Recipes 358

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to host an expanded stage of 48 nations, leading to 104 matches across North America. With many fans expected to follow the action from home, it’s the perfect time to explore exciting new cocktails inspired by the tournament.

This cocktail collection features 12 unique recipes that highlight spirits from various nations participating in the World Cup, including Scotland, Norway, the United States, France, Mexico, and Japan. Even nations that did not qualify find ways to celebrate the global event with inventive beverages.

Here’s a selection of easy-to-make cocktails to enjoy during game day:

Buchanita

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Buchanan’s 12-Year-Old DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky
• 5 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
• Fresh Pineapple Slice for Garnish

Method:Combine the whisky and pineapple juice in a shaker with ice, shake well, and strain into a lowball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a pineapple slice.

The World Caip

Ingredients:

• 1 fresh strawberry
• 1.5 oz Rota 48 Silver Cachaca
• 1.5 oz Passionfruit Pineapple Barmalade
• 0.5 oz Ancho Reyes Verde
• 0.75 oz Agave Syrup
• 3 Basil Leaves
• Garnish: Dragon fruit ball, basil leaf, Tajín

Method:Muddle the strawberry in a shaker, then add the cachaca, barmalade, Ancho Reyes, agave, and basil leaves along with ice. Shake for 20 seconds, rim a glass with Tajín, and strain the mixture over fresh ice. Garnish with a dragon fruit ball and a basil leaf.

Coupe of Gold – For a Crowd

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups Cointreau
• 1.5 cups Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp Ground Turmeric
• 0.5 cup Simple Syrup
• 3 cups The Botanist gin
• 29 Mint leaves

Method:Mix all ingredients in a punch bowl and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add large ice cubes and garnish with lemon wheels and mint leaves.

La Verde

Ingredients:

• 1.25 oz Tequila Don Julio 1942
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Giffard Cucumber Syrup
• 1 oz Coconut Water
• 2-3 oz Soda Water
• Cucumber for Garnish

Method:Muddle cucumber slices in a shaker, add the remaining ingredients (except soda), and shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice, top with soda water, and garnish with a cucumber ribbon.

Cazcanes El Alevado (The Elevated One) Golden Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cazcanes No.10 Blanco
• 0.35 oz Agave nectar
• 0.75–1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 0.15–0.25 oz Yellow Chartreuse
• 1 dash Orange Bitters
• 1 drop Saline Solution
• Expressed Orange Peel for garnish

Method:Build in a half-salted Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube. Express an orange peel above, garnish with a lemon wheel, and serve.

The Playmaker Paloma

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Espolòn Blanco
• 0.25 part Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 pinch Sea Salt
• 4 parts Grapefruit Soda

Method:Combine Espolòn, lime juice, and salt in a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with grapefruit soda and gently stir. Garnish with a lime wedge and grapefruit peel.

Toki Highball

Ingredients:

• 45 ml Toki Blended Japanese Whisky
• 3 parts Premium Soda Water
• Grapefruit slice or Lemon Peel for garnish

Method:Chill a glass with ice, add the whisky, and then the soda. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of grapefruit or lemon peel.

Free Healthcare

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Hennessy
• 0.5 oz Allspice Dram
• 0.75 oz Ginger Honey
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• Barspoon Sushi Vinegar

Method:Shake and strain over a large cube in a rocks glass, then spray with Brennevin Aquavit.

Flying Boat

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Boatyard Double Gin
• 1 oz Dubonnet Rouge
• 1 oz Amaro Nonino
• 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice

Method:Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon peel.

The Final Whistle

Ingredients:

• 2 oz ALB Vodka
• 1 cup Fresh Watermelon, cubed
• 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
• Fresh Mint Leaves
• Crushed Ice
• Sparkling Water (optional)

Method:Muddle watermelon and mint leaves in a shaker, add vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and ice. Shake well and strain over crushed ice. Optionally, top with sparkling water and garnish.

