Polar Ginger Ale

Polar Ginger Ale is a ginger-flavored carbonated soda, sold here as a mixer. Ginger ales in this style usually taste sweet at first and finish with a gentle ginger warmth. They are lighter and less spicy than ginger beer, so they support a spirit without overpowering it. Expect a clean, lively fizz and a mild spice that works in a long drink. That profile suits highballs built on a single spirit. Whiskey and ginger ale is the obvious pairing: bourbon or Canadian whisky at roughly one part spirit to three parts soda tastes smooth and a little sweet. Dark rum, brandy and vodka take to it just as well. Gin and ginger ale makes a refreshing, low-effort long drink. If you want a Moscow Mule-style drink with less bite, swap ginger ale for ginger beer, add a generous squeeze of lime, and expect a softer result. A Shirley Temple-style non-alcoholic drink also comes together easily with a splash of grenadine and a cherry. For best results, serve it cold and open it just before pouring, since carbonation fades quickly once the seal is broken. Use a tall highball glass filled to the top with ice, which keeps the drink cold and slows dilution. Pour the spirit over the ice first, then top with ginger ale at an angle to preserve the bubbles, and give it one gentle stir. A lime wedge, lemon wheel or thin slice of fresh ginger works well as a garnish. On its own over ice, ginger ale also pairs well with salty, fried or savory food such as pretzels, fried chicken or grilled sandwiches. A bottle kept in the fridge is handy for mixing at home.