Mint Highball

Pro tips

• Chill your highball glass with ice before pouring to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Pour the crème de menthe first, then top with chilled ginger ale or club soda and stir gently to avoid over-carbonation.
• Use fresh ice; old ice absorbs freezer flavors and dilutes faster.
• Taste as you go—crème de menthe is sweet, so adjust the mixer ratio to your preference.

Substitutions

• Ginger ale → club soda (removes spice, creates a cleaner mint flavor)
• Green crème de menthe → white crème de menthe (less color, same mint flavor)
• Ginger ale → lemon-lime soda (adds citrus sweetness)

Storage & make-ahead

Prepare immediately before serving; carbonated mixers are best fresh and should not be stored mixed with spirits.

Equipment

highball glass · bar spoon or long spoon for stirring

What's the difference between ginger ale and club soda in this cocktail?

Ginger ale adds spice and sweetness to complement the mint, while club soda keeps it crisp and neutral, letting the mint shine.

Should a mint highball be served over ice?

Yes, serve over ice in a highball glass to keep it cold and dilute slightly as it melts for balanced flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Mix the crème de menthe and ice in the glass, then add your mixer just before serving to preserve carbonation.

What glassware do I need?

A standard highball glass (10–12 oz) is traditional for this drink.

Is green crème de menthe the same as peppermint schnapps?

No—crème de menthe is sweeter and more liqueur-like, while peppermint schnapps are typically hotter and drier.