The Ultimate 2-Ingredient Bourbon Highball with Ginger Beer: Your Perfect Fall Cocktail
When the crisp air of autumn arrives and leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like a warming, yet refreshing, cocktail to embrace the season. Enter the Bourbon Highball with Ginger Beer – an effortlessly elegant drink that truly shines with its simplicity. Forget complicated recipes and extensive bar tools; this sophisticated sipper requires just two core ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned mixologists and eager beginners. It’s a golden-hued delight that beautifully balances the smooth, rich notes of your favorite bourbon with the vibrant, spicy effervescence of chilled ginger beer. Quick to assemble and stunning to behold, this bourbon highball is versatile enough for a festive fall gathering, a relaxed evening with friends, or simply a tranquil moment of self-indulgence curled up on the sofa.
The beauty of the bourbon highball lies in its unpretentious nature. It doesn’t demand fancy techniques or a shaker; instead, it celebrates the harmony of quality ingredients coming together with minimal fuss. Its warm amber glow perfectly complements the aesthetic of fall, from pumpkin patches to crackling fireplaces. This isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience, a liquid embodiment of autumn’s cozy charm and an invitation to slow down and savor the simple pleasures.
You might be wondering how a cocktail so incredibly simple can deliver such a rich, complex, and utterly satisfying flavor. The secret lies in the quality of your ingredients and the perfect balance they strike. Let me walk you through the magic!
Embrace Simplicity: The Built Cocktail Advantage
One of the many reasons to adore the Bourbon Highball is that it’s a true built drink. What does “built” mean in cocktail terms? It means there’s absolutely no need for a cocktail shaker, no stirring glass, and no complicated techniques or extra fuss. You assemble the drink directly in the serving glass, making it incredibly fast and convenient to prepare. This approach not only saves time and reduces cleanup but also ensures that the delicate effervescence of the ginger beer is perfectly preserved.
Crafting your Bourbon Highball is a straightforward affair: simply fill a tall, elegant highball glass to the brim with plenty of cubed ice. This isn’t just for chilling; abundant ice helps to maintain the drink’s temperature and prevents rapid dilution. Next, pour in your chosen bourbon, allowing its smooth character to chill gently. Then, slowly top it off with your favorite chilled ginger beer – for an authentic and robust ginger kick, Fever-Tree is a highly recommended choice, though any premium brand will do wonders. Finally, complete this golden concoction with a fresh slice of lemon. This citrusy touch isn’t just for show; it adds a bright, refreshing aroma and flavor that perfectly cuts through the richness of the bourbon and the spice of the ginger. When I styled this drink, I chose to present it amidst fall-colored leaves, because its warm amber glow so beautifully captures the essence of autumn, making it a truly seasonal delight.
Why Built Drinks Are Perfect for Entertaining
The built cocktail method is a game-changer, especially when you’re hosting. Instead of being stuck behind the bar, shaking and straining, you can quickly prepare drinks for your guests and rejoin the conversation. It makes entertaining feel relaxed and effortless, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company rather than the labor. Plus, the visual appeal of a “built” drink is often part of its charm – the clear layers, the fizz, and the vibrant garnish all contribute to a beautiful presentation right from the start.
Craving more delightful drinks that are quick to prepare, incredibly delicious, and perfect for those cozy nights in? You’re in luck! Dive into my extensive cocktail collection for a treasure trove of inspiring recipes. And for those moments when a cocktail just isn’t complete without a treat, consider pairing this Bourbon Highball with one of my easy and satisfying fall-themed snacks. Imagine the rich, spicy notes of your highball alongside the sweet, peanut buttery goodness of Reese’s Pieces Cookies, or the comforting, earthy flavors of a Chestnut Bundt Cake. These pairings create an ultimate fall-flavored moment that’s truly unforgettable.
The Art of Simple Pleasures
In a world that often celebrates complexity, there’s profound beauty in simplicity. The Bourbon Highball embodies this philosophy perfectly. It’s a reminder that extraordinary experiences can arise from humble beginnings, and that the finest moments are often found in the quiet enjoyment of well-crafted essentials. So, I invite you to embrace this philosophy: go ahead, curl up with a good book or some gentle music, sip something golden that warms you from within, and celebrate the profound joy that comes from appreciating simple, yet exquisite, things. I’m genuinely delighted you’re here to share in this journey of flavor and comfort.
