When it comes to enjoying a refreshing drink during the summer, highballs are a popular choice among whiskey lovers.
A highball is a simple cocktail that typically consists of a base spirit, such as whiskey, and a larger proportion of a carbonated mixer, such as soda water or ginger ale. The drink is usually served over ice in a tall glass and is garnished with a slice of citrus or a sprig of mint.
The combination of whiskey and a fizzy mixer creates a delightful and invigorating beverage that is perfect for hot weather. However, not all whiskeys are created equal when it comes to making highballs. To truly elevate your summer highball experience, you need to choose the right bottle. In this article, we will explore some of the top-notch whiskey bottles that are perfect for summer highballs.
The Perfect Whiskey for Highballs
When choosing a whiskey for highballs, it’s important to consider the flavor profile and characteristics of the spirit. Ideally, you want a whiskey that is not overly complex or overpowering, as it should complement the mixer rather than overpower it. Additionally, a whiskey with subtle fruity or floral notes can enhance the overall flavor of the highball. With these factors in mind, let’s explore some of the top-notch whiskey bottles that are perfect for summer highballs.
- Hibiki Japanese Harmony – Price: INR 18,300 approx.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a popular choice for highballs, especially in Japan. This delightful blend of 10 malt and grain whiskies from Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita offers a harmonious flavor profile. The amber-colored liquid delivers notes of orange peel, white chocolate, butter, caramelized dates, and wood on the palate. The aroma is filled with hints of honey, lychee, rosemary, sandalwood, and rose. Hibiki Japanese Harmony is a delicate and approachable whiskey that creates breezy highballs perfect for summer enjoyment.
- Bowmore 12 Year Old – Price: INR 8,000 approx.
For those who appreciate a touch of smokiness in their highballs, Bowmore 12 Year Old is an excellent choice. This single malt from Islay’s first distillery offers a balanced flavor profile with notes of lemon, dark chocolate, and sweet honey, all wrapped in a certain peaty smokiness. The finish is long and mellow, making it a popular option for those seeking a slightly smoky highball experience.
- Glenmorangie 10-Year-Old – Price: INR 8,000 approx.
With a history of over 175 years, Glenmorangie is known for producing innovative and smooth drams. The Glenmorangie 10-Year-Old, also known as “The Original,” is a classic choice for highballs. This pale gold whiskey features a delicate and fruity character, thanks to being aged for 10 years in ex-Bourbon American white oak casks. Every sip reveals notes of ripe peaches and vanilla, with a clean finish and lingering hints of orange. For an added twist, the brand recommends squeezing fresh orange into the highball, further enhancing the flavor.
- Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon – Price: INR 8,000 approx.
As a popular bourbon among connoisseurs, Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a reliable choice for highballs. This iconic bottle, dipped in signature red wax, houses a deep amber liquid that delivers a delightful combination of vanilla and fruit with every sip. Hints of caramel on the nose and a subtle, smooth finish make it an approachable and mellow-sweet option for highball enthusiasts. The official recipe even suggests adding orange peel to enhance the drink’s flavors.
- Suntory Toki – Price: INR 5,000 approx.
Introduced by Japan’s oldest distillery, Suntory Toki is a blend of whiskies from three renowned distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. This whiskey offers a mellow and floral quality with hints of soft orchard fruits, peppermint, thyme, and honey on the nose. Each sip reveals flavors of green apple, melon, pink grapefruit, toasted almonds, vanilla, and oak. The finish brings a touch of ginger and white pepper. Suntory Toki’s delicate profile makes it an excellent addition to highballs, especially when garnished with citrus. The distillery’s official recipe recommends using a chilled glass and adding lemon peel to fully experience the whiskey’s richness.
- Johnnie Walker Black Label – Price: INR 4,000 approx.
Johnnie Walker is a renowned name in the world of blended Scotch whiskies, and their Black Label is a go-to choice for many bartenders. This award-winning amber whiskey is matured for over 12 years, resulting in a complex and rich flavor profile. Sweet vanilla, smoke, creamy toffee, oak, and dark fruits dance on the palate, creating a memorable highball experience.
- DEWAR’S Japanese Smooth – Price: INR 3,000 approx.
DEWAR’S Japanese Smooth is a newcomer that combines the finesse of Scotch with the artistry of Japanese whiskey-making. Each bottle features double-aged Scotch whisky finished in 200-year-old Japanese Mizunara oak casks. The result is a smooth and subtly floral sip with notes of sandalwood, plum, toasted grain, and cinnamon. Citrus hints on the nose and a sweet, fruity finish add to its appeal. DEWAR’S Japanese Smooth is a top-notch whiskey choice for a Japanese-style highball, providing a unique and enjoyable drinking experience.
As the summer heat sets in, there’s no better time to elevate your highball game with these top-notch whiskey bottles. Whether you prefer a delicate and approachable blend like Hibiki Japanese Harmony, a smoky and balanced single malt like Bowmore 12 Year Old, or a classic and smooth bourbon like Maker’s Mark, there is a whiskey to suit every taste. Experiment with different combinations and garnishes to find your perfect summer highball. With the right whiskey and a little creativity, you can create refreshing and invigorating highballs that will impress even the most discerning whiskey lovers. So, gather your favorite bottle, mix up a highball, and toast to a summer filled with delightful sips and memorable moments. Cheers!
