Can I use sweet vermouth instead of dry?

Absolutely! Both dry and sweet vermouths work well in a highball. Sweet vermouth gives a richer, spicier flavor, while dry vermouth offers a crisp and herbal profile. Try both to see which you prefer.

What’s the best vermouth for a Vermouth Highball?

The best vermouth is the one you enjoy sipping on its own. Premium brands like Dolin, Carpano, or Noilly Prat offer excellent options. Feel free to experiment with different styles for subtle flavor changes.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the drink?

Definitely! A dash of bitters, a splash of tonic, or different citrus garnishes can all add interesting twists. Some even add a sprig of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.

Is this cocktail suitable for large batches?

Yes, the Vermouth Highball is ideal for batching. Simply multiply the vermouth and soda amounts, mix in a pitcher with ice, and serve in individual glasses with fresh garnish.

Vermouth Highball

Name: Vermouth Highball
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz Dry or sweet vermouth; 4 oz Club soda; 1 Lemon wheel or orange twist

The Vermouth Highball is a refreshing, low-ABV cocktail that celebrates the botanical complexities of vermouth with a sparkling effervescence. Perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or as a light aperitif, this drink is a modern twist on classic spritz-style cocktails, proving that sophistication doesn’t always come with a hefty pour of spirits.

3 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Dry or sweet vermouth
60 ml (2 oz)
Choose your favorite vermouth style; both work beautifully.
Club soda
120 ml (4 oz)
Chilled, for maximum effervescence.
Lemon wheel or orange twist
1
For garnish; citrus enhances the aromatics.

Tools Needed

Highball glass
Jigger
Bar spoon
Citrus peeler (for garnish)
Ice scoop

Instructions

Fill a highball glass generously with ice cubes.
Measure and pour 2 oz of your chosen vermouth over the ice.
Top with 4 oz of chilled club soda.
Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to combine, preserving the bubbles.
Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel or an orange twist on the rim.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Low alcohol content makes it perfect for daytime sipping.
Showcases the complex botanical notes of quality vermouth.
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
Endlessly customizable with different vermouths and garnishes.
Beautifully refreshing and light—ideal for summer.

History & Origin

The Vermouth Highball draws inspiration from the European tradition of enjoying vermouth over ice, often with a splash of soda and a citrus twist. As vermouth’s popularity resurged among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts in the 21st century, the highball format—originally popularized in Japan with whisky and soda—was adopted to highlight vermouth’s nuanced flavors. Today, it’s a staple for those seeking a low-alcohol, flavorful, and supremely refreshing cocktail.

Garnish

A lemon wheel or orange twist not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the drink’s aroma with fresh citrus oils, complementing the vermouth’s botanicals.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 70-90 calories per serving, depending on the type of vermouth used. Very low in sugar (if using dry vermouth and unsweetened soda) and low in alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions

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