Lightstrike Lemon-Lime

Lightstrike Lemon-Lime is a lemon-lime mixer from Esplanda. Mixers in this style usually give a bright citrus lift with a gentle sweetness and a lively fizz, and the lime tends to read slightly sharper than the lemon. The label, not this page, is the place to check the exact sweetener, carbonation level and ingredients. Serve it cold, straight from the fridge or over plenty of ice. Carbonation fades fast in warm liquid, so chill both the bottle or can and the glass. Pour down the side of the glass or over a bar spoon, and add it last to keep the bubbles. Because lemon-lime sodas work as a neutral, citrusy extender, a good ratio to start with is one part spirit to two or three parts mixer, adjusted to taste. The most natural pairings are clear spirits. Vodka and lemon-lime is a dependable highball, and gin picks up the citrus oils in its botanicals. Blanco tequila with a squeeze of fresh lime and a pinch of salt makes a quick, easy-drinking long drink. White rum works too, and so does a light blended Scotch for people who want a milder take on a whisky highball. It can also lengthen a spritz-style drink, either with a splash of bitter aperitif liqueur or in place of part of the soda in a punch. Fresh lemon or lime wedges will sharpen the flavor if the mixer reads sweet. Use a highball or Collins glass filled with ice, which keeps the drink cold and holds the fizz longer than a wide-mouthed glass. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it over ice with a wedge of citrus and a few mint leaves. It also goes well with salty, fried or spicy food, where its sweetness and acidity cut through richness.