Sparkling Water

Sometimes called soda water or club soda (though they’re slightly different), sparkling water is the unsung hero of long drinks. It lengthens a Gin and Tonic riff, tops off a Tom Collins, and makes any spirit-forward cocktail more sessionable. Club soda has added minerals, seltzer is just carbonated water, and tonic water has quinine and sugar — they’re not interchangeable. Use it straight from the fridge or a fresh can; flat sparkling water is just sad water. Pour it gently into your drink at the end — never shake a carbonated mixer unless you enjoy cleaning your ceiling.

Last modified on October 15, 2026