Pineapple Playmaker

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Wray & Nephew
• 0.5 oz Koko Kanu Coconut Rum
• 3.5 oz Fresh Pineapple Juice
• 0.7 oz Coconut Syrup or Cream
• Pinch of Salt

Method:Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Pour into a hurricane glass, garnished with an umbrella and a small pineapple chunk.

Palm Republic Palm-Loma

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Palm Republic Silver Rum
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 0.5 oz Agave Syrup
• 1.5 oz Club Soda
• 1 dash Angostura Bitters

Method:Shake all ingredients (except soda) with ice, strain into a Collins glass filled with ice, top with club soda and add a grapefruit wedge as garnish.

These cocktails promise to enhance the excitement of World Cup watch parties, providing a delicious taste of the tournament through every sip.

Cocktail pairing has evolved significantly, moving from a simple pre- or post-dinner format to a more integrated dining experience. Chefs and bartenders now explore combinations of food and cocktails much like they do with wine, emphasizing balance and contrast. Lynnette Marrero, an award-winning bartender and cofounder of the mixology competition Speed Rack, offers insights into the art of pairing cocktails with various cuisines.

Key Principles of Pairing

1. Contrast is Key: Marrero states that cocktails should complement dishes by creating contrasts rather than matching them directly. For example, salty foods pair well with sweet cocktails, and acidic cocktails can balance rich, fatty dishes.

2. Spirit Pairings: Choosing the right spirit is crucial. Gin, with its botanical flavors, must be paired carefully, with an eye to the specific seasonings of a dish. Citrus-forward gins, for instance, work well with a variety of foods, while bolder botanicals require more thoughtful combinations.

Unexpected Combinations

Marrero suggests some unique pairings:

• Prosciutto and melon with a Last Word cocktail (equal parts gin, lime juice, maraschino liqueur, and Chartreuse).
• Sushi is enhanced by a French 75, which includes gin or Cognac, fresh lemon juice, and sparkling wine.
• Fish and caviar pair excellently with agave-based cocktails.
• Dessert options include a rich chocolate dish with a smoky mezcal cocktail.

Breakfast and Lunch Pairings

Beyond the usual suspects like Bloody Marys, Marrero encourages creativity with cocktails at breakfast and lunch. Experimentation within traditional templates can lead to exciting combinations, such as using green juices instead of tomato juice in Marys.

Optimizing Cocktail Prep for Dinner Parties

For those hosting multicourse meals, Marrero advocates pre-batching cocktails. This approach allows for seamless entertaining. Cocktails like Martinis, Manhattans, and Negronis can be prepared in bulk and chilled, with fresh elements added right before serving.

Non-Alcoholic Options

The popularity of zero-proof cocktails is on the rise, offering complex flavor profiles comparable to alcoholic beverages. Marrero suggests using strong herbal teas to build intricate flavors in non-alcoholic cocktails.

For more detailed advice on pairing cocktails and food, as well as specific drink recommendations, explore Marrero’s expertise.

For further resources, check:

• Food & Wine

Whether you’ve chosen a premium bourbon or you’re working with something more standard, crafting a cocktail is always a great idea. Classic bourbon cocktails hold a timeless appeal; their simplicity allows the whiskey to shine while achieving a perfect balance with other ingredients. Here are eleven old-school bourbon cocktails that have stood the test of time.

1. Old Fashioned
   The Old Fashioned is a quintessential bourbon cocktail with origins dating back over 100 years. This drink combines bourbon, bitters, and sugar, served over ice. Traditionally, a sugar cube is muddled with bitters and a bit of water to dissolve, making it slightly sweeter. Its history traces back to the earliest cocktails, which were defined as spirit, sugar, water, and bitters, leading to the term "old-fashioned" by the late 1800s.

2. Boulevardier
   A Boulevardier is a bourbon-to-Negroni transformation. Instead of gin, it uses bourbon, making it rich and smooth. This cocktail mixes bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, served over ice, often garnished with an orange twist. The Boulevardier’s history goes back to the 1920s, attributed to Erskine Gwynne, who named it after his magazine.

