Barsys
The Ruby Vermouth Highball
About
The Ruby Vermouth Highball is a refined, low-proof cocktail designed for long evenings and easy conversation. Built around Foro Vermouth di Torino Rosso, this drink shifts the spotlight away from base spirits and onto the layered herbal depth of quality vermouth. Blood orange juice adds a subtle fruit richness and color, while a few dashes of Angostura bitters bring spice and complexity without weighing the drink down.
Finished with ginger ale and served over crushed ice, the result is aromatic, gently bitter, lightly sweet, and incredibly drinkable. This is a “still” highball in spirit - not aggressive, not boozy, and not demanding attention - just smooth, spiced refreshment that keeps the pace relaxed. Ideal for guests who want to sip slowly, socialize longer, and stay sharp well into the night, The Ruby Vermouth Highball proves that lighter cocktails can still feel grown-up and intentional.
Shaken or Stirred? Neither. This cocktail is built directly in the glass to preserve its light, aromatic character.
What You'll Need
- 2 oz Foro Vermouth di Torino Rosso
- 1 oz Blood Orange Juice
- 3 dashes Angostura Bitters
Garnish: Orange peel twist, Ginger Ale (to top)
Pro Tip: Use crushed ice to keep the drink cold and gently diluted - it softens the bitterness beautifully.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 1 minute
Skill Level: Easy and elegant
- Fill a highball glass with crushed ice.
- Build vermouth and blood orange juice over the ice.
- Add Angostura bitters.
- Top with ginger ale.
- Gently stir.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist.
Using Barsys Cocktail Machine?
Barsys 360 Cocktail Machine is perfect for low-proof, build-in-glass cocktails like this. Load vermouth and blood orange juice into the machine and let it dispense a perfectly balanced base over crushed ice. Finish with bitters and ginger ale for a quick, consistent serve that’s ideal when guests are flowing in and out.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
Vermouth-forward drinks rely on restraint - too much juice flattens the herbs, too many bitters overwhelm the palate. Barsys 360 cocktail machine ensures every pour stays precise, keeping the cocktail light, layered, and endlessly drinkable without tipping into excess.
Sip Setting
Perfect for cocktail hours that stretch into conversation-heavy nights. This is the drink guests reach for when they want to stay engaged, not overwhelmed.
Garnish Game
An expressed orange peel twist adds aroma and polish. For a deeper note, briefly flame the peel before twisting to release warm citrus oils.
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FAQs
Is this a low-alcohol cocktail?
Yes - vermouth-forward and intentionally sessionable.
Can I use regular orange juice?
You can, but blood orange adds depth and color.
Can I swap ginger ale for soda?
Yes - it becomes drier and more bitter-forward.
Can this be batched?
Yes - batch everything except ginger ale. Add it per glass.
Is crushed ice necessary?
Highly recommended - it keeps the drink soft and refreshing.