How to Make Green Tea Matcha Highball (Matcha Cocktail Recipe)

Green tea matcha highball or matcha cocktail is a refreshing Japanese-style cocktail made with shochu and freshly brewed green tea. Light, smooth, and easy to drink, it combines the earthy aroma of green tea with the clean finish of shochu for a balanced and refreshing cocktail.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Matcha cocktails are a light, refreshing alternative to heavier drinks. They’re often low in sugar and calories, making them a popular choice for a more balanced option. Also, green tea contains catechins, natural antioxidants that may support overall wellness. A matcha highball also tends to feel cleaner and less heavy than sweeter cocktails. It’s still an alcoholic drink though, so moderation matters. Enjoying 1–2 glasses responsibly is generally a good balance.

Ingredients Overview

Shochu - A Japanese distilled spirit with a smooth and mellow taste that pairs perfectly with green tea. Barley shochu is especially popular for its light and clean flavor. 

Sparkling water is another excellent addition if you prefer a mocktail. 

Green Tea - Freshly brewed green tea adds a delicate bitterness and refreshing aroma. Sencha is a great choice for a balanced and classic flavor.

Citrus - A squeeze of fresh lemon or yuzu juice adds brightness and helps tie the flavors together. The acidity lifts the earthy tea notes while enhancing the clean finish of the shochu

Optional: Add-on or Topping – Fresh mint, cucumber slices, or shiso leaves can make the cocktail feel even more refreshing and visually appealing. Sparkling water is another excellent addition if you prefer a bubbly drink. 

Helpful Tools

This clear teapot lets you easily see the tea as it brews, so you can control the color and strength to your liking. For an authentic Japanese izakaya experience at home, try serving your drink in an izakaya-style mug. 

Tips to Know Before You Start 

Use chilled tea! Let the tea cool completely before mixing the cocktail. Warm tea melts the ice too quickly and dilutes the flavor. 

Variations & Serving Ideas

Add sparkling water or mix in honey syrup for a gentle touch of sweetness. For a deeper, more roasted flavor, swap sencha for hojicha. If you prefer something lighter and more refreshing, sparkling water adds a crisp highball-style finish.

This drink pairs beautifully with Japanese snacks such as agemochi and Japanese otsumami. I also like to pair it with sushi, yakitori, karaage and tempura.