Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster (Whiskey, Peach & Blue Curaçao Highball)

This Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster is a playful, juice-forward mixed drink built for fun rather than formality. Inspired by Douglas Adams’ legendary sci-fi universe, it combines bourbon with peach schnapps, Blue Curaçao, and orange juice for a bright, slightly sweet highball that’s easy to build and even easier to enjoy.

Background

The Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster originates from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, where it’s famously described as “the best drink in existence.” While the fictional version is impossible to recreate, modern bar interpretations lean into bold color, sweetness, and pop-culture appeal rather than classic cocktail structure.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Bourbon – the backbone, adding warmth, caramel notes, and structure
• Peach schnapps – brings sweetness and ripe stone-fruit flavor
• Blue Curaçao – adds citrus notes and the signature electric-blue color
• Orange juice – softens the drink and ties the fruit flavors together

Substitutions:
No Blue Curaçao? Use triple sec for citrus flavor (you’ll lose the blue color).
No peach schnapps? Apricot schnapps or peach nectar can work in a pinch.

Equipment

• Highball glass
• Bar spoon
• Ice

Why This Drink Works

Bright color, familiar flavors, and zero intimidation. Bourbon’s natural sweetness pairs easily with fruit-forward liqueurs, making this a party-friendly highball that looks wild but drinks easy.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap bourbon for rye whiskey for a spicier edge
• Use pineapple juice instead of orange juice for a tropical angle
• Add a splash of lemon juice if you want extra brightness and balance

Helpful Tips

• Chill your glass first to keep the drink vibrant and cold
• Stir gently to preserve clarity and color
• Garnish with an orange slice or lemon twist for a simple visual upgrade