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Horse's Neck
Posted: July 18, 2026
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About
The Horse's Neck takes its distinctive name from the long continuous spiral of lemon peel that curls over the rim of a highball glass and hangs down into the drink, resembling a horse's neck and mane. Originally created in the 1890s as a non-alcoholic ginger ale drink with just the lemon garnish, bourbon or brandy was added in the early 1900s to create the cocktail we know today. It's one of the great simple highballs — warming bourbon softened by the sweetness and spice of ginger ale, grounded by Angostura bitters, and perfumed by the citrus oils from the lemon spiral. Effortless, elegant, and universally appealing.
Instructions
- Peel an entire lemon in one long continuous spiral. Hook one end of the spiral over the rim of a highball glass so it hangs inside the glass.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Add bourbon and Angostura bitters.
- Top with ginger ale and stir gently once to combine.
- Serve immediately.