Northwinds Highball

Flavor profile

Cucumber oil on the nose, quinine bite, and a long fizzy cut — afternoon patio weight without a sugar crash.

Our take

South City Kitchen in Avalon does not have to be a highball place, but the patio traffic basically demands a drink you can hand to someone who 'doesn’t do cocktails.' This one still reads for people who do.

Elderflower tonic is the cheat code for 'refreshing' without going tropical. The gin is present — if the tonic drowns it, ask for a shorter build.

Ingredients

• Plymouth or dry gin
• Cucumber
• Lime
• Elderflower tonic (split)

Pairing recommendations

• Fried green tomatoes and pimento — acid and fat love this amount of fizz and herb.
• Grilled trout with capers and herbs — the cucumber bridge holds.