The Seven and Seven (Seven & Seven, 7 & 7, 7 and 7) is a classic mixed drink featuring a blend of Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey and 7-Up soda, served in a highball glass over ice, and garnished with lemon or lime. It offers refreshing effervescence and smooth citrusy flavor profile that suits a wide variety of occasions.
What’s in a Name?
The Seven and Seven is a cocktail named for its two ingredients: Seagram’s 7 Crown Whiskey and 7-Up soda.
It is referred to as Seven and Seven, Seven & Seven, 7 & 7, 7 and 7, with all of the names being used interchangeably.
Why is it Popular?
From its lounge origins in 1970s America, the Seven & Seven has evolved into a timeless classic that is enjoyed worldwide and remains a staple in both bars and homes for its simplicity and the refreshing balance of the two ingredients. It’s a drink that doesn’t try too hard, yet never fails to impress cocktail novices and connoisseurs alike.
- Ease of Preparation: Its simplicity makes it accessible to anyone.
- Refreshing Taste: Offers a perfect balance of sweet and citrus, as well as invigorating fizziness.
- Cultural Staple: A classic cocktail that’s part of American cocktail history.
- Global Popularity: Now enjoyed in bars and homes all over the world.
Ingredients
As the name suggests, a classic Seven and Seven (7&7) cocktail calls for 1-2 ounces (30-60 ml) of Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey and 4-6 ounces (120-180 ml) of 7-Up soda, poured over ice in a highball glass, garnished with a wedge or slice of lemon or lime. It is a refreshing balance of sweet and citrus notes, perfect for a relaxed sip.
- Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey: 1-2 ounces (30-60 ml)
- 7-Up Soda: 4-6 ounces (120-180 ml)
- Garnish: Lemon or lime slice or wedge
- Ice: Preferably ice cubes for slower dilution
Ingredient Substitutes
- For whiskey, a light rye or a bourbon can offer a sweeter or spicier twist.
- Instead of 7-Up, any clear lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) or even ginger ale works for a different kind of sparkle.
Ingredient Proportions
Achieving the perfect 7&7 balance is more about personal taste than exact science. A 1:3 whiskey to soda ratio often hits the sweet spot, but adjust to your liking—more whiskey for a stronger kick, or more soda for a lighter touch.
Best Ingredients
Because the mixed drink only contains two ingredients, quality is key—opt for a smooth, versatile whiskey and a crisp, clean-tasting lemon-lime soda. Of course, the classic choice is the Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey and 7-Up soda. The freshness of the garnish can also elevate the drink, so use freshly sliced citrus.
Flavor Profile
The 7&7 is all about harmony—a silky whiskey note with the lively tang of citrus soda. It is a cocktail with a refreshing fizziness, moderate sweetness, and a bright, clean finish that invites another sip. It is approachable for newcomers yet satisfying for the seasoned drinker.
Tools & Equipment
Crafting a Seven and Seven (7&7) requires minimal tools: a highball glass for serving, a measuring jigger to ensure proper proportions, and a bar spoon for stirring. These tools ensure your cocktail is measured and mixed to perfection.
- Highball Glass: The traditional vessel for a 7&7, showcasing its clarity and effervescence.
- Measuring Jigger: Essential for accurate ingredient ratios.
- Bar Spoon: A long spoon for stirring without splashing.
Instructions for Preparation
To mix a Seven and Seven (7&7), fill a highball glass with ice, pour in the whiskey followed by the 7-Up, and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon or lime slice for that citrus zing. The simplicity of preparation makes the 7&7 a favorite for both home and professional bartenders.
- Step 1: Fill highball glass with ice cubes.
- Step 2: Measure and pour 1-2 ounces of whiskey over the ice.
- Step 3: Top with 4-6 ounces of 7-Up soda.
- Step 4: Stir gently with a bar spoon to mix.
- Step 5: Garnish with a fresh lemon or lime slice.
- Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy the fizzy delight.
Stir or Shake
The Seven and Seven (7&7) cocktail benefits from stirring, not shaking. Stirring preserves the drink’s clarity and carbonation, ensuring a crisp and refreshing experience.
- Why Stir: To maintain the soda’s effervescence.
- Stirring Technique: Use a bar spoon and gently stir to mix the ingredients well without losing the fizz.
Ice (Chilling & Dilution)
Ice is the silent hero of the 7&7, chilling the drink while its gradual melting dilutes the whiskey just enough to mellow its strength. Use larger ice cubes for a slower melt and minimal dilution, keeping the cocktail cool and potent.
Scaling (for a Group)
Scaling up a Seven and Seven (7&7) for a group is straightforward. Maintain the whiskey to soda ratio, and mix in a pitcher or jug. Serve in individual glasses with ice and garnishes, ensuring each glass has the cocktail’s signature taste and fizz.
- Batch Mixing: Prepare in a pitcher for convenience.
- Consistent Ratios: Keep the 1:3 whiskey to soda ratio.
