Strong drink may lead to a smash (8)

I believe the answer is:

highball

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'strong drink' is the definition.
'highball' can be an answer for 'drink' (highball is a drink). I'm unsure of the 'strong' bit.

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for highball that I've seen before include "Mixed drink served in a tall glass" , "Spirit and soda in tall glass - lob (8);" , "Cocktail served in a tall glass" , "Mixed alcoholic drink; go fast" , "Cocktail drunk" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.