Baso - Spiced Rum, Grapefruit & Cinnamon Highball Cocktail

The Baso is a refreshing citrus highball that balances tart grapefruit, fresh lime, and warming cinnamon spice. Spiced rum provides a smooth foundation while club soda keeps the drink crisp and approachable. It's an easy cocktail to make at home and a great option when you want something lighter than a traditional rum sour.

A Modern Citrus Highball

The Baso appears to be a contemporary cocktail built around the growing popularity of simple, citrus-driven highballs. Similar drinks gained traction during the craft cocktail resurgence of the 2000s, when bartenders began pairing bold flavored spirits with fresh juice and sparkling mixers. The result is a drink that feels both modern and familiar.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• Spiced Rum - the warming backbone with notes of vanilla and baking spice.
• Goldschlager® - adds cinnamon heat and aromatic complexity.
• Lime Juice - delivers bright acidity and balance.
• Grapefruit Juice - contributes tart citrus flavor and subtle bitterness.
• Club Soda - adds lift, dilution, and refreshing carbonation.

Substitutions

• Replace Goldschlager® with another cinnamon schnapps.
• Swap spiced rum for dark rum for a richer profile.
• Use blood orange juice instead of grapefruit juice for a softer citrus character.
• Replace club soda with sparkling water if preferred.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Highball glass
• Ice

Why You'll Love It

Grapefruit Meets Cinnamon

Most highballs focus on either citrus or spice. The Baso brings both together. Grapefruit's tart bitterness keeps the drink refreshing while cinnamon adds warmth that lingers through the finish. The combination feels distinctive without becoming complicated.

Substitutions & Variations

• Add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical variation.
• Increase the rum slightly for a more spirit-forward version.
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick to reinforce the spice notes.
• Add a few mint leaves before shaking for a brighter herbal twist.

Helpful Tips

• Use freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice whenever possible.
• Chill the glass before serving for maximum refreshment.
• Add the club soda after straining to preserve carbonation.
• Serve with grilled seafood, tacos, or barbecue.
• Batch the non-carbonated ingredients ahead of time for parties and add soda when serving.