Light, effervescent and endlessly easy to drink, the Korean Highball is our crisp-and-carbonated signature — a lower-proof option that never sacrifices flavor. It reflects the global, ingredient-driven spirit of Apex Aqua Vitae and has quietly become one of the most-ordered refreshers at our bar in Apex, North Carolina.
A modern highball
Soju forms the clean, subtly sweet base. We top it with ume plum soda water for a tart-and-fruity lift, add ginger bitters for a warm spice undertone, and finish with a bright lemon expression and a piece of candied ginger. The carbonation keeps everything crisp, dry and thirst-quenching.
Because soju is lighter than most spirits, the Korean Highball drinks gently — perfect when you want a genuine cocktail without a heavy pour. It is proof that “refreshing” and “refined” belong in the same glass.
The everyday luxury sipper
This is the cocktail to order on a warm Triangle evening, at the start of a long night out, or when you want something you can enjoy more than one of. It suits fans of gin and tonics, spritzes and Japanese highballs alike.
It is a natural match for lighter plates — try it with the Cheese & Crackers Platter or Hummus Dip for a clean, easygoing pairing.
The rise of the highball
Highballs are having a global moment, and for good reason: they are refreshing, sessionable and endlessly adaptable. Our Korean Highball taps into that energy with soju and ume plum, delivering big flavor at a gentle proof — exactly what many drinkers want when they still want to feel sharp at the end of the night.
It reflects the international curiosity that shapes our whole menu at Apex Aqua Vitae. If the crisp, carbonated style suits you, ask about our Japanese whisky highballs too — another expression of the same easy, elegant idea, poured fresh in the heart of the Triangle.
Good to know
- Bar: Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar
- Category: Signature Cocktails
- Where: Apex, North Carolina, in the heart of the Raleigh–Durham–Cary Triangle
- Easy to reach from: Cary, Raleigh, Morrisville and Holly Springs
- Explore or reserve: lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246
- Follow along: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for new pours and events
Frequently asked questions
What is a Korean Highball?
A crisp, carbonated cocktail made with soju, ume plum soda water, ginger bitters and lemon, garnished with candied ginger.
Is the Korean Highball low in alcohol?
It is lighter than most cocktails because soju is a lower-proof spirit, making it an easy, refreshing choice.
Where can I get a Korean Highball in Apex, NC?
At Apex Aqua Vitae, as part of the handcrafted signature cocktail list.
Visit Apex Aqua Vitae — Liquid Luxury & Bar in Apex, North Carolina. Explore the full menu at lightpink-chamois-855074.hostingersite.com/ or call 919-267-4246. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
See all seven signatures under Handcrafted Cocktails.