The Hanks Highball Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a The Hanks Highball recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 20%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 5 minutes

If you’re looking to craft the perfect The Hanks Highball or just want a delightful cocktail to sip, you’re in for a treat. This drink is a refreshing journey through flavor and history, with a sparkle that captivates the palate. We’ll explore its origins, taste, and how to make it your own, so let’s get mixing! ⬇️

History

The Hanks Highball is a refreshing cocktail with a story as intriguing as its taste. This drink has quenched the thirst of many over the years, becoming a beloved classic in the cocktail world. Its legacy is a testament to the timelessness of simple, quality ingredients.

  • The Hanks Highball is said to be named after a revered bartender who first crafted it.
  • This cocktail became popular in the early 20th century, known for its refreshing qualities.
  • The drink’s fame spread across continents, becoming a staple in many upscale bars.

The taste of a The Hanks Highball?

Imagine a sip of cool, crisp refreshment with a hint of sweetness and citrus. The Hanks Highball is like a lively dance of flavors on your tongue, perfect for a sunny day.

I find joy in every glass of The Hanks Highball; its perfectly balanced zest is a delight on any occasion.

Interesting facts about The Hanks Highball

  • The Hanks Highball is often associated with leisurely afternoons and elegant gatherings.
  • Despite its simple composition, it’s a favorite among connoisseurs for its ability to highlight the quality of its ingredients.
  • It’s not uncommon to see variations of this drink at high-profile cocktail competitions, proving its versatility.

Ingredients

  • Whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Ginger ale: 4 oz (120ml)
  • Fresh lemon juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Ice cubes: As needed
  • Lemon wedge: For garnish

Highball glass is the best choice for serving The Hanks Highball. Its tall structure allows the bubbles from the ginger ale to rise, enhancing the sensory experience. Collins glass is a great alternative, offering a similar aesthetic and function.

Recipe. How to make The Hanks Highball

  1. Pour 2 oz (60ml) of whiskey into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.
  2. Add 0.5 oz (15ml) of fresh lemon juice.
  3. Top with 4 oz (120ml) of ginger ale and stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

While The Hanks Highball is a delightful treat, it’s also wise to consider its sugar content. You could use natural sweeteners or reduce the quantity for a healthier twist, but remember, moderation is key in savoring its bubbly charm.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods have the magic to elevate The Hanks Highball’s experience. Let’s delve into the delectable duos that harmonize with this cocktail’s vibrant essence.

Spicy Appetizers

The effervescence and citrus notes of The Hanks Highball cut through spicy flavors, offering a palate-cleansing effect that readies you for the next bite.

Grilled Meats

The smoky flavors of grilled meats find a refreshing counterpoint in the crisp, coolness of The Hanks Highball, making each sip a celebration of balance.

Fresh Salads

A light, leafy salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette complements the citrusy undertones of this highball, creating a refreshing dining experience.

I love the way The Hanks Highball’s bubbles tickle my nose, and the zesty flavor makes my taste buds dance!


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Bartender Advice

  • Always use fresh lemon juice for a bright, authentic flavor.
  • Choose a high-quality whiskey as it’s the cornerstone of the cocktail.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the drink colder longer.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic The Hanks Highball, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in The Hanks Highball

  • Ginger ale: Can be swapped for ginger beer for a spicier kick.
  • Whiskey: Experiment with different brands or ages to find your preferred note.
  • Sweetness: Adjust the amount of lemon juice or add a touch of simple syrup to play with the drink’s sweetness.

The Hanks Highball Variations

The Spiced Highball

  • Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick for a warm, spicy twist.
  • Recipe: Build as usual and stir with the cinnamon stick, leaving it in as garnish.

The Herbal Highball

  • Ingredients: Introduce a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
  • Recipe: Gently bruise the herbs before adding them to the mix.

The Fruity Highball

  • Ingredients: Muddle in seasonal berries for a sweet, tart flavor.
  • Recipe: Combine berries with whiskey before adding the remaining ingredients.

For a non-alcoholic version, simply skip the whiskey and enjoy a mix of ginger ale and fresh lemon juice, garnished with a lemon wedge for that signature The Hanks Highball flair.

Q&A

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Lime offers a slightly different tartness that pairs beautifully with the ginger ale.

What type of whiskey is best for The Hanks Highball?

A smoother, milder whiskey tends to complement the other flavors without overpowering them. However, feel free to experiment!

Is The Hanks Highball suitable for large gatherings?

Indeed, it’s a crowd-pleaser and can easily be made in batches. Just multiply the recipe by the number of guests.

Can I make The Hanks Highball ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can premix the whiskey and lemon juice and add ginger ale when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to garnish The Hanks Highball?

A lemon wedge is traditional, but you can get creative with other citrus or even a sprig of mint.

How can I make my The Hanks Highball less sweet?

Opt for a less sweet ginger ale or reduce the lemon juice slightly, depending on your taste preferences.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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