- Serving: Pour over ice in highball glasses and garnish accordingly.
Troubleshooting (Biggest Mistakes)
The biggest mistakes in making a 7&7 include over-stirring, which can flatten the soda, and incorrect proportions, which can overpower or weaken the drink. Always aim for balance and stir gently to preserve the cocktail’s integrity.
- Over-Stirring: Avoid stirring too vigorously to prevent losing effervescence.
- Proportions: Stick to the recommended whiskey to soda ratio for a balanced drink.
- Quality of Ingredients: Use fresh garnishes, good quality soda and whiskey to ensure the best flavor.
Presentation
The visual appeal of a Seven and Seven (7&7) lies in its simplicity and elegance. Serve it in a clear highball glass to showcase its effervescence and golden hue. A well-placed garnish adds a pop of color and hints at the citrus notes within, making the presentation as inviting as the drink itself.
Glassware
A highball glass is the go-to for a 7&7, allowing for the perfect ratio of whiskey to soda, and highlighting the drink’s appealing aesthetics of golden effervescence. However, for a twist, a Collins glass can offer a taller, slimmer profile, enhancing the visual journey of the golden bubbles even more.
- Highball Glass: The traditional choice that complements the drink’s proportions.
- Collins Glass: A taller alternative that elongates the drink’s profile.
Garnish
A slice or wedge of lemon or lime is the quintessential garnish for a 7&7, adding a citrusy edge. For a creative twist, consider a lemon twist or a sprig of mint for an aromatic garnish that offers a hint of herbal freshness. For a fruity note, consider a maraschino cherry.
- Lemon or Lime Slice or Wedge: The classic garnish that provides a zesty aroma.
- Lemon Twist: A curled lemon peel adds elegance and a stronger lemon scent.
- Mint Sprig: Offers a refreshing aroma and complements the citrus notes.
- Maraschino Cherry: For a hint of cherry sweetness.
Variations & Riffs
The Seven and Seven (7&7) is a versatile cocktail, and its simplicity lends itself to numerous variations. Popular riffs include the Whiskey Ginger, using ginger ale instead of 7-Up, or the Crown and Sprite for a sweeter take. A Scotch and Soda offers a smokier profile, while substituting cola results in the classic Whiskey Cola.
- Whiskey Ginger: A spicier variant using ginger ale.
- Crown and Sprite: A sweeter twist with Sprite.
- Scotch and Soda: For a smokier flavor.
- Whiskey Cola: A bold, classic alternative.
Here are some other easy mixed drinks that only contain 2 ingredients.
Experiment (Create Your Own)
Creating your own riff on the Seven and Seven (7&7) allows for personal expression. Start with the base of whiskey and consider mixers like tonic for bitterness or a flavored seltzer for a fruity twist. Garnishes can range from classic citrus peels to more adventurous options like star anise or a cinnamon stick for added aroma and complexity.
- Base: Begin with a smooth whiskey.
- Mixers: Experiment with tonic, flavored seltzer, or even tea.
- Garnishes: Get creative with star anise, cinnamon, or even a splash of bitters.
- Balance: Aim for a harmonious blend of flavors, adjusting to personal taste.
Serving Occasions
The Seven and Seven (7&7) cocktail is a versatile choice, perfect for various occasions. Its refreshing nature makes it ideal for summer barbecues and casual gatherings, while its simplicity suits laid-back home bars or elegant cocktail parties. It’s also a go-to for happy hour or to unwind after a long day.
- Cocktail Parties: Easy to prepare, allowing hosts to enjoy the event.
- Happy Hour: A popular choice for its relaxed vibe and easy sipping.
- Summer Barbecues: Its refreshing taste complements outdoor dining.
Food Pairings
Pairing food with a Seven and Seven (7&7) is all about complementing its crisp, citrusy flavors. Try it with grilled chicken, light pasta dishes, or seafood. Its effervescence can cut through the richness of creamy cheeses or a buttery steak, and it’s delightful with lemon-flavored desserts.
- Creamy Cheeses: The fizziness contrasts with creaminess.
- Grilled Chicken: The smokiness of the grill matches well with the whiskey.
- Seafood: Especially good with lighter fare like shrimp or scallops.
- Lemon Desserts: Echoes the cocktail’s citrus notes.
Discover the classic charm of the Seven and Seven (7&7) by crafting your own, and share your mixology tales with us on social media!
Seven and Seven (7&7) Cocktail
Equipment
- 1 Measuring jigger
- 1 Highball glass
- 1 Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz Seagram’s 7 Crown Blended Whiskey (or other whiskey; 1-2 oz)
- 6 oz 7-Up (or other lemon-lime soda; 4-6 oz)
- 1 slice Lemon (or lime; optional for garnish)
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey.
- Top with lemon-lime soda for a sparkling touch.
- Stir gently to mix the flavors without losing the fizz.
- Garnish with a citrus slice for a zesty note.