We all have our go-to refreshments for those hot summer days when we sit by the pool or on the beach. But sometimes, it’s important to mix things up a little bit. With the help of two mixologists, Jasmine Callis of Westport, New York and Brett Long, bartender at Hobies and Green Room in Plattsburgh, New York, and from my own tasting experience, I have compiled a list of must-try summer drinks.
Sparkling Peach Punch
Loaded with citrus flavors, peach slices and sparkling wine, this drink is sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day. This sipper is composed of peach nectar, orange juice, lemon juice, peach schnapps, grenadine syrup, carbonated water and sparkling Moscato. A perfect drink to share by the pool.
Watermelon Lime Margarita
A traditional drink with a refreshing twist, tequila and triple sec combined with watermelon juice and lime juice make for a sweet and tangy spirit. This can also easily be made into a frozen margarita by throwing some ice cubes in a blender. The ideal drink to sip while enjoying the sun on your porch.
Dark ‘N’ Stormy
Not every day in summer can be beautiful and colorful, but that doesn’t make it any less wonderful. Just like the occasional thunderstorms in the summer, the Dark ‘N’ Stormy is a refreshing change from the same-old same-old. All you need to concoct this beverage is some ginger beer and dark rum. This drink will give you a change of pace with a strong but sweet taste.
Lava Flow
The Lava Flow is a twist on two classic frozen drinks, the Strawberry Daiquiri and the Pina Colada. Mixing these two drinks into one gives the perfect tropical taste. Combining strawberry, pineapple and coconut is nothing short of ingenious. If you want to feel like you’re laying on a beach in Hawaii or the Caribbean this is the drink for you. For an added twist, add in a shot of Peach Schnapps when blending the drink!
Shark Attack
The sweet, sweet taste of a Shark Attack is something you will never forget. This drink is usually served fishbowl style and is designed to share. With the additions of candy and fruit, this beverage is sure to cure your sweet tooth. This potion is a mixture of vodka, coconut rum, Blue Curacao, sweet and sour mix, pineapple juice, lemon-lime soda, Nerds candy, Swedish Fish candy and various fruits. This drink is perfect for sharing with friends on the patio.
Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade
Lemonade, the classic summer refreshment, is always a staple at cookouts and get togethers, but sometimes you need more than just a lemonade. So here we have an alcoholic, extra fruity lemonade for those of age. With blackberries, mint leaves, lemon juice and simple syrup, it’s hard to go wrong with this cocktail. With the sweetness of the lemon and blackberries and the deep flavor of the bourbon, this drink is sure to please everyone who sips it.
Kiwi Mojito
Mojitos are a classic. They are minty and delicious. Adding fruits to them makes them even better. With white rum, kiwi, agave nectar, mint leaves, lime juice and club soda, this drink is sure to quench your summer thirst. The Kiwi Mojito is best enjoyed while lying in a hammock swinging your worries away.
If you’re ever stuck on what to order and don’t want to drink the same ol’ boring drink again and again, take another look at this list and give something new a try. Enjoy your summer full of tasty sips, warm breezes and lots of sunshine. Happy sipping!
APN 