As the mercury rises, we take a look at five easy-to-make summer time cocktails to help you beat the heat.
As the sun stretches its rays longer into the evening and the heat of summer settles in, it’s time to embrace the season with a glass of something cool, crisp, and utterly refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, lounging by the pool, or simply unwinding after a long day at work, these five cocktails will elevate your summer experience to new heights. From tangy citrus blends to fruity concoctions, there’s something here to suit every palate. So, grab your shaker, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into the world of summertime libations.
READ: Staying True to the Classics
The Classic Mojito
Said to have first been crafted in Havana, Cuba, during the 16th century, the Mojito is a popular libation the world over and started out as the “El Draque,” in a homage to Sir Francis Drake, an English explorer and privateer. It’s sweet, cooling and yet packs a punch.
Ingredients:
2 oz. white rum
1 oz. fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons sugar
6-8 fresh mint leaves
Soda water
Lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions: In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and sugar until fragrant. Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in the rum. Top with soda water and gently stir. Garnish with lime wedges and mint sprigs. Enjoy the crisp, minty freshness of summer in a glass.
Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Who doesn’t love the combo of watermelon and cucumber in summer and this take on a classic cooler adds the zest of citrus as well as the soul-soothing addition of vodka.
Ingredients:
2 oz. vodka
1 cup fresh watermelon chunks
4-5 cucumber slices
1 oz. lime juice
1/2 oz. simple syrup
Ice cubes
Cucumber slices and watermelon wedges for garnish
Instructions: In a blender, combine watermelon chunks, cucumber slices, lime juice, and simple syrup. Blend until smooth. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour in the vodka. Strain the watermelon-cucumber mixture into the glass. Garnish with cucumber slices and watermelon wedges. Sip and savor the cool, hydrating flavours of summer.
READ: Vintage Cocktails Arrive in TST
Ginger Peach Iced Tea Cocktail
A slightly sweet and spicy yet refreshing blend, this dead-easy take on the classic bourbon sweet tea is a sure fire heat buster.
Ingredients:
2 oz. bourbon
1/2 cup brewed peach tea, cooled
1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz. ginger simple syrup
Lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish
Instructions: In a shaker, combine bourbon, peach tea, lemon juice, and ginger simple syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice cubes. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint. Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tart flavours.
READ: The Big Apple Comes to Elgin Street
Tropical Pineapple Margarita
Who doesn’t love tequila? And even if you don’t you’re likely to love this combo of citrus, tequila and sweet tropical pineapple. For another touch, add a little chilli salt to the rim.
Ingredients:
2 oz. silver tequila
1 oz. triple sec
1 oz. fresh lime juice
2 oz. pineapple juice
Pineapple wedges and lime slices for garnish
Salt or sugar for rimming (optional)
Instructions: Rim a glass with salt or sugar, if desired. Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and pineapple juice. Stir well to combine. Garnish with pineapple wedges and lime slices. Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with every sip.
READ: Would You Drink Cocktails at the Airport?
Coconut Mojito
Another great rift on the classic mojito, this rendition has a sweet soft flavour profile as well as plenty of tropical freshness.
Ingredients:
2 oz. coconut rum
1 oz. coconut cream
1 oz. fresh lime juice
6-8 fresh mint leaves
Soda water
Lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions: In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with lime juice. Fill the glass with ice cubes and pour in the coconut rum and coconut cream. Top with soda water and gently stir. Garnish with lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes. Enjoy the tropical twist on a classic cocktail.
With these five refreshing summertime cocktails in your repertoire, you’re all set to beat the heat and toast to the joys of the season. Whether you’re lounging on a sun-drenched patio or entertaining friends at a backyard gathering, these drinks are sure to keep your spirits high all summer long. Cheers to good times and great drinks.
For more Wines & Spirits inspiration click here
LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? FOLLOW ALPHA MEN ASIA ON FACEBOOK, OR INSTAGRAM AND SUBSCRIBE TO OUR HONG KONG-CENTRIC NEWSLETTER HERE
