The 7&7 (named for 7-Up soda and Seagram’s 7 Crown whiskey) is a much-maligned 70s highball that has more potential than we snobby cocktail drinkers gave it credit for.
With the ingredients it’s named for, it’s a passable drink, especially with a squeeze from a fresh lemon or lime wedge – refreshing, light, uncomplicated. But swap out the mild 7 Crown for a spicy rye or a sweet bourbon, and top it with a craft lemon-lime soda or small-batch sparkling lemonade, and magic happens.
It’s an excellent template for experimentation, and a great way to introduce new drinkers to the possibilities offered by choosing different (and better) ingredients.
