We’ve all been there – it’s the middle of a heatwave, and you’re craving something cold, refreshing, and maybe a little boozy. Ditch those tired, boring summer sippers – it’s time to level up your drink game! Whether you’re a casual cocktail fan or a full-blown mixology maestro, these summer drinks are guaranteed to be a hit. We’ll cover tried-and-true classics, trendy new twists, and a few insider tips for crafting the perfect drink. Keep in mind that summer is a season best spent with friends – some of these cocktails are extra tasty when served up in pitchers!
1. Piña Coladas: A Vacation in a Glass
Piña Coladas scream summer, relaxation, and maybe a few too many poolside naps. This classic is usually made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. Sometimes served frozen, sometimes on the rocks, it’s a drink you can customize to your liking. If you’re feeling fancy, fresh pineapple makes all the difference.
Bonus Tip: Swap out the cream of coconut for a generous scoop of coconut ice cream or gelato if you want a boozy, milkshake-like concoction. This is a fantastic dessert drink that’ll impress party guests.
Piña Coladas are a crowd-pleaser with a well-earned reputation for their laid-back island vibes. They’re a perfect pick when you want your drink to do the heavy lifting in the ‘summer mood’ department.
2. Gin? In Summer? YES!
If you think gin is just for martinis, it’s time to expand your horizons. Gin-based cocktails are seriously overlooked in hot weather. Their dry, botanical flavor profile is a delightful match for citrus and herbs. While they can be a bit more complex, mastering a few gin drinks will seriously boost your cocktail cred.
Start your gin journey with a simple Gin & Tonic. It’s a blank canvas for experimentation. Try different tonic waters (they’re more complex than you think!), a variety of citrus, or fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a summery twist.
Want something with a bit more punch? Try a French 75, made with gin, lemon, sugar, and sparkling wine. It’s bubbly, elegant, and perfect for summer parties.
3. Margaritas: The Quintessential Summer Sip
Is it even summer without a margarita? Classic versions with tequila, lime, and a touch of sweetness are incredibly easy to make at home. Once you’ve mastered that, you’ve got an amazing flavor base to experiment with.
Spicy margaritas add a jalapeno slice (or three!) for a little heat. Upgrade your margarita with a fancy salt rim: chili-lime salt, smoked salt, or even black salt give your drink an instant boost. Frozen, fruity versions are pure summer joy, especially with flavors like mango or watermelon.
Beware: The ease of drinking margaritas can be deceptive. These bad boys pack a punch. Pace yourself!
4. Spritzers and Sangria: Light and Fruity Favorites
Not everyone wants a super boozy cocktail. Luckily, spritzers and sangria are here to save the day! Spritzers are low-alcohol drinks made with sparkling wine, a splash of liqueur (like Aperol or St. Germain), and club soda. They’re bubbly, bright, and perfect for lazy afternoons. Play around with seasonal fruits to add some color and sweetness.
Sangria is another fantastic way to infuse fresh flavors into your drinks. Red, white, and rosé wines all make great bases. Throw in your favorite seasonal fruits, some brandy, and a touch of liqueur for something truly special. Be sure to make a pitcher – sangria is best after the flavors have had time to mingle.
Both sangria and spritzers offer endless opportunities for customization. Their low-alcohol content also makes them ideal for day drinking at picnics, barbeques, and summer festivals.
5. Minty Mojitos: An Herb Lover’s Delight
If you’ve got mint growing in your garden, it’s time to put it to good use. You only need a few simple ingredients for a mojito: white rum, lime juice, mint, sugar, and soda water. It’s a light, herbaceous concoction with a subtle sweetness that’s perfect for hot weather. You can thank Cuba for this classic!
Mojitos require a little muddling to release all that minty goodness. If you don’t have a muddler, the blunt end of a wooden spoon works just fine. Be gentle with the mint, or your drink could turn bitter. Don’t over-muddle!
Pro Tip: Swap the rum for gin, vodka or even tequila for a unique spin on this refreshing summer favorite.
6. Frosé All Day!
Remember when Frosé took over Instagram a few summers ago? There’s a reason – this slushy, boozy treat is the definition of a summer drink. The traditional base is rosé wine, but you can use whatever wine you like.
Simply blend frozen strawberries (or your …fruit of choice) with wine and simple syrup and freeze until icy. Blend again and you’ve got an instant summer party hit.
7. DIY Summer Coolers
Sometimes you want something unique that you can’t order at a bar. Enter the wonderful world of homemade summer coolers! These refreshing concoctions are a great place to experiment with different flavors. They also save you money when you’re entertaining larger groups.
The base of most coolers is fruit juice, soda, and your favorite spirit. Think spiked lemonade, fizzy watermelon coolers spiked with vodka, or a boozy twist on iced tea. Garnish generously – fresh fruit, edible flowers, or even a colorful popsicle will elevate your drinks to the next level.
Summer is the perfect season for trying new cocktails and experimenting with flavors. Remember, the joy of drinking is all about having fun and finding what you love. Whether it’s a classic, a modern twist, or something entirely your own – cheers to keeping your glass full and spirits high all summer long!
