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Scotch & Soda: easy Scotch highball — Drinks recipe | AfoodrinkDrinks

Scotch & Soda

A Scotch & soda is a simple whisky highball made with chilled Scotch, bubbly soda water, and plenty of ice. The drink is crisp, light, and easy to adjust to your taste.

Total time
5 min
Yield
1 drink
Difficulty
Easy

Prep 5mCook 0mScottishDrinks

Scotch & soda is one of the simplest ways to enjoy Scotch whisky. Soda water stretches the drink, softens the heat of the alcohol, and lets the whisky’s smoky, honeyed, or malty notes come through.

This is a built drink, which means you make it right in the glass instead of shaking it. Use a tall glass, cold soda, and fresh ice for the cleanest flavor.

This recipe is for adults of legal drinking age. The ratio is flexible, so start with more soda if you prefer a lighter drink.

01What you'll need

Ingredients

4 items · 1 drink

  • 2 ounces Scotch whisky
  • 4 to 6 ounces chilled club soda or sparkling water, to taste
  • Ice cubes, enough to fill the glass
  • 1 lemon twist, optional

02How to make it

Step-by-step

  1. 1. Chill the glass

    Place a highball glass in the freezer for 5 minutes if you have time. A cold glass helps the ice melt more slowly and keeps the drink bright.

  2. 2. Fill with ice

    Fill the glass all the way with fresh ice cubes. More ice keeps the drink colder and usually leads to less watery flavor than a glass with only a few cubes.

  3. 3. Pour the Scotch

    Add 2 ounces of Scotch whisky directly over the ice. Use a jigger, which is a small measuring cup for drinks, for the most balanced result.

  4. 4. Add the soda

    Pour in 4 ounces of chilled club soda for a stronger drink, or up to 6 ounces for a lighter, longer drink. Pour gently to keep as many bubbles as possible.

  5. 5. Stir lightly

    Use a bar spoon or a regular spoon to stir once or twice. Do not over-stir, or the soda will lose its fizz.

  6. 6. Garnish and serve

    If using a lemon twist, hold it over the glass and gently bend it to release the citrus oils, then drop it in or rest it on the rim. Serve right away while cold and bubbly.

03From our kitchen

Cook's tips

  • Make-ahead: Do not mix the drink ahead of time. The soda will go flat. Instead, chill the Scotch, soda, and glass in advance, then build the drink when ready to serve.
  • Storage: A finished Scotch & soda does not store well. If it sits too long, the ice melts and the bubbles fade.
  • Whisky swap: Blended Scotch is a classic choice because it is smooth and balanced. Single malt works too, especially if you want a more distinctive smoky, fruity, or coastal flavor.
  • Soda swap: Club soda has minerals and a clean, slightly salty edge. Sparkling mineral water can add more character. Tonic water is sweeter and more bitter, so it will make a different drink.
  • Ratio tip: For a spirit-forward drink, use 2 ounces Scotch to 4 ounces soda. For a lighter highball, use 2 ounces Scotch to 6 ounces soda.
  • Ice tip: Use fresh ice from a clean tray. Old freezer ice can pick up off flavors.

Cook's note

Nutrition is estimated for 2 ounces of 80-proof Scotch and 5 ounces of plain club soda. Alcohol contributes calories but is not listed as fat, carbohydrate, or protein. Enjoy responsibly and only if you are of legal drinking age.

04Frequently asked

Questions & answers

What kind of Scotch is best for Scotch & soda?

A blended Scotch is a reliable place to start because it is usually balanced and affordable. If you enjoy smoky flavors, try a peated Scotch. If you prefer a softer drink, choose a lighter, honeyed style.

Can I use sparkling water instead of club soda?

Yes. Sparkling water works well. Club soda often has added minerals, which can make the drink taste a little crisper, but plain sparkling water keeps the flavor clean.

What is the best ratio for Scotch & soda?

A common ratio is 1 part Scotch to 2 or 3 parts soda. For this recipe, that means 2 ounces Scotch with 4 to 6 ounces soda. Adjust based on how strong or light you want the drink.

Should I garnish a Scotch & soda?

A garnish is optional. A lemon twist adds a fresh aroma without much sweetness. You can skip it if you want the Scotch flavor to stay front and center.

Can I make this without alcohol?

For a nonalcoholic version, use a zero-proof whisky alternative and top it with soda water. The flavor will be different, but the highball format still works.

05Per serving

Nutrition facts

Nutrition Facts

1 drink

Amount per serving

Calories130

% Daily Value*

Total Fat0 g
0%
Saturated Fat0 g
0%
Cholesterol0 mg
0%
Sodium20 mg
1%
Total Carbohydrate0 g
0%
Dietary Fiber0 g
0%
Total Sugars0 g
Protein0 g
0%
Vitamin D0 mcg
0%
Calcium5 mg
0%
Iron0 mg
0%
Potassium0 mg
0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

05Keep cooking

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