Coconut Tequila Highball

A front on shot of a collins glass with a clear liquid inside and a wedge of lime on top.

The Coconut Tequila Highball is a delicate and tropical drink inspired by the classic whiskey soda version. Lightly sweet and refreshing.

It's going on winter here in Australia, meaning that the best season of weather is upon us in Brisbane (where I live). Winter in Brisbane means average temperatures of 20 degrees celsius. Cool in the shade but perfect in the sunshine. Weather where you can wear nice blazers out and comfy loungewear in. If you couldn't tell, it's my favourite season.

While winter usually leads me to drink spirit-forward cocktails usually containing bourbon or rum, sherry or spice heavy concoctions, sometimes I do feel like something refreshing. And the craving for this inspired Coconut Tequila Highball. Based upon the whiskey and soda version.

The Whiskey Highball, a beloved classic cocktail, traces its roots back to the late 19th century. Originating in America, this refreshing drink quickly gained popularity and spread across the globe. Its enduring appeal lies in the simplicity of its ingredients and the balance of flavours it achieves. Composed of just two fundamental components—whiskey and carbonated water—the Whiskey Highball showcases how minimalism can create a drink of remarkable depth and character.

Coconut tequila highball in a tall collins glass with a lime wedge on top

Close up shot of the top of a collins glass with a clear liquid inside, ice and a lime wedge

In the Coconut Tequila Highball, I've replaced the two ingredients with coconut tequila and coconut water. The tequila is smooth and fragrant with a subtle sweetness that complements that of the coconut water. My favourite way to enjoy this cocktail is with regular non-carbonated coconut water, but if you can get your hands on the effervescent kind, definitely give that a go. If you don't have coconut tequila on hand, you can substitute with blanco tequila or even coconut rum, which will give you a sweeter drink.

Watch the video here. If you make this one, don't forget to tag me on Instagram or TikTok. I love to see it!