Cognac is commonly viewed as a warm, winter drink, primarily featured in classic cocktails like the Vieux Carré and Brandy Alexander. However, bartenders are increasingly showcasing its versatility as a refreshing ingredient to combat summer heat. Dan Nicolaescu, a bartender at Le Coucou in New York City, highlights his "Midsummer Magic" cocktail, designed to enhance the flavors of summer produce and pair perfectly with outdoor gatherings.

As Cognac’s appeal grows, so does its market—projected to increase from $14.97 billion in 2024 to $15.79 billion in 2025. By 2029, revenue is expected to reach approximately $19.79 billion, suggesting that Cognac cocktails will likely make regular appearances on menus year-round.

Here are six cocktails that highlight the refreshing potential of Cognac during the summer months:

Fleur de Feu

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz peach-infused Cognac VS
  • 1 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz honey syrup
  • 0.25 oz Licor 43
  • 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
  • 1.5 oz soda water
• Method: Shake all ingredients except the soda water with ice. Strain into a Collins glass, add soda, and garnish with mint.

Midsummer Magic

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Cognac VS
  • 0.75 oz Pineau des Charentes rouge
  • 0.5 oz strawberry syrup
  • 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Half an egg white
  • A spray of absinthe
• Method: Shake all but the absinthe with ice and strain into a glass. Spray with absinthe and garnish with a strawberry.

The Rémy Riviera Collins

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal
  • 2/3 oz lemon juice
  • 2/3 oz simple syrup
  • Club soda
• Method: Shake cognac, lemon juice, and syrup with ice. Strain into a highball glass and top with club soda. Garnish with a lemon wheel and cherry.

The Pear-Fect Spritz

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Belle de Brillet
  • 2 oz soda water
  • 3 oz dry sparkling wine
  • A squeeze of lemon
• Method: Combine in a wine glass filled with ice, and stir gently. Garnish with a lemon slice.

Southern Barbecue Spritz

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Cognac VS
  • 0.75 oz Granny Smith honey syrup
  • 0.5 oz Amontillado sherry
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 2 oz dry sparkling wine
  • 1 oz soda water
• Method: Shake all non-soda ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Top with sparkling wine and soda. Garnish with a lemon wheel and apple slice.

The Rémy Mojito

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 oz Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 1 oz sparkling water
• Method: Shake all ingredients except soda and strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water and garnish with mint.

These creations showcase how Cognac can be adapted into refreshing summer cocktails, perfect for any gathering.