There’s nothing quite like sitting in the sunshine sipping a refreshing cocktail on a summer’s day. When all else fails, you can’t beat a gin and tonic or pimms and lemonade for a go-to summer tipple, but with growing demand and competition, every bar should give their menu and update with some new seasonal drinks! If you’re looking to try something new in your bar or at home, check out these four delicious cocktail recipes to try out this summer.
Watermelon Martini
Sweet, summery and smooth, this fruity twist on a martini is the perfect cocktail to try out in your bar. For this, you’ll need to blend together some watermelon slices with a dash of simple syrup, and transfer the mixture into empty ice trays to freeze for around four hours. Once the watermelon has frozen into cubes, combine with some more simple syrup, lemon juice, vodka and melon liqueur, and blend until you reach a smooth consistency.
Champagne Mojito
You don’t have to be a fancy pants to enjoy this cocktail, but it sure helps. Add a sophisticated twist to a classic cocktail with the champagne mojito. Follow the usual mojito recipe for this by mixing fresh mint leaves, thai basil, sugar and lime wedges in a small glass. Pour your rum and minty mixture into a pitcher and combine with lots of ice. For recipes that involve lots of ice, commercial ice makers come in extra handy, and are a summer must have for any bar! Add some more ice to your glasses and pour in the mixture, topping with champagne or cava and garnishing with some fresh mint for a refreshing summer treat.
Blackberry Mint Julep
Another delicious sweet and minty beverage, this blackberry mint julep will have you dreaming of summer all year long. For this recipe, you’ll need to start by making a blackberry puree by blending blackberries and water until smooth, and then passing the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to discard of seeds and pulp. In a glass, muddle mint leaves and simple syrup together, add your choice of bourbon along with the blackberry puree, stir to combine and add plenty of crushed ice. Once ready, garnish with a mint leaf and a handful of blackberries for a cocktail that almost looks too good to drink!
Tequila Sangria
Sangria is an all-time summer favourite, and with the addition of tequila, this drink is made even more special! Start by adding your choice of fruit to an empty glass – we’d suggest blackberries, lime wedges and pineapple slices for a tasty fruit infusion. After that, add your tequila, some elderflower flavoured liquor, two tablespoons of simple syrup, pineapple juice and a splash of orange juice. Finish the drink off with some ice and a dash or two of red wine, and you’ll be left with a colourful treat your guests will love.