Cognac Highball Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Cognac
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 2 minutes

Imagine you’re at a party, and you want a drink that’s both fancy and refreshing. That’s where the Cognac Highball comes in! It’s a cocktail with bubbly soda and rich cognac, and we’ll explore its taste, how to make it, and even what foods go well with it. Ready to make the perfect Cognac Highball? Let’s dive right in! ⬇️

History

The Cognac Highball has its roots in the classic highball drinks, known for their simple yet elegant mix of spirit and carbonated water. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of Cognac as a versatile spirit for mixing.

• The name ‘Highball’ likely comes from the old railroad signal for a fast train—just like this drink, it’s all about going full speed ahead with flavor.
• Originally, highballs were enjoyed as a morning beverage, but the Cognac Highball has evolved into an all-day delight.
• Highballs were the drink of choice during the golden age of American cocktail culture in the late 19th century.

The taste of a Cognac Highball?

A Cognac Highball is like a harmony of flavors. It’s smooth and rich from the cognac, but also fizzy and refreshing because of the soda water.

I love a Cognac Highball for its classy twist on a simple drink. Its balance of sophistication and refreshment is just perfect.

Interesting facts about Cognac Highball

• Cognac Highball is often associated with elegance and was a favorite among the upper classes in the 20th century.
• The drink’s popularity has surged in recent years as part of the craft cocktail renaissance.
• Despite its simplicity, mastering the Cognac Highball requires attention to the quality of its few ingredients.

Ingredients

• Cognac: 2 oz (60ml)
• Soda Water: 4 oz (120ml)
• Ice Cubes: to fill
• Lemon Peel: for garnish

Highball glass is the best choice for serving a Cognac Highball. Its tall shape allows the bubbles to rise, enhancing the sensory experience. Collins glass could also work well as an alternative.

Recipe. How to make Cognac Highball

1. Fill a Highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz (60ml) of cognac over the ice.
3. Top with about 4 oz (120ml) of soda water.
4. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

Cognac Highball is not just about taste; it’s also about balance. It’s low in sugar, but you can make it even healthier by choosing a cognac with no added sugars and using natural soda water.

Food Pairings

Some foods are just meant to be with certain drinks. With the Cognac Highball, the right food pairing can turn a good drink into a great experience.

Charcuterie

The smoky flavors of cured meats bring out the aged notes in Cognac, making them a dynamic duo.

Dark Chocolate

The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the smooth sweetness of Cognac, creating a rich taste sensation.

Roasted Nuts

The earthy crunch of roasted nuts matches the depth of the Cognac Highball, enhancing its nutty undertones.

I like the Cognac Highball’s fizzy kick—it makes me feel like I’m celebrating, even on a regular day.

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Bartender Advice

• Always use fresh ice to keep your Highball crisp and chilled.
• For a twist, add a splash of bitters to introduce a complex flavor layer.
• Mix with a gentle stir to maintain the soda’s effervescence.

Now that you’ve got the hang of the classic Cognac Highball, let’s explore how you can tweak it and learn about some delightful variations.

What you could change in Cognac Highball

• Soda Water: Try a flavored sparkling water for a subtle twist.
• Cognac: Experiment with different ages and brands for a new profile.
• Garnish: Swap the lemon peel for an orange or grapefruit twist.

Cognac Highball Variations

Spiced Cognac Highball

• Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick and a dash of clove syrup to the classic recipe.
• Recipe: Build in the glass over ice and stir gently to combine the spices and cognac.

Cognac Highball with a Twist

• Ingredients: Include a splash of elderflower liqueur for a floral note.
• Recipe: Mix the ingredients directly in the serving glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Berry Cognac Highball

• Ingredients: Muddle fresh berries at the bottom before adding ice and cognac.
• Recipe: Pour the soda water over the berry-infused cognac and enjoy the fruity infusion.

For a non-alcoholic version, mimic the flavors with a mix of herbal teas and sparkling water, garnished with lemon.

Q&A

Can I use flavored cognac for a Highball?

Absolutely! Flavored cognacs can add an unexpected twist to your Highball, just keep the flavors balanced.

Is the Cognac Highball a strong drink?

It can be potent, but the soda water dilutes the cognac, making it a lighter option.

How can I make my Cognac Highball sweeter?

Try a splash of simple syrup or a flavored soda if you prefer a sweeter taste.

What’s the best time to enjoy a Cognac Highball?

Anytime is good, but it’s especially refreshing on a warm afternoon or as an elegant evening starter.

Can I use bourbon instead of cognac?

Sure, bourbon will give you a different drink with a more robust, smoky flavor profile.

How do I choose the right cognac for my Highball?

Opt for a VS or VSOP cognac for the best mix of quality and affordability.