor profile.

Summary

Just like that, you’ve got 18 refreshing highball recipes to beat the summer heat! These easy-to-make drinks are perfect for relaxing on warm evenings. We’d love to hear which ones become your favorites—drop a comment below and share your top picks on Pinterest so others can discover these delicious summer sips too. Cheers to making your summer nights extra special!

Laura Hauser

Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.