We’ve always loved the refreshing vibe of a classic lemonade, but our High West Lemonade Recipe takes it up a notch with a nod to Utah’s famed High West Distillery. This spirited twist blends tart citrus notes with their smooth whiskey for a cocktail that’s perfect for sunny gatherings or a relaxing evening unwind.
It’s not just easy to mix—it’s a crowd-pleaser that showcases how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. We’ll guide you through the steps to craft this balanced delight that elevates your drink game effortlessly.
Ingredients
To craft our High West Lemonade Recipe, we start by assembling high-quality ingredients that blend the bold flavors of Utah’s High West whiskey with the bright tang of fresh lemonade. This selection ensures a refreshing, spirited cocktail perfect for any gathering.
- 2 ounces High West whiskey: The High West whiskey forms the base of our cocktail, providing a smooth, complex warmth from Utah’s renowned distillery—use it straight from the bottle for the best flavor.
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Squeeze this from about 4-6 ripe lemons to capture that vibrant, citrusy essence that elevates our High West Lemonade Recipe.
- 1/2 cup simple syrup: Prepare this by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat; it adds just the right sweetness to balance the whiskey’s kick.
- 2 cups cold water or sparkling water: Add this last for dilution and a fizzy lift—opt for sparkling if you want an extra-refreshing twist in our High West Lemonade Recipe.
- Lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for garnish: Thinly slice 1 lemon and pluck a few mint leaves for a visually appealing finish that enhances the drink’s aroma and presentation.
Equipment Needed
To bring our High West Lemonade Recipe together seamlessly, we need a few essential tools that make preparation straightforward and efficient. With these items on hand, we’ll ensure our cocktail is mixed to perfection, capturing that vibrant citrus flavor and smooth whiskey base without any hassle.
Here’s a list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Jigger or measuring cup: For accurately measuring 2 ounces of High West whiskey, 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of simple syrup. Precision here ensures the perfect balance of flavors in our refreshing cocktail.
- Citrus juicer or reamer: Ideal for extracting the fresh lemon juice efficiently. We find this tool indispensable for getting the most out of those lemons, maximizing the zesty, tart notes that define our High West Lemonade.
- Large pitcher or mixing bowl: To combine the 2 cups of cold or sparkling water with the other ingredients. This allows us to mix everything thoroughly, creating a consistent blend for serving a crowd.
- Long stirring spoon: For gently stirring the mixture to incorporate all elements evenly. We use this to avoid over-agitating, preserving the drink’s fizzy texture if using sparkling water.
- Fine-mesh strainer: Optional but helpful for straining out any pulp or seeds from the lemon juice, ensuring our lemonade is smooth and visually appealing when garnished with lemon slices and mint leaves.
- Highball glasses: For serving the final drink. We suggest using chilled glasses to enhance the refreshing, cool sensation of this spirited lemonade.
By gathering these tools, we set ourselves up for a quick and enjoyable mixing process, turning basic ingredients into an extraordinary cocktail.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting our High West Lemonade with straightforward steps that transform fresh ingredients into a refreshing cocktail bursting with citrusy zest and smooth whiskey notes. Let’s dive into the preparation for this spirited twist on a classic.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before mixing, we ensure all components are ready for optimal flavor. Start by gathering the ingredients from our earlier list: 2 ounces of High West whiskey, 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 cup of simple syrup, and 2 cups of cold or sparkling water.
- First, juicing the lemons: Roll 4-6 lemons on a cutting board to soften them, then cut in half and use a citrus juicer to extract exactly 1 cup of juice, capturing the vibrant, tangy essence that brightens the drink.
- Next, prepping garnishes: Slice one lemon into thin wheels for garnish and pluck 6-8 fresh mint leaves, ensuring they are vibrant and aromatic to enhance the visual appeal and subtle herbal notes.
- Finally, measure out the High West whiskey and simple syrup using a jigger for precision, as these form the smooth, balanced base that elevates our cocktail.
Mix the Lemonade
We combine the prepared ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. In a large pitcher, pour in the 2 ounces of High West whiskey to lay the foundation of rich, smoky warmth.
- Add the 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 1/2 cup of simple syrup, stirring gently with a long spoon to dissolve the syrup fully and meld the tart and sweet elements into a lively mixture.
- Slowly incorporate the 2 cups of cold or sparkling water, stirring until everything integrates smoothly—this step dilutes the cocktail while adding a refreshing fizz if using sparkling water.
