How to Make a Horse’s Neck: Bourbon, Ginger Ale and a Long Lemon Peel

The Horse's Neck is a bourbon highball with ginger ale and a long spiral of lemon peel. The peel is meant to look like a horse's neck.

It is an old drink, which started life as a non-alcoholic soft drink in the 1890s.

• Whisky: Bourbon
• Glass: Collins or highball glass
• Method: Built over ice
• Time: 3 minutes
• Makes: 1 serving

Horse's Neck Ingredients

For one drink, you will need:

• 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
• 4 oz (120 ml) ginger ale
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 long spiral lemon peel
• Ice

How to Make a Horse's Neck

1. Cut a long spiral of lemon peel in one piece. Hang one end over the rim of a tall glass and let the spiral fall into the glass.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Add the bourbon and bitters.
4. Top with ginger ale and stir gently.

What Does Horse's Neck Taste Like?

Gingery and crisp, with citrus oils and bourbon sweetness.

Tips for a Better Horse's Neck

• Cut the peel in one strip, avoiding the white pith.
• Use cold ginger ale.
• Add the bitters before the ginger ale.

Horse's Neck Variations

• Brandy Horse's Neck: Use brandy, the older version.
• Ginger beer: Use ginger beer for more spice.
• Rye: Use rye.

Best Whiskey for a Horse's Neck

Bourbon such as Buffalo Trace or Old Forester.

Horse's Neck FAQ

Why is it called Horse's Neck?

The long spiral of lemon peel resembles a horse's neck.

Is it the same as a Whiskey Ginger?

It is similar, but includes bitters and a long lemon peel.

Do I need the peel?

It adds citrus aroma and gives the drink its name.

More Whisky Recipes

Try Mint Julep · Brown Derby · Gold Rush, or browse all whisky recipes. Learn more in our Bourbon style guide.