How To Make a Highland Cooler

This is a wonderful Scotch-based cocktail. Internationally, the Highland Cooler is one of the most commonly ordered cocktails. As a result of its widespread popularity, the recipe may differ a bit according to location. The first recipe I give you is perhaps the most common and traditional Highland Cooler. This recipe is recognized by the International Bartending Association. The tartness of the lemon juice combined with the powdered sugar and Angostura bitters will create a terrific flavor. Here are some easy-to-follow directions so you can try one for yourself.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Scotch whiskey
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 oz. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. powdered sugar
• 4 oz. ginger ale

Directions:

1. Fill a highball glass 2/3 full with ice.
2. Add Scotch whiskey, Angostura bitters, lemon juice, and sugar.
3. Fill with ginger ale.
4. Serve.

Often, when ordering a Highland Cooler at your local pub, you may receive a drink that is a bit more potent. This next recipe gained popularity during the 1940's, and as a result is most commonly served in establishments catering to an older crowd. It is important that you recognize the drink's higher alcohol content, and consume it moderately. After all we don't want to see you acting like some drunken, out-of-control Britney Spears!

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Scotch whiskey
• 1/2 tsp. powdered sugar
• 3 oz. carbonated water
• 1 spiral of lemon peel
• 1 spiral of orange peel

Directions:

1. Add powdered sugar and carbonated water to a Tom Collins glass.
2. Stir.
3. Fill glass with ice.
4. Add Scotch whiskey.
5. Garnish (optional). Add either spiraled lemon or orange peel depending on personal preference. Or perhaps both! Allow spiral(s) to dangle over the rim of the glass.

You may come across some other variations as well. Bartenders, much like chefs, are creative by nature; they will tweak a recipe just a tad in order to add a unique twist. Often bartenders will use simple syrup in place of powdered sugar, ginger ale, and/or carbonated water. Simple syrup is a bartender's best friend. It will give the drink a much smoother consistency, taste, and drinkability. If you wish to make simple syrup for your Highland Cooler, all you need are five minutes, sugar and water!