One Up Cocktail recipe
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One Up is a bold, modern highball-style cocktail that leans into contrast: clear agave, warm whiskey, and the dramatic edge of black vodka, all lifted with citrus and soda. It doesn’t sit within a well-documented classic lineage, and you’ll find it reads more like a contemporary mash-up built for impact—spirit-forward at the core, but shaped into something long and refreshing in a highball glass.
On the palate, the whiskey’s rounded grain and oak meet the clean, peppery snap of blanco tequila, creating a layered base that feels both familiar and unexpected. Black vodka adds extra weight and a darker, more neutral backbone, letting the spirits stack without turning overly sweet. Lime juice cuts straight through with sharp acidity, while lemon-lime soda softens the edges, adding a bright, fizzy finish that keeps the drink lively.
You’ll enjoy this when you want a crowd-pleasing serve that still feels a little rebellious—great for late nights, game-day energy, or any time you’re after something bracing and high-contrast. It suits drinkers who like citrusy refreshment but don’t want to give up a strong, multi-spirit punch.
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Whiskey and tequila blanco lead with a warm-meets-agave bite, while black vodka adds a dark, neutral heft that makes the lime juice pop sharper and the lemon-lime soda read crisp and bright. The citrus and soda keep the heavy base spirits from feeling muddy, so it suits adventurous highball drinkers who like bracing, spirit-forward refreshment over sweetness.
Method
How to make a One Up
- Whiskey 30ml, Tequila blanco 30ml, Black vodka 60ml, Lime juice 30ml, Lemon-lime soda 30ml
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- Add all the ingredients into a highball glass with ice
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- Stir and serve
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FAQ's
How do I properly stir the One Up cocktail to ensure it's well mixed?
To properly stir the One Up cocktail, fill your highball glass about halfway with ice cubes. Add the Whiskey, Tequila, Lime juice, Black Vodka, and Lemon-Lime soda in the listed order. Use a long spoon to stir the mixture gently but thoroughly for about 20 to 30 seconds. This method helps to chill the drink and mix the ingredients evenly without diluting the cocktail too much.
What is the best way to serve the One Up cocktail to enhance its flavors?
The One Up cocktail is best served in a highball glass over ice to keep it chilled, as its flavors are best enjoyed cold. Consider garnishing with a lime wheel or a twist of lime peel to add a zesty aroma, which can enhance the citrus notes in the cocktail. Serving it with a straw can also be a good idea, as it allows the drinker to enjoy all the layered flavors.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the One Up cocktail if I don't have them all?
Yes, you can make substitutions while keeping the cocktail's character. If you do not have Black Vodka, you can use regular Vodka with a drop of black food coloring for color, although this will slightly alter the taste. For a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic whiskey and tequila substitutes and omit the black vodka for a similar flavor profile. Always remember the balance of sour and sweet when substituting, especially with the lime juice and Lemon-Lime soda.
How does the alcohol content in the One Up cocktail compare to other classic cocktails?
The One Up cocktail has an alcohol content of 26.67%, making it a moderately strong drink. This is higher than light cocktails like the Mimosa, which has about 10% alcohol, but lower than very strong drinks like a traditional Martini, which can go up to 32% alcohol content. The One Up offers a nice middle ground, making it suitable for those who enjoy a noticeable but not overpowering alcohol presence.
What kind of food pairs well with the One Up cocktail?
The bold flavors of the One Up cocktail, with its mix of whiskey, tequila, and citrus notes, pair well with hearty, flavorful dishes. Try serving it with grilled meats, spicy Mexican cuisine, or rich appetizers like loaded nachos or spicy wings. The refreshing citrus elements in the drink can also complement seafood dishes, cutting through the richness with its lime juice and soda.
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