🎥 Watch How Easy It Is!
Sometimes, seeing is believing, especially when it comes to crafting a cocktail this simple and elegant. To truly grasp the effortless process of making your own perfect Bourbon Highball, I’ve put together a quick video demonstration. Watch as the smooth bourbon meets the sparkling ginger beer, transforming into a beautiful, golden drink right before your eyes. This visual guide ensures you’ll master the technique in no time, building your confidence to create this exquisite drink for yourself and your guests.
🥘 Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Bourbon Highball
Creating an exceptional Bourbon Highball is surprisingly simple, thanks to its minimalist ingredient list. However, the quality and type of each component play a crucial role in the final taste profile. Let’s explore what makes each element indispensable:
- Bourbon Whiskey: The Soul of the Drink
- Choosing the right bourbon is paramount, yet you don’t need to break the bank. Look for a bourbon that offers a smooth, mellow character with notes of vanilla, caramel, or subtle spice. Since the ginger beer brings a bold, zesty kick, a bourbon that isn’t overly complex or expensive will shine beautifully without getting lost. A mid-range option, often described as having a slightly sweet finish, is usually perfect. If you’re new to the world of bourbon cocktails, this highball serves as an excellent, approachable introduction, allowing you to appreciate the spirit’s nuances in a refreshing format. Consider brands known for their balanced flavor profiles, such as Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Woodford Reserve, to achieve that ideal harmony.
- Ginger Beer: The Sparkling Counterpart
- This is where the magic truly happens! Ginger beer is the star that gives this cocktail its lively sparkle and unmistakable spicy, robust flavor. It’s crucial to differentiate it from ginger ale; ginger beer is significantly spicier and generally less sweet, providing that essential “kick” that defines a great highball. For an unparalleled, natural ginger flavor and perfectly balanced sweetness, I highly recommend using Fever-Tree Ginger Beer. Other high-quality brands like Goslings, Q Mixers, or Reed’s also perform exceptionally well. Always ensure you’re grabbing a non-alcoholic ginger beer, unless a particularly potent, extra-boozy twist is what you’re after! The carbonation also plays a vital role in carrying the aromatics of the bourbon and lemon to your palate.
- Cubed Ice: The Unsung Hero of Chill
- Never underestimate the power of good ice! Lots of large, solid cubed ice is absolutely essential for a proper Bourbon Highball. It serves multiple purposes: rapidly chilling your drink to perfection, maintaining that crisp temperature for longer, and, crucially, minimizing dilution. Small or crushed ice melts much faster, watering down your perfectly balanced cocktail before you’ve had a chance to fully enjoy it. Opt for large, dense cubes or even spherical ice balls if you have them, to ensure a slow, controlled melt that keeps your drink pristine from the first sip to the last.
- Lemon Slice (Garnish): The Bright Finish
- A simple slice of fresh lemon is more than just a pretty face; it’s a vital component that elevates the entire drinking experience. The bright citrus aroma and subtle tartness from the lemon zest and juice add a refreshing counterpoint to the rich bourbon and spicy ginger beer. It provides a visual pop of sunshine and an olfactory invitation to sip. While lemon is classic, don’t hesitate to experiment with an orange slice – its sweeter, slightly more floral notes also beautifully complement the bourbon, offering a slightly different, yet equally delightful, twist.
For precise measurements and detailed quantities, be sure to consult the complete recipe card provided below.
🔪 Crafting Your Bourbon Highball: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly balanced and refreshingly delicious Bourbon Highball every time. The key is to build the drink directly in the glass, ensuring maximum flavor and fizz.
Step 1: Fill with Ice
Begin by selecting a tall highball glass. Generously fill it to the very top with large cubed ice. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a crucial step! Ample ice ensures your drink chills quickly and stays refreshingly cold throughout, slowing down dilution and preserving the crisp flavors of your highball. The colder the drink, the better the experience.
Step 2: Add Bourbon
Once your glass is perfectly chilled with ice, carefully pour your preferred bourbon directly over the cubes. There’s no need for a cocktail shaker or any special mixing tools here – the beauty of a highball is its straightforward assembly. The bourbon will immediately begin to chill, preparing it for the addition of the ginger beer and ensuring a smooth integration of flavors.
