Whisky Finder
Best Japanese Whisky for Highballs Quiz
The highball is Japan's national drink. Walk into any izakaya and you'll hear "toriaezu highball" (highball for starters) at every table. It's not a compromise or a way to stretch cheap whisky. It's a legitimate, respected way to enjoy the spirit.
But not every whisky makes a great highball. You want something with enough flavor to cut through the soda, but not so heavy that it fights the fizz. This quiz finds your ideal highball whisky.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Japanese whisky for highballs? +
Suntory Kakubin is the classic highball whisky in Japan, found in every izakaya. Suntory Toki was designed specifically for highballs and is widely available internationally. Hakushu Distiller's Reserve with fresh mint makes a premium highball that's worth the extra cost.
How do you make a proper Japanese highball? +
Fill a tall glass with ice. Add one part whisky. Stir to chill the whisky. Top with three to four parts cold soda water, pouring slowly against the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. Stir once gently from bottom to top. Garnish with a lemon twist. The key is keeping everything very cold and not over stirring.
Is it OK to use expensive whisky in a highball? +
In Japan, absolutely. Hakushu 12 highballs are served at high end bars without anyone batting an eye. That said, the soda does mask some subtlety, so whiskies designed for mixing (Toki, Kakubin) or with strong enough character to shine through (Hakushu, Nikka From The Barrel) are the best value choices.