- For a polished finish, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the pitcher to remove any pulp or seeds, ensuring a crystal-clear, velvety texture that highlights the whiskey’s smoothness.
Chill and Serve
To achieve the perfect refreshment, we chill the lemonade for maximum enjoyment. Transfer the mixed lemonade to the refrigerator and let it cool for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and the drink to reach a crisp, invigorating chill.
- Once chilled, pour the lemonade into highball glasses filled with ice cubes, filling each glass about three-quarters full to maintain its effervescent quality.
- Garnish each serving with a lemon slice and a couple of mint leaves on the rim, presenting a visually stunning drink that tantalizes with its bright colors and aromatic herbs—ideal for sipping on warm evenings or at gatherings.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our High West Lemonade even more convenient for gatherings, we can prepare key components in advance without compromising its refreshing citrus tang and smooth whiskey warmth. This approach allows us to save time while ensuring the cocktail remains vibrant and ready to serve with minimal last-minute effort.
Preparing the Base Mixture
Follow these steps to mix the base ahead of time:
- Combine the core ingredients: In a large pitcher, we pour 2 ounces of High West whiskey, 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of simple syrup. Stir gently until fully blended, creating a harmonious base that captures the zesty brightness of the lemons balanced by the whiskey’s rich notes.
- Strain for smoothness: Use a fine-mesh strainer to pour the mixture into an airtight container. This removes any pulp or seeds, ensuring a silky texture that enhances the drink’s appeal when served.
- Store properly: Refrigerate the base mixture in the container for up to 48 hours. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more profound, invigorating taste.
Adding Final Touches
To maintain the cocktail’s fizz and freshness, we add these elements just before serving:
- Incorporate water: Right before pouring, we mix in 2 cups of cold or sparkling water directly into the pitcher. This preserves the effervescent sparkle and prevents it from going flat.
- Garnish and chill glasses: Prepare garnishes like lemon slices and fresh mint leaves no more than 30 minutes ahead. We recommend chilling the highball glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes to keep the drink crisp and cool upon serving.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base mixture | Up to 48 hours | Refrigerate in an airtight container to retain flavor integrity. |
| Water addition | Immediately before serving | Add sparkling water last to maintain fizz. |
| Garnishes | Up to 30 minutes | Keep refrigerated to preserve freshness and vibrant color. |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this High West Lemonade recipe with us
It’s more than a drink—it’s a simple way to bring flair to any occasion
Give it a try and you’ll discover how easy it is to craft something memorable
Our hope is that it becomes a staple in your repertoire for effortless entertaining
Frequently Asked Questions
What is High West Lemonade?
High West Lemonade is a refreshing cocktail that blends Utah’s High West whiskey with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and water for a spirited twist on classic lemonade. It’s perfect for social gatherings or relaxing evenings, offering a balance of smooth whiskey and vibrant citrus flavors.
What ingredients are needed for High West Lemonade?
You’ll need 2 ounces of High West whiskey, 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 cup of simple syrup, and 2 cups of cold or sparkling water. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves for added appeal. These high-quality ingredients create a smooth, flavorful drink.
How do you make High West Lemonade?
Start by juicing fresh lemons and preparing garnishes. Combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher, add water, and stir gently. Strain for smoothness, then chill for at least 30 minutes. Serve over ice in highball glasses, garnished with lemon and mint for a refreshing finish.
Can I prepare High West Lemonade in advance?
Yes, mix the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time, then strain and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Add water just before serving to keep it fizzy. Prepare garnishes and chill glasses in advance for easy entertaining.
What equipment is needed to make High West Lemonade?
You’ll need a jigger or measuring cup for accurate portions, a citrus juicer for lemon juice, a large pitcher or bowl for mixing, a stirring spoon, a fine-mesh strainer for smoothness, and highball glasses for serving. These tools make preparation quick and efficient.
Is High West Lemonade alcoholic?
Yes, it’s an alcoholic cocktail due to the 2 ounces of High West whiskey per serving, which provides a smooth base. Enjoy it responsibly, as the alcohol content makes it unsuitable for non-drinkers or those under the legal drinking age.
What are some variations of High West Lemonade?
You can substitute sparkling water for regular water for extra fizz, or add fruits like berries for a fruity twist. For a sweeter version, increase simple syrup slightly, or use different whiskeys if High West isn’t available. Experiment while keeping the core ingredients for the best flavor.