Step 3: Top with Ginger Beer
Slowly and gently pour well-chilled ginger beer into the glass, filling it almost to the top. Pouring slowly helps to preserve the ginger beer’s effervescence, which is crucial for the drink’s signature sparkle and lively taste. As it mingles with the bourbon and ice, you’ll observe a beautiful fizz, indicating a perfectly built highball.
Step 4: Add Garnish
Complete your beautiful Bourbon Highball by adding a fresh slice of lemon as a garnish. This citrus touch is not merely decorative; it imparts a bright, refreshing aroma and a subtle hint of zest that enhances the overall flavor profile of the drink. A gentle squeeze of the lemon before placing it in the glass can release even more of its delightful essence, making each sip even more inviting.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Bourbon Highball is now complete and ready to be savored! Give it a quick, gentle stir if desired, but be careful not to over-stir and lose the precious fizz. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of smooth bourbon, spicy ginger beer, and refreshing lemon. This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, allowing its vibrant flavors to truly sing.
🥳 Party Perfect: Batch Bourbon Highball (Serves 6)
Planning a gathering? The Bourbon Highball is not only simple for individual servings but also incredibly easy to prepare in a larger batch. This ensures you spend less time mixing and more time enjoying your guests, without compromising on flavor or presentation. Here’s how to scale up this fantastic fall cocktail:
Batch Ingredients
- 9 oz (270 ml) Bourbon Whiskey: Maintain the same quality bourbon you’d use for single servings to ensure a consistent, delicious taste across all drinks.
- 18 oz (540 ml) Chilled Ginger Beer: Keep your ginger beer well-chilled to maximize fizz and freshness when preparing the batch.
- 6 Lemon Slices: Pre-slice your lemons for quick and elegant garnishing.
- Plenty of Cubed Ice: You’ll need ice for both the pitcher and individual serving glasses.
Batch Instructions
- **Prepare the Pitcher:** Start by filling a large, attractive pitcher halfway with fresh, cubed ice. This will keep the mixture cool as you prepare it.
- **Add Bourbon:** Pour the measured bourbon directly into the pitcher over the ice.
- **Gently Mix with Ginger Beer:** Slowly add the chilled ginger beer to the pitcher. Stir very gently, just enough to combine the ingredients without losing too much of the precious carbonation. The goal is to integrate the flavors while preserving that lively sparkle.
- **Serve Individually:** Before serving, fill six separate highball glasses to the brim with fresh, cubed ice. This ensures each guest gets a perfectly cold drink with minimal dilution.
- **Garnish Immediately:** Pour the batch mixture into the prepared glasses. Garnish each glass with a fresh lemon slice just before handing them out. This keeps the garnish looking vibrant and releases its aromatic oils right when the drink is about to be enjoyed.
🍓 Substitutions & Creative Variations for Your Bourbon Highball
While the classic Bourbon Highball with Ginger Beer is a perfect cocktail in its own right, its simplicity also makes it incredibly adaptable. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious substitutions and variations to tailor the drink to your taste or what you have on hand:
- Ginger Ale for a Milder Profile:
- If you don’t have ginger beer, or simply prefer a less intense, sweeter, and milder ginger flavor, ginger ale is an excellent substitute. While it won’t deliver the same fiery kick as ginger beer, it still creates a wonderfully refreshing drink. To compensate for the milder ginger, consider adding an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice or even a tiny splash of lime juice to brighten the flavors and add a zesty edge. This variation is particularly good for those who are new to ginger-based cocktails.
- Elevate the Spice Factor:
- For those who crave an extra layer of warmth and complexity, there are several ways to make your Bourbon Highball spicier. A classic addition is a dash or two of Angostura bitters, which introduces an aromatic blend of herbs and spices that beautifully complements bourbon. Alternatively, you can muddle a thin slice of fresh ginger in the bottom of your glass before adding ice and bourbon, releasing its pungent, fresh spice directly into the drink. For an even more adventurous twist, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper (be very conservative!) or a ginger liqueur can provide that extra zing.