3. Manhattan
   Held in high regard, the Manhattan is an iconic cocktail featuring bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Recognized for its simplicity, this drink celebrates the bourbon flavor. The first known Manhattan recipe emerged in 1882, highlighting its longevity in cocktail culture.

4. Whiskey Sour
   Often mistaken for a contemporary concoction, the Whiskey Sour’s roots extend over a century. This cocktail typically consists of bourbon, lemon juice, sugar, and bitters. Known for its balance of sweet and sour, bourbon adds a unique smoothness. The first mentions trace back to the 1860s.

5. Brown Derby
   A muted, yet refreshing cocktail, the Brown Derby offers a bright alternative with bourbon, grapefruit juice, and a sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Originating in the 1930s, it’s believed to be created in homage to a Hollywood restaurant brimming with celebrity patrons.

6. Fancy Free
   This lesser-known cocktail utilizes ingredients like bourbon, maraschino liqueur, and bitters. Its rise in popularity appears in a 1940s cocktail guide, evolving from an original recipe that was shaken and served in a sugar-rimmed glass.

7. Lion’s Tail
   The Lion’s Tail sets itself apart with allspice liqueur (pimento dram), which brings a spicy depth to the bourbon base. The cocktail features bourbon, allspice liqueur, lime juice, sugar syrup, and bitters. Its history is tied to a 1937 cocktail book, hinting at American origins during the Prohibition era.

8. Kentucky Colonel
   A two-ingredient cocktail that highlights bourbon, the Kentucky Colonel pairs it with Bénédictine for a herbal twist. The simplicity is noteworthy, as it thrives on high-quality bourbon. This drink first appeared in a 1914 bartender’s manual, showcasing its classic charm.

9. Mint Julep
   Famous in the southern U.S., the Mint Julep is a refreshing mix of bourbon, fresh mint, sugar syrup, and bitters. Its precise origins are blurred, though it can possibly be traced back to Persian roots. The first hints of its presentation in America were found in writings from the early 1800s.

10. Man O’ War
    A nod to the legendary racehorse, the Man O’ War cocktail melds bourbon with Triple Sec, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and sugar syrup. This fruity yet balanced drink emerged in the mid-1900s and reflects the era’s mixology creativity.

11. Whiskey Daisy
    The Whiskey Daisy is part of a family of drinks with roots in the 1800s. Characteristically composed of bourbon, lemon juice, and a sweetener, this cocktail typically incorporates an orange liqueur and is topped with soda water, giving it a lighter finish.

These cocktails, rooted in history and simplicity, maintain their appeal for both new and seasoned drinkers. Whether you mix them at home or order one at a bar, they promise a delightful experience steeped in tradition.

A well-known steakhouse chain, Logan’s Roadhouse, is planning to test THC-infused cocktails at selected locations in Texas. This initiative is set for a one-night bar social event on June 8, where the cocktails will be offered at a price of $9.99 each and will become part of the regular menu afterward.

The THC beverages contain five milligrams of THC made from a hemp-derived ingredient, allowing them to be sold legally in Texas where recreational marijuana is not yet legal. Guests aged 21 and older will have the option to sample all three drinks in a tasting flight for the same price.

The cocktails to be featured include:

• Scarlet Haze: A prickly pear cocktail with lemon and lime.
• Pineapple Express: A fruit mix of pineapple, orange juice, and grenadine.
• High Tide: A blend of pineapple and coconut flavors.

According to Shawn VanWinkle, VP of Marketing at Logan’s Roadhouse, the move reflects changing consumer preferences toward low-dose THC options as alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.

With a growing market for THC-infused drinks expected to reach $4 billion by 2028, Logan’s aims to capture part of this trend while focusing on its reputation for great food and hospitality. Notably, there will be a restriction of three cocktails per guest, and these drinks cannot be ordered alongside alcoholic beverages.

The chain operates over 115 locations in various states, with several in Texas cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and McAllen.

