Summer is here, and it's time to indulge in the best craft cocktails that the season has to offer. Whether you're lounging by the beach or hosting a backyard barbecue, there's no better way to cool off than with a refreshing drink in hand.
And what better way to quench your thirst than with a delicious and creatively crafted cocktail?
The beauty of craft cocktails is that they're not your typical, run-of-the-mill drinks. They're carefully crafted, using only the freshest ingredients and the most innovative techniques.
From fruity and sweet to bold and boozy, there's a craft cocktail out there to suit every taste.
So, what makes a great summer craft cocktail? For starters, it should be light and refreshing, with a balance of sweet and sour flavors.
It should also be visually appealing, with bright colors and garnishes that make it as much of a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. And of course, it should be easy to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time and get back to enjoying the summer sun.
If you're looking for inspiration, you're in luck. In this blog post, we'll be sharing some of the best summer craft cocktail recipes out there.
From classics with a twist to brand new creations, these drinks are sure to impress your guests and keep you cool all summer long. So, grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Hibiscus Mojito
The Hibiscus Mojito is a refreshing and vibrant summer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail combines the tangy and floral notes of hibiscus syrup with the refreshing taste of mint and zesty lime. The addition of rum gives it a boozy kick that transports you to the tropics.
The cocktail is topped off with club soda and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint and lime slice, making it a beautiful and healthy drink. This cocktail is perfect for Easter, Mother’s Day, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, Ladies Luncheons, Tea Parties, Garden Parties, BBQ’s, and more. It's not overly sweet, making it a great option for both men and women. Give this cocktail a try, and you won't be disappointed!
2. Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail
The Beach Blossom Rum Cocktail is a sweet and tart, fruity, and slightly floral cocktail made with white rum, coconut, guava, pineapple, citrus, and a touch of orange flower water. The stunning pink color of the cocktail is thanks to the guava syrup, which also adds an authentic guava flavor to the drink.
The cream of coconut adds a creamy texture to the cocktail, making it a smooth and delightful drink. It's a perfect tribute to the joys of summertime and a great way to celebrate a new addition to the family.
3. Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonics
The Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. It features St. George Spirits' Botanivore gin and a high-quality tonic, such as Fever Tree or Small Hands. The added ingredients and garnishes, such as pink grapefruit, rosemary, and juniper, infuse the drink with subtle flavors and a beautiful appearance.
Spanish-style Gin & Tonics have been popping up on menus recently, and for good reason. The Elderflower Spanish Gin & Tonic is a perfect example of this, with its balanced proportions and infusion of unique flavors.
4. Orange Creamsicle Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and creamy summer cocktail? Look no further than the Orange Creamsicle Cocktail. This citrusy and botanical drink is made with Tanqueray Gin infused with Sevilla orange, giving it a unique and complex flavor. Inspired by the traditional Dominican drink Morir Soñando, this cocktail combines equal parts of freshly squeezed orange juice and evaporated milk, sweetened with vanilla syrup, and shaken with a shot of gin.
The result is a fruity and well-balanced cocktail that's perfect for outdoor entertaining and pairs well with grilled foods. The Orange Creamsicle Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a boozy and tropical drink that's sure to impress.
5. The Hemingway Daiquiri
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique summer cocktail, The Hemingway Daiquiri is definitely worth trying. This cocktail was originally created for the famous writer, Ernest Hemingway, and has become a classic drink with a twist.
Unlike the traditional daiquiri, this cocktail includes grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, giving it a zesty and slightly sweet flavor that is perfectly balanced. The Hemingway Daiquiri is a great option for those who want to try something new but still want to stick to a classic cocktail. So, if you're looking for a drink to cool off with on a hot summer day, give The Hemingway Daiquiri a try.
6. Tart Cherry Fizz
The Tart Cherry Fizz is a refreshing summer cocktail that's perfect for any occasion. With only four ingredients, it's easy to make and can be scaled up for a party.
The tart cherry juice blends perfectly with the vodka, and the addition of club soda gives it a friendly tickle with every sip. The red color of the cocktail is perfect for your patriotic spread and there’s none of that gross food coloring. All natural ingredients mean even better flavor!
7. Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail
The Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail is a vibrant and fruity tiki drink that will transport you straight to the Caribbean. This potent cocktail was discovered on a cruise, and it has become a favorite among those who love a boozy punch. Made with spiced rum, banana liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice, and bitters, this cocktail packs a punch that will leave you feeling hazy and happy.
While it may be easy to get carried away with this delicious drink, it's important to remember to drink responsibly. If you're looking for a fun and fruity cocktail to enjoy with friends this summer, the Drunken Monkey Rum Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Frozen Mango Mezcal Margarita
Looking for a unique and refreshing summer cocktail? Look no further than the Frozen Mango Mezcal Margarita. This creamy and frozen concoction is made with smoky mezcal, triple sec, and sweet mangos, creating a unique and delicious twist on the classic margarita.
