At The Loch & Quay, we take pride in our commitment to celebrating the finest local ingredients and culinary traditions. One of the most versatile and underappreciated cocktail categories that allows us to showcase our regional flair is the humble highball. This simple yet refined pairing of spirits and fizz has a rich history and lends itself beautifully to innovative interpretations that highlight our unique coastal setting and the bounty of the surrounding countryside.
History and Origins of the Highball
The highball’s origins can be traced back to the late 1800s, when the combination of spirits and carbonated mixers first gained popularity. The term “highball” originally referred to the tall, slender glass used to serve these refreshing quaffs, though the name eventually became synonymous with the drink itself. Pioneering mixologists in the early 20th century began experimenting with different spirit and soda pairings, laying the foundation for the countless highball variations we enjoy today.
At its core, the highball is a study in balance and restraint. A well-crafted example should allow the natural flavors of the spirit to shine, complemented by the effervescence and subtle sweetness of the mixer. This elegant simplicity makes the highball an ideal canvas for showcasing local ingredients and regional specialties. Here at The Loch & Quay, we’ve embraced this tradition, crafting highball cocktails that pay homage to our stunning coastal setting and the artisanal producers in our backyard.
Highball Glassware and Preparation Techniques
The classic highball glass, with its tall, slender shape and straight sides, is the quintessential vessel for this style of cocktail. Its elongated profile not only enhances the carbonation and aroma but also allows for an elegant, visually striking presentation. When preparing a highball, the key is to strike the right balance between spirit and mixer, often using a measured pour to ensure consistent ratios.
Many of our bartenders also employ specific pouring techniques, such as gently pouring the spirit down the side of the glass to preserve the carbonation, or using a barspoon to control the speed of the mixer as it’s added. These small details can make a big difference in the final mouthfeel and flavor profile of the drink. We also encourage our staff to experiment with creative garnishes, from fragrant citrus peels to artisanal ice cubes, to enhance the sensory experience.
Local Variations and Ingredients
One of the greatest joys of the highball is its ability to showcase the unique flavors of a given region. Here at The Loch & Quay, we’ve developed a range of signature highball recipes that pay homage to our coastal surroundings and the exceptional producers in our local community.
For example, our Elderflower Highball pairs our house-infused elderflower gin with a splash of locally-sourced tonic water, finished with a delicate lemon twist. The floral, subtly sweet notes of the elderflower complement the bracing minerality of the tonic, creating a refreshing and aromatic sip that evokes the lush, verdant landscapes that surround us.
Another popular offering is the Blackberry Bramble Highball, featuring our small-batch blackberry liqueur and crisp ginger beer, garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme. The combination of tart, juicy blackberries and the subtle heat of ginger perfectly captures the wild, untamed spirit of our rugged terrain.
The Art of Mixology
The highball’s deceptive simplicity belies the skill and precision required to craft a truly exceptional example. As the craft cocktail movement has gained momentum in recent years, bartenders have embraced the highball as a canvas for their creative expression, exploring novel ingredient pairings and innovative preparation methods.
At The Loch & Quay, our talented team of mixologists is constantly pushing the boundaries of what a highball can be. They meticulously balance flavors, experiment with unique modifiers, and utilize seasonal, locally-sourced produce to create cocktails that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
One of our bartenders, Isla, has developed a signature Cornish Cider Highball that features our house-made apple and spice shrub, locally-produced cider, and a touch of honey-rosemary simple syrup. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, tart, and herbaceous notes that perfectly complement the rugged character of our surroundings.
Local Spirits and Liqueurs
Of course, no discussion of highballs would be complete without highlighting the exceptional spirits and liqueurs produced right here in our region. The Loch & Quay is proud to feature a curated selection of small-batch distilleries and artisanal producers that are redefining the standards of quality and creativity.
One of our most popular local offerings is the Elderflower Gin from Redwood Distillery, located just a few miles down the coast. Their unique botanical blend and meticulous distillation process result in a spirit that is both delicate and complex, with pronounced floral notes that pair beautifully with our house-made tonic.
We also carry a range of specialty liqueurs from the award-winning Clover Meadows Distillery, including their renowned Blackberry Liqueur and Rhubarb Vermouth. These unique modifiers have become essential components in many of our highball creations, lending depth, complexity, and a true sense of place.
Celebrating Local Culture
At The Loch & Quay, we believe that the highball is not just a cocktail – it’s a celebration of local culture, tradition, and community. That’s why we’ve embraced this versatile format as a way to showcase the rich bounty of our region and the talented artisans who call it home.
Throughout the year, we host a variety of highball-themed events and festivals that bring our guests closer to the local producers and purveyors who inspire our cocktail program. From seasonal harvest celebrations that feature the finest local produce to distillery takeovers that delve into the stories behind our favorite spirits, these immersive experiences allow our patrons to forge deep connections with the flavors and people that make our region so special.
We also work closely with our local business partners to curate unique highball pairings that celebrate the synergy between food and drink. Whether it’s a seafood-and-soda pairing that highlights the freshness of our coastal catch or a cheese-and-shrub flight that showcases the terroir of our land, these culinary collaborations provide a holistic sensory experience that truly captures the essence of our locale.
At the heart of it all is a deep commitment to supporting the local economy and championing the artisans whose passion and innovation inspire us every day. By elevating the highball as a vessel for this celebration, we hope to share the rich tapestry of our region with discerning guests from near and far, fostering a greater appreciation for the art of craft cocktails and the power of community.
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