Americans are experiencing a significant shift in drinking habits, marked by a growing preference for canned cocktails, which are leading to quicker intoxication despite an overall decrease in consumption. The emergence of these ready-to-drink cocktails marks a departure from the past, as venues like Wrigley Field now offer a variety of options, including mai tais and margaritas, from brands like Cutwater.

The popularity of canned cocktails has surged, with nearly 11 billion servings consumed in 2025 alone. This rise can be attributed to the appeal of portable alcoholic beverages, capitalizing on consumer trends and the convenience of ready-made drinks. While US beer sales remain dominant, premixed cocktails have emerged as a bright spot for the alcohol industry, which has experienced declines in recent years.

Historically, liquor has been regulated more stringently than beer, but changes are underway. Four states have recently passed laws to allow the sale of canned cocktails in locations where beer is sold, spurred by liquor companies pushing for an easier access framework. Despite the health implications, with higher-alcohol versions selling well, Americans are gravitating towards these flavorful drinks as they seek cheaper alternatives amid rising consumer costs.

However, many consumers may be unaware of how potent these cocktails are, with instances of accidental binges becoming common. Posts on social media often reflect surprise at how quickly intoxicated individuals become after consuming these drinks, sometimes leading to serious health consequences. The design and packaging of these cocktails could mislead drinkers regarding their true alcohol content, especially for those accustomed to lighter beverages like seltzers.

As the trend continues, awareness of responsible drinking practices is crucial, especially for emerging consumers of these products.

Grapefruit has emerged as a popular ingredient in cocktails, bringing its distinctive tartness and refreshing quality to various drinks. Originating as a hybrid between sweet oranges and pomelo, grapefruit has made a significant impact on the cocktail scene since the 18th century.

As the temperature rises, grapefruit becomes an essential mixer, combining acidity and bitterness with a hint of sweetness. This citrus has proven to be versatile, pairing beautifully with spirits like tequila, gin, rum, mezcal, and bourbon. It adds complexity and brightness to classic and contemporary cocktails alike.

Here are some standout grapefruit cocktails to enjoy during the warmer months:

1. PalomaA quintessential tequila cocktail that fuses grapefruit with citrus notes and bubbles, the Paloma remains refreshing and easy to craft for summer gatherings. Serve well chilled for the best experience. Get the Recipe

2. Hemingway DaiquiriHonoring the famous writer, this variation incorporates rum, grapefruit, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. It boasts a vibrant flavor profile ideal for hot days. Get the Recipe

3. GreyhoundSimple yet effective, this cocktail highlights the interaction between vodka or gin and fresh grapefruit juice. Its minimalist approach shines a spotlight on grapefruit’s natural flavors. Get the Recipe

4. French BlondeWith floral and herbal nuances, this drink combines grapefruit with Lillet Blanc, gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon bitters for a sophisticated spin. Get the Recipe

5. Bicycle ThiefAn aperitivo-style drink, the Bicycle Thief combines grapefruit with other bittersweet ingredients for a refreshing pre-dinner sipper. Get the Recipe

6. Brown DerbyThis classic cocktail mixes bourbon with grapefruit juice and honey syrup, yielding a well-balanced drink that embraces fresh grapefruit’s brightness. Get the Recipe

7. Salty DogEnhancing the Greyhound with a salty rim, this cocktail contrasts salinity with the grapefruit’s tang, presenting a refreshing and enjoyable drink. Get the Recipe

8. SiestaCombining tequila, grapefruit, and aperitivo flavors, this drink balances brightness with herbal notes, making it perfect for summer. Get the Recipe

9. Mezcal PalomaA twist on the Paloma, this cocktail incorporates mezcal for a smoky dimension while still retaining the refreshing quality of grapefruit. Get the Recipe

10. UffiziThis cocktail mixes grapefruit juice with Bonal Gentiane-Quina and Cocchi Americano, making it suitable for pre-dinner occasions with its complex balance of flavors. Get the Recipe

11. Jet PilotPart of the tiki culture, the Jet Pilot layers rum with spices and citrus to create a drink with impressive depth, enhanced by grapefruit’s brightness. Get the Recipe

These recipes exemplify grapefruit’s versatility and brightness, offering refreshing options for any summer gathering.