- Fancy Garnishes for Seasonal Flair:
- Beyond the simple lemon slice, garnishes offer an easy way to elevate your highball and enhance its seasonal appeal. For a distinctly autumnal feel, try a cinnamon stick stirrer – its warm, sweet aroma will infuse subtly into the drink. A sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme can add an earthy, herbaceous note, making the cocktail feel more sophisticated. Dehydrated orange slices, star anise, or even a few cranberries can also provide beautiful visual interest and complementary flavors, transforming your simple highball into a truly festive and inviting concoction perfect for holiday entertaining or a cozy evening.
- Exploring Different Spirits:
- While this recipe focuses on bourbon, the highball concept is wonderfully versatile. You can easily swap bourbon for other spirits to create entirely new, yet equally delicious, drinks. Consider a “Dark & Stormy” by using dark rum, or a “Moscow Mule” with vodka and lime. Even a good quality Irish whiskey works beautifully with ginger beer, offering a slightly lighter, smoother profile. Each spirit brings its unique character, allowing you to discover your perfect highball variation.
🍽 Essential Equipment for Your Highball
One of the beauties of this simple Bourbon Highball is that it requires minimal specialized equipment. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen, making it incredibly accessible for anyone to whip up a fantastic drink:
- Highball Serving Glass: A tall, slender glass is ideal for highballs. Its shape helps to preserve carbonation and allows for a generous amount of ice, keeping your drink colder for longer.
- Measuring Tools / Jigger: While this recipe is simple, precise measurements for bourbon are key to a balanced cocktail. A jigger or a small measuring spoon ensures you get the perfect ratio every time.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for cleanly slicing your lemon or orange garnish, ensuring a beautiful and aromatic presentation.
- Quality Ice Tray (Optional but Recommended): For those perfect large cubes that melt slowly and keep your drink pure.
🙋🏻 Frequently Asked Questions About the Bourbon Highball
Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying your Bourbon Highball. We’ve got you covered!
The distinction between ginger beer and ginger ale is crucial for the Bourbon Highball. Ginger beer is brewed and fermented (though usually non-alcoholic), resulting in a much spicier, more pungent, and less sweet flavor profile, with a more robust ginger kick. This intensity is what perfectly stands up to and complements the rich notes of bourbon. Ginger ale, on the other hand, is simply carbonated water flavored with ginger, making it considerably milder and sweeter. While ginger ale can be used as a substitute for a lighter, sweeter drink, it won’t provide the same bold, zesty “zing” that defines a classic Bourbon Highball with ginger beer. For an authentic and dynamic cocktail, ginger beer is definitely the preferred choice.
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for a delightful non-alcoholic version. To make it a “mocktail,” simply swap the bourbon for a splash of apple juice, a sophisticated non-alcoholic whiskey alternative (brands like Kentucky 74 offer excellent options), or even a touch of cold black tea for depth. Then, proceed with topping it off with ginger beer and garnishing with a lemon slice, just like the original. You’ll still get that sparkling, warming, and refreshing fall-perfect drink, making it inclusive for all your guests.
For a highball, you don’t necessarily need your most expensive, top-shelf bourbon. A good quality, mid-range bourbon with a smooth, approachable profile and notes of vanilla, caramel, or subtle spice will work perfectly. The robust flavor of ginger beer can sometimes overshadow very subtle nuances of complex bourbons, so a solid, reliable bourbon that you enjoy drinking on its own is ideal. Save your pricier bottles for sipping neat or in cocktails where its full complexity can be appreciated without other strong flavors competing. Brands like Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, or even Jim Beam Black are excellent choices for a Bourbon Highball.
Yes, absolutely! To ensure your Bourbon Highball is perfectly fizzy and flavorful:
- Use plenty of ice: Fill your glass to the brim. More ice means less dilution and a colder drink.
- Use chilled ingredients: Ensure both your bourbon and ginger beer are well-chilled before mixing. This further slows down ice melt.
- Pour ginger beer gently: Pour slowly down the side of the glass over the ice and bourbon. This minimizes agitation and helps to retain as much carbonation as possible.
- Avoid over-stirring: A very gentle, brief stir (if at all) is sufficient to combine the flavors without losing the fizz. Highballs are meant to be built, not vigorously mixed.
- Fresh garnish: Always use a fresh lemon slice; the oils in the zest enhance the aroma and taste significantly.
