Tailgating season is here.

Football fans are primed for gametime, and working on their favorite recipes for chili or wings. But while planning their dishes and transporting all that food, it’s also time to work on cocktails perfect for the occasion.

Bleacher Tea at Mordecai in Chicago.

At Mordecai in Chicago, the Bleacher Tea features bourbon, Montenegro, Earl Grey, lemon, white balsamic shrub, and sassafras. “The name Bleacher Tea is a nod to the bleachers at Wrigley Field, located right across from Mordecai in Chicago. This bourbon cocktail is delightfully fizzy, complex, and refreshing with earthy notes thanks to the white balsamic shrub and sassafras intending to inspire memories associated with baseball,” said Rena Long, Bar Manager at Mordecai.

Breakfast of Champions at Bar Stillwell at Loews Kansas City.

At Bar Stillwell at Loews Kansas City, this cocktail is made with Bloody Mary mix, Modelo Especial, Tajin rim and a fresh lemon. The cocktail was created by bartender and Chiefs fan, Anne Mercer, who wanted to make something in the classic Chiefs red and the perfect tailgate drink. “What a great way to start the season, and who doesn’t want to be a champion? Go Chiefs!” said Mercer.

Ray’s Lake Hour Frozen Rita at Ray’s Bar in New York City.

Ray’s Bar in New York City teamed up with Lake Hour, the canned cocktail brand by actor Wyatt Russell and producer Richard Peete to create Ray’s Lake Hour Frozen Rita. This cocktail is perfect for tailgating and pairs Lake Hour with a frozen mezcal margarita. “The Lake Hour-a-Rita at Ray’s in New York City is all about sharing good times. With its icy punch and bold flavor, it’s a hit. Special thanks to Carlos and Anna for the inspiration, Sweeney for the flavor combos (like the smoky Mezcal Mango Margarita and Watermelon Cucumber Lake Hour combo), Jack & Cousin Tommy for the vibes and Ben, Dylan & co. for serving them frosty. Matt Charles & Wyatt Russell are still tied for most Lake Hour-a-Rita’s drank in one night,” said Richard Peete, co-founder of Lake Hour.

Spiced Cherry Rum Runner at Rusty’s Lakeside Pub in Glasgow, Kentucky.

At Rusty’s Lakeside Pub in Glasgow, Kentucky, this cocktail is made with dark rum and fresh lime blended with Make & Muddle’s Spiced Cherry Vanilla and seltzer. “Cherry and lime go together like peanut butter and jelly! Adding rum to the mix takes this from a cocktail to a party!” said Jennifer Brian of Make & Muddle.

El Diablo at St. Paul Grill in St. Paul, Minnesota.

At St. Paul Grill in St. Paul, Minnesota, this cocktail is made with Codigo Tequila Blanco, Vida Mezcal, ginger syrup, Jamaican bitters, club soda, Creme de Cassis Float, and flamed rosemary garnish. “Get ready to elevate your tailgating game with a drink that’s as bold as your team spirit! This sweet, smoky highball, crafted with a winning combination of Tequila and Mezcal, is the perfect companion for those pre-game celebrations. The ginger and citrus add a refreshing kick that will keep you coming back for more. As you sip, the flavors build, just like the excitement before kickoff, leaving you with a smoky, fiery, yet sweet finish that’s as satisfying as a game-winning touchdown. Cheers to a drink that scores big at your next tailgate!” said Jacob Zimmerman, bartender.

Lion’s Tail at St. Paul Grill in St. Paul.

Also at St. Paul Grill in St. Paul, this cocktail is made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, allspice, lime juice, Luxardo liqueur, Angostura Bitters, and flamed cinnamon stick garnish. “Add a touch of nostalgia to your tailgate with this savory cocktail, a timeless classic that’s evolved from its Prohibition-era roots. With a slightly burnt cinnamon stick, it brings back memories of holidays at Grandma’s house, where the flavors of Christmas and Thanksgiving filled the air. This drink isn’t just about savoring the moment; it’s about reliving those warm, festive gatherings right at your tailgate. Perfect for sharing with friends before the big game, it’s a cocktail that blends tradition with tailgating in the most delicious way,” said Wesley Winfield, bartender.

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