Sun Sep 29 22:08:30 UTC 2024: ## The Shochu Highball: A Simple Yet Sophisticated Drink Taking America by Storm
The humble highball, a simple combination of spirit, ice, and mixer, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the form of the shochu highball. This refreshing, low-alcohol cocktail is catching the attention of both bartenders and drinkers alike, appealing to current trends for umami flavors and moderate alcohol consumption.
While the highball itself has existed for over a century, the shochu version is a relatively new arrival on the American scene. Shochu, a Japanese spirit typically distilled from rice, barley, or sweet potatoes, boasts a range of flavors and offers a lower ABV than traditional whiskey. This makes the shochu highball a perfect choice for those seeking a light and refreshing drink without the heavy alcohol content.
“Shochu highballs are probably the most refreshing cocktail you have ever tasted,” says Juyong Kang, an award-winning bartender and director of beverage development at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. “It’s light, slightly sweet, slightly umami, and a tinge bitter.”
The simplicity of the shochu highball is part of its charm. The key lies in quality ingredients and a touch of finesse. Bartenders emphasize the importance of chilled glassware, perfectly cubed ice, and bubbly sparkling water.
“A light stir to mix the shochu and sparkling water helps combine everything without losing too much carbonation,” explains Tom Liu, head bartender at Thunderbolt, a Southern-ish cocktail bar in Los Angeles. “A garnish with a spritz of lemon oil from a lemon twist helps keep it bright and refreshing.”
While the shochu highball is gaining popularity across the country, New York City is experiencing a particular surge. Bars like Bar Goto, Katana Kitten, Sip and Guzzle, and Shinji’s are featuring shochu highballs on their menus, reflecting the growing interest in this unique and satisfying drink.
The rise of the shochu highball is a testament to its versatility and adaptability. Whether you prefer a classic, clean rice shochu or the subtle sweetness of a sweet potato variety, there’s a shochu highball out there for every palate. This simple yet sophisticated drink is poised to continue its ascendance, proving that sometimes the most refreshing and delicious drinks are the ones that are easiest to make.
First Piper 