Originally a non-alcoholic drink in the 1890s, the Horse's Neck Cocktail gained its kick when bourbon or brandy was added—and it's never looked back. Made with just two main ingredients (spirit + ginger ale) and a signature long lemon peel that coils around the inside of the glass, it's a minimalist stunner. In LA, where less-is-more reigns and design matters, the Horse's Neck is a drink that thrives at sleek hotel bars and minimalist cocktail lounges.
Elegant. Easy. Underrated.
Ingredients For The Horse's Neck Cocktail (One Serving)
- 2 oz Bourbon or Brandy
- 4–6 oz Ginger Ale (high-quality)
- Long spiral lemon peel (must-have garnish)
- Ice
- Glass: Highball
LA Local Tip: Party Shakers sources craft ginger ales from LA's own Q Mixers, Fever-Tree, or local soda artisans. For bourbon, we often use smooth, low-burn options like Broken Barrel or Four Roses Small Batch for balance.
How to Make the Horse's Neck, LA Style
1. Spiral a lemon peel inside a highball glass.
Use a channel knife or peeler to get one long, elegant strip. Hook it on the rim so it cascades inside the glass.
- Fill the glass with ice.
Big, clear cubes keep it cool and classy. - Add bourbon (or brandy).
2 oz is standard, but we can scale it for low-proof or strong-service setups. - Top with ginger ale.
Pour slowly to preserve bubbles and lift the citrus aroma. - No stirring necessary—serve immediately.
The rising citrus and effervescence do the work for you.
Why the Horse's Neck Gallops in LA
The Horse's Neck is fresh, fizzy, and not overloaded with sugar or syrup. Guests love it because:
- It works all day—at brunch, receptions, or midnight wind-downs
- It's low-key, but visually striking
- It pairs with everything from BBQ to sushi to sliders
- It photographs beautifully with that iconic lemon curl
- Perfect for:
- Rooftop receptions in Century City
- Poolside parties in Hollywood Hills
- Brunch pop-ups in Echo Park
- Beach weddings in Manhattan Beach
FAQs
What's the difference between this and a whiskey ginger?
Presentation and intention. A whiskey ginger is casual. The Horse's Neck Cocktail is elevated—thanks to the lemon spiral and attention to balance.
Can I make it with brandy instead of bourbon?
Yes—classic versions often used brandy. Party Shakers offers both to suit the event's tone and food pairings.
Is it good for batching?
Yes—especially when paired with a self-serve garnish station. Pre-mix the spirit and ginger ale and pour over fresh ice per guest.
Book the Cocktail That Makes Simple Look Sharp – Horse's Neck in LA
Stylish, refreshing, and always easy to sip, the Horse's Neck Cocktail is ideal for warm LA events and clean design-focused menus. Party Shakers brings the spiral, the bubbles, and the balance. Other drinks are also worth checking out.
✅ Available across Los Angeles County: Beverly Hills, Santa Clarita, Westwood, Silver Lake
✅ Optional "Highball Bar" with ginger beer, ginger ale, and soda options
✅ Perfect for weddings, outdoor events, and whiskey-friendly crowds
✅ Served by Party Shakers mixologists who understand the power of restraint
Book Party Shakers – Serve the Horse's Neck and Let Your LA Event Keep It Cool Without Trying Too Hard