High Fashion

The High Fashion cocktail is a modern classic that emerged from the vibrant cocktail scene of Portland, Oregon, specifically from the acclaimed Departure Restaurant + Lounge. Created by bartender Adam Robinson, the drink made its debut in the early 2010s and quickly garnered attention for its balance of bitter and bubbly. A refreshing twist on a spritz, the High Fashion pairs sparkling wine with the bold complexity of Aperol and the herbal depth of St-Germain elderflower liqueur. Finished with a touch of fresh grapefruit juice, it’s a cocktail that manages to feel simultaneously avant-garde and approachable.

The name “High Fashion” is a nod to the drink’s elegance and refined presentation, a sparkling aperitif designed to feel luxe without being fussy. Its popularity has grown in cocktail circles for those looking for an alternative to overly sweet or boozy drinks, striking a perfect chord between style and substance. The High Fashion fits seamlessly into the lineage of aperitivo culture, echoing the glamour of an Italian terrace with a distinctly modern, West Coast twist.