Some say that this year’s drink of the summer is a mezcal cocktail, while others argue that the Hugo spritz is the real heavy hitter of the season. But why should we limit ourselves to a single trendy cocktail? While we’re here for trends, sometimes we’re simply in the mood for a good, weather-appropriate drink.
There are so many from which to choose: A refreshing mojito, perfect for poolside sipping, or a citrusy margarita to perk up heat-stunned hangouts. Or the tropical piña colada, which conjures white-sand beaches at first sip, or the floral gin daisy, which feels like a garden in full bloom. Not to mention the so-pink-it-hurts Barbie cocktail (to be enjoyed while “beaching,” obviously) or the cool-you-down-from-the-inside-out sangria slushie.
Make one for yourself, or batch a bunch for a crowd. Go for boozy summer selections or low-ABV concoctions. But no matter what direction you choose, you can rest assured any of these drinks will cool you down.
Note: If you’re staying sober this summer, swap the alcohol in any of these drinks with non-alcoholic spirits or opt for one of our summer-ready non-alcoholic cocktail recipes.
Piña Colada
Popularized in the 1960s and 70s, the piña colada remains the perfect cocktail for any summer day.
Mai Tai
A tiki mainstay, the mai tai combines two types of rum with citrus-forward ingredients, conjuring images of palm trees and white-sand beaches.
Long Island Iced Tea
Equally famous and infamous, the Long Island Iced Tea evokes strong responses, but it’s indisputably refreshing.
French Press Sangria
The French press is for more than just coffee. March this tool over to the bar cart with this French press sangria recipe.
Sangria Slushie
This slushie recipe gives sangria a summer makeover with infinite possibilities for customization.
White Wine Spritzer
This fizzy wine and soda cocktail has been an iconic summertime symbol since the ’70s.
Mojito
Tainted by years of overly muddled sugar bombs, this simple, elegant cocktail is one of the oldest in existence.
Watermelon Mojito
This watermelon mojito features fresh fruit juice and vibrant ginger beer. Need we say more?
Ranch Water
This Texas summertime staple uses three ingredients for a refreshing, easy cocktail.
Salty Dog
A mix of grapefruit juice, gin or vodka served over ice with a salted rim, the Salty Dog is the perfect highball variation to beat the summer heat.
USS Bomber
Tall, glistening with crushed ice and draped in patriotic colors, this unique cocktail from New York City’s Maison Premiere is all about America.
Barbie Cocktail
Barbie has everything: the clothes, mansion, career, shoes and a new feature-length film. Now, she has her very own cocktail, too.
Hugo Spritz
The Hugo spritz is a refreshing, low-alcohol sparkling wine cocktail with a gentle, floral flavor and a hint of herbaceous mint.
Gin Daisy
A member of the daisy cocktail family, this gin-spiked sipper is reminiscent of a margarita, minus the tequila.
Paloma
The Paloma, a combination of tequila and grapefruit, is all about simplicity.
Classic Margarita
The origin of the iconic margarita is hotly debated. Get the story behind this classic tequila-based cocktail and learn how to make one properly.
Non-Alcoholic Margarita
Fresh citrus and non-alcoholic tequila keep this virgin margarita recipe balanced.
Tequila Sunrise
Orange juice, grenadine, and blanco tequila are the stars in this sweet, refreshing, ombre-effect cocktail.
Sex on the Beach
Don’t let the cheeky name deter you from ordering one. This sweet tropical drink turns any locale into a beach vacation, at least in spirit.
Bellini
Forget those watered-down cocktails from bottomless brunch. The traditional Bellini recipe leans on fresh peaches for a sensational sparkler.
Mimosa
One of the world’s most popular cocktails, the mimosa has a murky history. No one argues it’s perfect for a summer brunch, though.
Greyhound
Nothing against Greyhound buses, but we think we’ll take the Greyhound cocktail instead. Here’s how to make it right.
Hurricane Cocktail
A New Orleans classic, the Hurricane cocktail dates to World War II and was created in response to a whiskey shortage.
The Guavabonga
This zesty mezcal cocktail is packed with tropical citrus fruit and sure to delight.
The Detox
An intriguing combination of pineapple and celery, this non-alcoholic cocktail comes together with a savory dash of sea salt.
Related Products
Last Updated: August 1, 2023
