Summer Cocktails To Enjoy This Season
Sun's out, cocktails out! Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with refreshing summer cocktails? Whether you see yourself as an aspiring mixologist or just love to host parties, you're going to need delicious drinks. Where to start? There are no real rules around here except to serve up summer cocktails that hit the spot and look good too. With the help of gin cocktail expert Pippa Guy, we've put together our easy summer cocktail recommendations guaranteed to get you and your guests in the summer spirit. Let’s go!
1. Is it even summer without gin cocktails?
It's always gin o'clock somewhere and sipping on a French 75 is summer sophistication all over. It's light, bright, citrusy sweet and pairs beautifully with the sunshine on your face. If you're not into fizzy drinks and fruity is more your thing, try a cocktail like the Raspberry Mint G&T- adding fruit and mint is a great way to give your drink a summer hue and seriously refreshing flavours. You can even try switching things up further with a frozen version. And we have to mention, of course, the classic G&T. Try a classic Tanqueray & Tonic for a fresh and floral experience. Or if you fancy a more experimental recommendation, Pippa drinks hers with a shot of cold brew coffee and Mediterranean tonic in the summer.
2. Vodka cocktails for the win
It's fresh. It's delicious. It’s iconic. And it only has two essential ingredients! The Vodka Martini is the easiest cocktail around and is made for summer sipping. Creating the perfect Vodka Martini depends largely on individual taste. If you're looking for something unique that still packs a punch, a Coconut Raspberry Martini is the summer flavour bomb you need in your life. All you need is some raspberry syrup (available at most supermarkets), coconut cream liqueur, vanilla vodka, and voila! You've got yourself one tasty drink that will impress even your biggest cocktail friends.
3. Whisky summer cocktails are a thing
Whisky is known for warming the cockles in winter. But if whisky cocktails are your love language, the good news is you don't have to put aside your brown spirits in the summer. Yes, gin, vodka, and tequila seem to get all the summer love, but whisky is equally as summer-worthy. It is the base of tasty sippers like Mint Juleps and Whiskey Smashes, which are easy to recreate at home to toast any occasion. And as summer is basically iced tea peak season, you should definitely try mixing up a Bourbon Strawberry Iced Tea. Simply mix fresh strawberries, lemon juice, bourbon, and simple syrup, and serve over unsweetened tea with fresh ice. For extra summer feels, why not garnish with berries and mint? This fancy drink is the perfect way to cool down on a hot afternoon.
One of Pippa’s favourite things to do in summer is to freeze her cocktails into ice lolly moulds. Gin, apple juice and mint is a crowd-pleasing favourite that always goes down well as the temperature increases.
4. A jug of Pimm's for every summer occasion
Anyone for Pimm's? It wouldn't be summer without a chilled glass of this crowd-pleasing drink. Add a handful of strawberries, a few slices of orange and cucumber, and you’ve got a refreshing Pimm's No.1 Cup. It's like summer in a glass! It's such an easy drink to mix and sip – the perfect afternoon party cocktail. If you're feeling fancy and want something bubbly, try a Pimm's Spritz. Or for a fruity aperitif, Pimm's Sundowner with raspberry and redcurrant – a great choice to sip on while watching the sunset with friends in the garden. And for food options that pair well with Pimm's, go for crudites, cheese and crackers or any of the delicious BBQ favourites.
5. Hello, summer tequila sips
Ah, the Tequila Sunrise. It's got this sweet, layered effect that looks really pretty, and you don't need to be a pro bartender to make it. Just make sure you don't stir it after adding the grenadine or the colours will get all mixed up and you’ll lose the "sunrise" effect. If you're having a party, you can make a pitcher by upping the amounts. Use 2 parts orange juice to 1 part tequila or add more juice to water it down a little before you add the grenadine to the pitcher or glasses. And if you're down for something different, you could give the Pineapple Margarita or Paloma a try.
To sum(mer) everything up…
Summer is the perfect time to cool down with delicious cocktails. Luckily there's no shortage of options! Tropical or fruity, classic or adventurous, there's something for everyone. Whether vodka, gin, tequila, whisky or bourbon is your drink of choice, with our recommendations you'll be able to mix up delicious drinks for you and your crew for every warm-weather occasion. Ready. Set. Summer!
