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A popular alcoholic beverage nowadays in Japan is simple cocktail called: ハイボール or"Highball". It can be ordered in Izakaya pubs and is also sold (as canned drinks) in supermarkets. A Highball is a mixture of whisky with soda or tonic water, ice, and often has lemon added for extra flavor. In Izakayas and eateries it is normally served in large glass beer mugs which are called ジョッキ "jokki". Highballs are cheap, strong, and have a clean, sharp taste -- and go well with pub foods such as grilled meats, tempura (deep fat fried seafood & vegetables), and various dishes prepared with salty soy sauce. Over the years, Japan adopted Western methods for producing whisky, and slowly built-up distillery businesses which now produce international award-winning whiskies. The major companies which produce whisky are Suntory, Nikka, and Chichibu. Japanese single-malt & blended whiskies are said to be generally similar in taste to Scotch. In order to broaden the market for whisky and increase its appeal with younger consumers, a major marketing effort was made for Highballs, and it really succeeded. A good example of this can be seen nowadays on the refrigerated shelves of supermarkets and convenience stores, where lots of canned Highballs are lined-up with the beers and "chu-hai's" (Japan's version of hard-seltzers). Of interest, the alcoholic content of canned Highballs are clearly marked and range from 5% to 9%. For those who prefer to mix their own drinks, all of the required ingredients and ice are also readily available for purchase -- including cheaper versions of whisky sold in large 5-liter plastic bottles. If you are so inclined, please try out this drink which is now a best-seller in Japan.

written by Goodfield