Introduction
The Salt-And-Pepper Highball is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic Salty Dog cocktail. While the original Salty Dog is known for its simple mix of gin and grapefruit juice with a salted rim, the Salt-And-Pepper Highball elevates the experience with the addition of fresh lemon juice and Angostura bitters. This cocktail offers a delightful balance of tartness and aromatic depth, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet easy-to-make drink.
This cocktail is a modern interpretation, bringing together the sharpness of gin with the invigorating zest of citrus and the subtle warmth of bitters. The Salt-And-Pepper Highball is ideal for summer afternoons or any occasion where you crave something refreshing and intriguing. Its name hints at the playful contrast of flavors, much like the classic seasoning duo.
Fun fact: Highball cocktails are typically served in tall glasses over ice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the drink chilled. The term 'highball' originated from the railway industry in the late 1800s, referring to a signal for trains to proceed at full speed—aptly describing how these drinks are meant to be enjoyed with brisk enthusiasm.
Ingredients
To craft the Salt-And-Pepper Highball, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients for a delightful cocktail experience:
- 1.5 oz Gin: Choose a gin with botanical notes that complement the citrus flavors. London Dry Gin works beautifully for its crisp and clean profile.
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for a bright, tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the syrup.
- 1 oz Simple Syrup: A 1:1 mix of sugar and water, adding a touch of sweetness to the cocktail. Adjust to taste if you prefer a less sweet drink.
- 3 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice: Fresh grapefruit juice provides a refreshing and slightly bitter base, enhancing the gin's botanicals.
- 3 dashes Angostura Bitters: A few dashes of Angostura bitters add complexity and aromatic depth, rounding out the cocktail.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Salt-And-Pepper Highball and enjoy its unique blend of flavors:
- Fill a rimmed highball glass with ice.
- Shake all the ingredients with ice and strain into the prepared glass.
Tips
- For an added layer of flavor, consider salting the rim of the highball glass before filling it with ice. This nod to the classic Salty Dog can enhance the overall taste experience.
- Experiment with different types of gin to find your preferred flavor profile. A citrus-forward gin can amplify the fruity notes, while a spicier gin might add unexpected warmth.
- Ensure your grapefruit juice is freshly squeezed for the best flavor. Bottled versions often lack the vibrant taste and can alter the cocktail's balance.
- Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or lemon for a visually appealing presentation and an extra burst of citrus aroma.
Conclusion
The Salt-And-Pepper Highball is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a complex and rewarding cocktail experience. With its refreshing citrus notes and aromatic bitters, this drink is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the ease of preparation, and let this cocktail become a staple in your repertoire.
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Salt-And-Pepper Highball recipe adapted from The Craft of the Cocktail by Dale DeGroff.