Even if you're not a fan of mezcal, this cocktail is worth a try – the smoky flavor blends perfectly with the sweetness of the mango. And for those who prefer an alcohol-free option, this recipe can easily be made without the mezcal and triple sec. If you're looking to impress your guests with a creative and delicious summer cocktail, give the Frozen Mango Mezcal Margarita a try.
9. Blackberry Bourbon Smash
The Blackberry Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and delicious summer cocktail that is perfect for those who love a little sweetness in their drinks. Made with fresh blackberries, mint, honey, and lemon juice, this cocktail is muddled together to create a fruity and flavorful base.
The addition of bourbon adds a touch of warmth and depth to the drink, while the ginger beer and ice give it a nice fizz and chill. The garnish of mint and lime sugar rim adds a fun and playful touch to the cocktail. Overall, the Blackberry Bourbon Smash is a must-try for anyone who loves a good summer cocktail that is both easy to make and packed with flavor.
10. Strawberry Basil Gin Sour
The Strawberry Basil Gin Sour is a perfect summer cocktail for those who love fruity and herbaceous flavors. Made with fresh strawberries and basil, this cocktail is sweet, tangy, and refreshing. The addition of gin gives it a nice kick, while the aquafaba or egg whites add a silky foam to the drink.
The syrup used in this cocktail is made with a simple method that requires little prep time, making it an easy recipe to follow. Whether you're sipping it on a hot summer day or serving it at a party, the Strawberry Basil Gin Sour is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful pink hue and delicious taste.
11. Spicy Jalapeno Margarita
Looking for a summer cocktail that packs a punch? Look no further than the Spicy Jalapeno Margarita. This cocktail is a perfect blend of spicy and sweet, with the heat of jalapeno peppers balanced out by the sweetness of margarita mix.
The addition of fresh cilantro leaves infuses traditional Mexican flavors into the drink, making it a refreshing and unique option for any summer gathering. Whether you're a lover of spicy food or just looking to try something new, this cocktail is sure to impress. So, why not mix up a batch and give it a try?
12. Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling is a classic cocktail created in 1915 at The Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. It's a well-balanced and boozy drink with acidity from the citrus and pineapple, subtle sweetness from the liqueurs, bitterness from the herbal liqueur, and a fair bit of heft from the gin and three different liqueurs.
Although there is no standard recipe for it, a properly made Singapore Sling should be well-balanced and not overly sweet. It's a refreshing and complex cocktail that's definitely worth trying.
13. Island Dreamsicle Cocktail
The Island Dreamsicle Cocktail is a refreshing summer drink that will transport you to the Hawaiian islands with just one sip. Made with Koloa Kaua'i Coconut rum, pineapple juice, lime, and coconut milk, this cocktail is perfect for those who love the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut.
The addition of vanilla coconut milk gives it a unique twist, while freshly squeezed Cara Cara orange juice turns it into a "Painkiller" cocktail. The use of Tiki bitters adds depth and complexity to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy craft cocktails. Overall, the Island Dreamsicle Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing summer drink.
14. El Diablo
The El Diablo is a classic tequila cocktail with a unique twist. It's a "buck" cocktail made with ginger beer, citrus juice, and tequila, but what makes it stand out is the addition of creme de cassis.
This gives the drink a distinct and delicious flavor that is perfect for summer. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail to try, the El Diablo is a must-try.
15. Snap Pea Gin and Tonic
Looking for a refreshing summer cocktail that's both delicious and unique? Look no further than the Snap Pea Gin and Tonic! This twist on the classic G&T features a homemade snap pea simple syrup that adds a sweet, herbaceous flavor to the drink.
The gin and tonic base is crisp and botanical, making it the perfect complement to the fresh snap pea flavor. A slice of cucumber adds a refreshing touch to this garden-inspired cocktail. If you're looking for a drink that's both refreshing and unexpected, the Snap Pea Gin and Tonic is a must-try.
16. Empress Gin Cocktail
The Empress Gin Cocktail is a beautiful twist on the classic Gin and Tonic. The gin used in this recipe is Empress 1908, which has a natural purple color derived from butterfly pea flower and other botanicals. When mixed with tonic water or seltzer, it transforms into a delicate soft violet pink.
The flavor is mild and classic, making it a great choice for those who love gin but want to try something new. This cocktail is perfect for summer parties and gatherings, and is sure to impress with its stunning appearance. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing summer cocktail, the Empress Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
17. Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail
The Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail is a refreshing and unique summer drink that combines the sweetness of cucumber with the spiciness of hot peppers and the savory flavor of Thai basil. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their drinks, but don't want it to overpower the other flavors.
The addition of white rum gives the cocktail a nice, sweet undertone that balances out the spiciness. The garnish of Chinese Five Color peppers adds a pop of color and a touch of heat to the drink. Overall, the Spicy Thai Basil Cucumber Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a creative and delicious summer cocktail.