Following these tips will ensure a vibrant, effervescent, and perfectly balanced cocktail every time.
More Delightful Recipes for You to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed the simplicity and deliciousness of this Bourbon Highball, you’ll surely love exploring other fantastic recipes from my collection. Whether you’re in the mood for more cocktails, autumnal desserts, or comforting meals, there’s something here to spark your culinary interest:
- Dark and Stormy Cocktail: Another classic ginger beer cocktail, featuring dark rum.
- Apple Cider Moscow Mule: A seasonal twist on the popular Moscow Mule, perfect for fall.
- Kraken Rum and Ginger Beer: If you love the spice of ginger beer, try it with spiced rum!
- Bourbon Old Fashioned: A timeless bourbon classic for those who appreciate deep, spirit-forward flavors.
- Fall in Love with these Soft Pumpkin Cookies: The perfect sweet treat to complement your autumn cocktails.
- Easy Apple Crisp Recipe without Oatmeal: A comforting fall dessert that’s simple to make.
- Rum Muffins: A delightful baked good with a hint of warmth.
- Old-fashioned Maraschino Milk Cocktail: A unique and intriguing cocktail for adventurous palates.
- Austrian Kaiserschmarrn {torn pancakes}: Indulge in a classic Austrian dessert, perfect for a cozy brunch or treat.
I genuinely love hearing from you and seeing your culinary creations! If you decide to make this delightful Bourbon Highball recipe, please take a moment to let me know how much you enjoyed it by giving it a ★★★★★ star rating and leaving a comment below. Your feedback means the world and helps others discover this fantastic cocktail. Don’t forget to stay connected! You can also sign up for our exclusive Newsletter to receive weekly doses of delicious homemade recipes directly in your inbox. For more inspiration and to share your own beautiful creations, follow me on Pinterest or Instagram. Be sure to tag me @combinegoodflavors and use the hashtag #combinegoodflavors, so I can admire your work and celebrate with you!
📖 The Full Bourbon Highball Recipe Card
Bourbon Highball Recipe
Nora
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Pin Recipe
Equipment
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Serving Glass
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Measuring tools / Jigger
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Sharp knife & cutting board
Ingredients
- Cubed Ice for the serving glass
- 1 oz Bourbon Whiskey
- Ginger beer to top off. One highball glass holds 240 (1 cup) to 350 ml (1 ½ cups)
- Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions
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Fill a tall glass with lots of Cubed Ice.Cubed Ice
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Pour in 1 oz Bourbon Whiskey.1 oz Bourbon Whiskey
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Top with chilled Ginger beer.Ginger beer
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Garnish with a Lemon slice.Lemon slice
Notes
🎉 Hosting a party?
To serve six, use:
9 oz (270 ml) bourbon
18 oz (540 ml) ginger beer
6 lemon slices for garnish
Combine the bourbon and ginger beer in a large pitcher filled with ice. Stir gently and pour into six glasses with fresh ice. Garnish just before serving for the prettiest presentation.
Nutrition values are estimates only, using online calculators. Please verify using your own data.
⛑️ Important Food Safety Guidelines
While this Bourbon Highball recipe is incredibly simple and doesn’t involve extensive cooking, it’s always important to keep general food safety principles in mind, especially when preparing ingredients or serving snacks alongside your cocktails. These guidelines ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:
- Maintain Proper Temperatures: If you are serving any food alongside your cocktail, ensure it’s kept at safe temperatures. Cook hot food to a minimum internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) and keep cold food chilled.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination: Always use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw ingredients (like meats, if preparing appetizers) and cooked foods or garnishes to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and warm water before and after handling any food, especially raw ingredients.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Do not leave perishable food items sitting out at room temperature for extended periods (typically no more than two hours).
- Stay Attentive When Cooking: If your evening involves cooking, never leave food unattended on the stove or in the oven to prevent accidents.
- Choose Appropriate Cooking Oils: If frying or high-heat cooking, use oils with a high smoke point to avoid breaking down and forming harmful compounds.
- Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Always use good ventilation, especially when operating a gas stove, to ensure air quality.
For more comprehensive information and detailed guidelines on safe food handling practices, please refer to the official resources provided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).