The popularity of highballs continues in the alcoholic beverage market. Highball is a type of cocktail made by mixing distilled spirits such as whiskey or brandy with soda water or carbonated drinks.
Last year, Lotte Members conducted a survey on alcohol consumption trends through the research platform Lime, and highball was the most chosen by consumers. In a survey involving 2,000 adults nationwide, 25.6% chose highball.
Analysis of transaction data by Lotte Members also showed an increase in sales of the main ingredient of highballs, distilled spirits. In 2023, sales of distilled spirits increased by 16.1% compared to 2022. The alcoholic beverage industry believes that the popularity of highballs will not be a fleeting trend but rather continue steadily.
A representative from Pernod Ricard Korea noted on the 7th, "Initially, it started as a simple combination of whiskey and carbonated drinks, but now it is evolving into premium cocktails that emphasize characteristics such as ingredients and aromas," adding that "various spirits, including Scotch whiskey, bourbon, Irish whiskey, and gin, are being utilized."
According to Pernod Ricard Korea, recently the search volume for the 'Jameson Ginger Highball' recipe, which combines 30mL of Jameson whiskey, 90mL of ginger ale, a lime wedge, and ice, has increased. It starts with a fresh floral aroma and a moderately roasted woodiness, mixing sweet notes of nuts, vanilla, and sherry with unique spices.
The search volume for the 'Monkey47 Pink Forest Highball' recipe has also increased. This highball blends 45mL of Monkey47 gin, 120mL of tonic water, grapefruit peel, and ice. It leaves a dry and sophisticated finish with the aroma of the Black Forest, wild berries, flowers, herbs, and a refreshing citrus touch.
Reports indicate that Jefferson's 'JMT Highball' and 'Ballantine's 10-Year Highball' are also very popular. Jefferson's JMT Highball consists of 45mL of Jefferson bourbon, 150mL of tonic water, one spoon of tangerine syrup (or other fruit syrup), and ice. It starts with a deep aroma of brown sugar and the freshness of lemon, harmonizing the flavors of vanilla, peach, and toffee.
To prepare Ballantine's 10-Year Highball, in a glass filled with ice, mix Ballantine's 10-Year whiskey and basic tonic water in a 1:3 ratio, stirring well to complete. Alternatively, you can use 90mL of Earl Grey tonic water mixed with milk and sugar to taste, then add 30mL of Ballantine's whiskey.