Moroccan Mint Highball by Will Wyatt | Westland Cocktail Collective

This year, the Westland Distillery's Cocktail Collective journey continues, venturing into an effervescent expression with esteemed bartender Will Wyatt. Wyatt's inventive approach to mixology shines through in his creation, the Moroccan Mint Highball, a refreshing and aromatic cocktail that showcases the versatility of Westland Whiskey.

This simple cocktail sits in the middle ground between a whiskey highball and a mint julep, according to its creator Will Wyatt. He remarks that “Westland does a very good job of cutting through in a cocktail, it has a distinct and direct enough flavor that for something as simple as a highball, it’s going to really stand out.” The tannin of the tea layers itself against a robust whiskey backdrop, balanced perfectly with club soda to create an inviting cocktail worthy of sharing. This highball is a testament to Wyatt's skill in balancing complex flavors, creating a harmonious symphony that delights the palate.


The Recipe: Moroccan Mint Highball
Cocktail Ingredients:
• 1.5 oz Westland American Single Malt Whiskey (Specify which one, e.g., Flagship, Peated, etc.)
• 2 oz Chilled Gunpowder Tea Syrup
• 3 oz Club Soda
• 5 Fresh Mint Leaves
• Mint Sprig, for garnish

Cocktail Instructions:
1. Slap 5 fresh mint leaves in your palm and add them to a Collins glass
2. Pour the Westland Whiskey over the mint leaves
3. Add the chilled gunpowder tea
4. Top with club soda
5. Fill the glass with ice and gently stir to combine, keeping the mint at the bottom of the glass
6. Garnish with a freshly peeled lemon twist and a straw

Chilled Gunpowder Tea:
• 1 L Water
• 30g Loose Leaf Gunpowder Tea (or 10 tea bags)
• 150g Light Brown Sugar
• 1 Teaspoon Kosher Salt

Instructions for Tea:
1. In a large saucepan, bring the water to just under a boil and remove from heat.
2. Immediately add the gunpowder tea and steep for 4 minutes.
3. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-resistant container.
4. Add the light brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
5. Cover and allow to cool completely.

So, with the Moroccan Mint Highball, we see that refreshing and nuanced to not need to be mutually exclusive. Using Westland Whiskey in this highball adds a “complexity” as Wyatt calls it, that adds a distinct depth to the cocktail. This drink serves as a wonderful amuse bouche for your dinner guests or a perfect accompaniment to your favorite takeout meal for a night at home.

Embark on a flavor adventure and craft your own Moroccan Mint Highball. Share your creations on social media using #WestlandCocktailCollective. Discover more inspiring recipes from the Westland Cocktail Collective. Explore the world of Westland Whiskey.