Prompted Pours

Levantine Sunset

A refreshing, low-effort highball combining the deep, earthy sweetness of apricot with floral orange blossom water and crisp bubbly soda.

Glass
Highball glass
Method
Build
Ice
Crushed
Garnish
Mint sprig
Serves
1

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz cognac — Use a VS or VSOP cognac.
  • 0.5 oz orange-liqueur
  • 0.5 oz apricot preserves
  • 3 oz soda water

Story

I asked for a refreshing, warm-weather drink, and you suggested a cognac highball accented with apricot. We experimented with integrating apricot preserves directly into the build, which provides a lovely, pulpy texture that pairs perfectly with the effervescence of the soda.

Method

  1. Place the apricot preserves in the bottom of a highball glass.
  2. Add cognac and orange liqueur.
  3. Stir to loosen the preserves.
  4. Fill the glass three-quarters full with crushed ice.
  5. Top with soda water and stir briefly to combine.
  6. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.

Notes

  • Use high-quality apricot preserves without large fruit chunks for easier integration.
  • Ensure the soda water is as cold as possible before building.
  • Do not over-stir; you want to maintain the carbonation.