18. Grapefruit Shandy
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try this summer? Look no further than the Grapefruit Shandy. This low-alcohol blended beer is mixed with grapefruit juice for a citrusy twist on a classic shandy. The grapefruit flavor is not too overpowering and perfectly complements the bitterness of the beer.
Plus, mixing your own shandy allows you to customize the beer to soda ratio and choose a less sweet soda for a more balanced taste. If you're a fan of grapefruit or looking for a new summer drink, give the Grapefruit Shandy a try.
19. Cheerwine Cocktail
The Cheerwine Cocktail is a refreshing and unique summer drink that incorporates the iconic cherry soda from North Carolina. This cocktail combines Cheerwine, vodka, and lime juice to create a spiked cherry limeade with a hint of wild cherry flavor. It's perfect for those who love a sweet and tangy cocktail with a touch of nostalgia.
Even if you can't find Cheerwine where you live, you can easily substitute any cherry soda to recreate this delicious drink. So, if you want to try something new and exciting this summer, give the Cheerwine Cocktail a try and toast to the land of the longleaf pine.
20. Grilled Mezcal Margaritas
Looking for a unique twist on the classic margarita? Look no further than the Grilled Mezcal Margarita. This cocktail combines the sweetness of honey syrup with the tartness of grilled lemon juice and the smokiness of mezcal, a type of agave-based liquor similar to tequila but with a much smokier flavor.
The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail that is both refreshing and complex. If you're looking to impress your guests with a creative and delicious summer cocktail, the Grilled Mezcal Margarita is definitely worth a try.
21. Mezcal Paloma Cocktail
The Mezcal Paloma Cocktail is a perfect drink for a hot summer day. It's a twist on the classic Paloma cocktail, made with fresh grapefruit juice and tequila. However, this version uses mezcal, which gives it a smoky and refined taste. The cocktail is sweet and refreshing, with a subtle hint of smokiness that adds depth to the flavor.
It's a great alternative to a margarita, and perfect for those who want to try something new. The cocktail is usually served in a high ball glass over ice, but can also be poured into a traditional cocktail tumbler. Overall, the Mezcal Paloma Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious summer drink.
22. The Aviation Cocktail
The Aviation Cocktail is a classic gin-based cocktail with a unique twist. This lovely lavender colored cocktail features a combination of gin, Maraschino liqueur, and Creme de Violette. The latter is a liqueur made out of violets, which adds a soft floral note and a beautiful lavender hue to the cocktail.
The Aviation Cocktail is easy to make and perfect for summer sipping. It's a delightful and refreshing cocktail that stands the test of time and is sure to impress your guests. Don't miss out on this elegant and delicious cocktail at your next summer gathering.
23. Cava Sangria
Cava Sangria is a refreshing and bubbly summer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a twist on the classic sangria, with the addition of cava's bubbles that add a light and refreshing touch to the fruity flavors.
It's a quick and easy cocktail to make, making it perfect for summer BBQs or holiday parties. This cocktail is perfect for those who prefer a lighter and fruitier drink, with a little kick from the added spirits. If you're looking for a unique and delicious summer cocktail, Cava Sangria is definitely worth a try.
24. Grilled Lemon Gin and Tonic
The Grilled Lemon Gin and Tonic is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic gin and tonic. This cocktail incorporates charred lemon slices, giving it a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the citrus notes of the gin.
The addition of fresh thyme adds an herbaceous touch, making it a perfect summer sipper. This cocktail is perfect for those who love gin and tonics but want to try something new and exciting. Give it a try and let your taste buds be pleasantly surprised.
25. Hibiscus Gin Sour
The Hibiscus Gin Sour is a refreshing and unique pink cocktail with a delightful floral fragrance and subtle flavor. It's perfect for parties and get-togethers and is sure to impress your guests with its frothy, layered appearance.
The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it a great choice for last-minute gatherings or impromptu happy hours. Give it a try this summer and discover a new favorite cocktail!
26. Spanish Gin Tonic
If you're looking for a refreshing and fun summer cocktail, you might want to try the Spanish Gin Tonic. This cocktail is a popular drink in Spain and is served in large fishbowl gin tonic glasses with a straw. What makes this cocktail unique is the abundance of fruits, vegetables, and aromatic sprinkles added in, making it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
You can get creative with your own design by using colorful slices of fresh fruit, veggies, or herbs. The gin tonic is perfect for hot summer days and is best served cold. If you're looking to impress your guests with a unique and refreshing cocktail, the Spanish Gin Tonic is definitely worth a try.
27. Ginger Lime Hibiscus Moscow Mule
The Ginger Lime Hibiscus Moscow Mule is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic Moscow Mule. Made with hibiscus vodka, ginger beer, and lime, this cocktail has a tart and floral flavor that is perfect for summer. The bright pink color adds a fun and festive touch to any party or gathering.
It's a great choice for those who want to try something new and exciting, while still enjoying the classic flavors of a Moscow Mule. So, if you're looking for a delicious and eye-catching cocktail to serve at your next summer event, give the Ginger Lime Hibiscus Moscow Mule a try!