Adding salt to cocktails is becoming a popular trend among bartenders, who argue that it enhances flavor in much the same way it does in cooking. From rimming glasses with flavored salts to using saline solutions, salt offers depth and brightness to various spirits.

Renowned mixologists, like Mariena Mercer Boarini of Wynn North America, emphasize how salt can elevate a drink’s profile. For instance, creative salt blends that include ingredients such as cilantro and lemon can complement specific cocktails. A saline solution, made from one part salt to four parts water, provides a more consistent and effective way to season drinks without the risk of sinking to the bottom as granular salt does.

Salt affects cocktails in several ways: it can sharpen citrus flavors, reduce bitterness, and improve mouthfeel. This makes it a versatile tool in crafting drinks like Margaritas and Negronis. According to veteran bartender Ivy Mix, the incorporation of salt can transform an ordinary cocktail into something truly special, enhancing flavors that might otherwise be overshadowed.

Additionally, some spirits, such as Fishers Gin, are crafted with sea salt-infused botanicals, further reflecting the trend toward salinity in the beverage industry.

For home bartenders hesitant to use salt, it’s recommended to start small. A few drops of saline solution in a cocktail can dramatically improve its taste without making it overly savory. By experimenting with this underappreciated ingredient, anyone can achieve cocktail-bar level drinks from the comfort of their own home.

With Memorial Day Weekend marking the unofficial start of summer, it’s essential to have refreshing cocktails on hand for your celebrations. Here’s a selection of delightful summer cocktail recipes featuring a variety of spirits, perfect for parties, barbecues, or any sunny gathering.

Black-Eyed Rye

This cocktail features Sagamore Small Batch Rye Whiskey, known for its balanced profile.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz. Sagamore Small Batch Rye Whiskey
  • 0.5 oz. lime juice
  • 1 oz. blackberry syrup (made by mixing equal parts water, sugar, and blackberries)
  • 3 oz. ginger beer
  • Mint leaves or dehydrated lime for garnish

• Instructions:

  • Shake the whiskey, lime juice, and blackberry syrup with ice.
  • Strain into a highball glass and top with ginger beer.
  • Garnish with mint or lime.

The Pear-fect Hound

An elegant cocktail featuring Hera the Dog Vodka, which supports animal shelters.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. Hera The Dog Vodka
  • 2 oz. pear nectar
  • 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. simple syrup

• Instructions:

  • Shake all ingredients with ice.
  • Strain into a martini or coupe glass and garnish with fresh pear or lemon.

Pineapple Rickey

A refreshing gin-based cocktail featuring Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin Brazilian Pineapple.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz. Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin Brazilian Pineapple
  • 0.5 oz. lime juice
  • 0.75 oz. pineapple juice
  • Soda water for topping

• Instructions:

  • Combine ingredients in a highball glass over ice.
  • Top with soda water and garnish with pineapple.

Taffer’s Summer Punch

A fruity punch made with Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon
  • 1 oz. fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz. pineapple juice
  • 2 oz. fresh orange juice
  • Splash of grenadine

• Instructions:

  • Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass over ice.
  • Garnish with a pineapple wedge and Maraschino cherry.

Strawberry Black Pepper Smash

A delightful drink that layers flavors using fresh strawberries and Tequila Corralejo.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz. Tequila Corralejo Silver
  • 2-3 fresh strawberries, hulled
  • 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. agave syrup
  • Fresh black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 oz. soda water (optional)

• Instructions:

  • Muddle the strawberries in a shaker.
  • Add the rest of the ingredients and shake well.
  • Strain into a rocks glass and garnish.

Bellini Martini

A charming cocktail great for summer brunches.

• Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz. Tito’s Vodka
  • 0.5 oz. basil eau de vie (or basil-infused liqueur)
  • 1 oz. fresh peach purée
  • 0.25 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 2 oz. chilled Prosecco

• Instructions:

  • Chill a glass and mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
  • Strain into the chilled glass and top with Prosecco.
  • Garnish with a peach slice or basil leaf.

Summer Send-Off Punch

A citrusy punch using Bombay Sapphire, perfect for gatherings.

• Ingredients:

  • 0.75 part Bombay Sapphire
  • 0.25 part St-Germain
  • 0.5 part white vermouth
  • 4 parts ginger ale
  • Lime, mint, and ginger to garnish

• Instructions:

  • Combine the spirits and ginger ale in a bowl.
  • Garnish with lime slices and mint, and serve over ice.

Patchwork

A cocktail inspired by the National Quilt Museum in Kentucky, blending fruit and spirits beautifully.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 fresh strawberries
  • 3-4 basil leaves
  • 1 oz. Cognac
  • 1 oz. Mezcal
  • 0.75 oz. lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. Cointreau
  • 0.5 oz. simple syrup

• Instructions:

  • Muddle strawberries and basil in a shaker.
  • Add the remaining ingredients and shake.
  • Strain over an ice cube and garnish with a basil leaf.

Ponche Caballero

This Mexican-inspired cocktail incorporates tamarind and pineapple.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz. Tequila Partida Blanco
  • 1.5 oz. tamarind nectar
  • 1.5 oz. pineapple juice
  • 0.5 oz. agave nectar
  • 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Instructions:

  • Shake and strain into a rocks glass over ice.
  • Garnish with fresh pineapple.

Brugal French 88

A light and refreshing cocktail to welcome guests at summer brunches.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 oz. Brugal 1888 Rum
  • 0.5 oz. elderflower liqueur
  • 0.5 oz. fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 oz. chamomile tea syrup
  • 3 oz. Prosecco

• Instructions:

  • Shake all ingredients, strain into a chilled flute, and top with Prosecco.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist.

These cocktail recipes will elevate your summer gatherings and provide delicious refreshment throughout the season. Enjoy responsibly!

Gen X has embraced the Carry Bradshaw Cosmos, while jet-setting millennials have made the Aperol Spritz their drink of choice. However, Baby Boomers remain loyal to a range of classic cocktails, many of which gained popularity during the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, as they began making their mark in bars across America. Here’s a look at some of their favorite timeless libations.

White Lady

This cocktail, first popularized in the 1930s by bartender Harry Craddock, combines two parts London dry gin, one part triple sec, and one part lemon juice, often enhanced with sugar syrup and garnished with egg foam.

Grasshopper

A true classic since the Prohibition era, the Grasshopper rose to fame in the ’70s and ’80s in New Orleans. This delightful mix of crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream makes for a refreshing dessert cocktail.

Harvey Wallbanger

Originating in the 1950s but peaking in the ’70s, the Harvey Wallbanger is a simple mix of vodka and orange juice, topped with a splash of herbal Galliano L’Authentico. It’s commonly garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

Bellini

Created by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1945, the Bellini is made from peach puree and prosecco. While the original recipe remains a favorite, modern variations can include lemon juice or even different types of fruit.

Dry Vodka Martini

This classic drink rose to prominence during the 1960s and continues to be a staple, particularly for those who prefer a lighter, cleaner drink with a smooth finish.

Old Fashioned

Tracing its roots back to the early 1800s, this cocktail has withstood the test of time. It consists of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and garnished with citrus peel, showcasing a perfect blend of bitter and sweet.

Gimlet

The Gimlet has a charming maritime history, traditionally made with gin and lime juice. Its simplicity and refreshing taste make it a continually popular choice.

Gin and Tonic

Originating in the British colonies to combat malaria, this drink combines gin with tonic water. Its refreshing, slightly bitter flavor profile has kept it a favorite across generations.

Margarita

The Margarita surged in popularity in the ’70s, particularly among Baby Boomers, combining tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, often served in a salt-rimmed glass.

Sidecar

With over a century of history, the Sidecar blends cognac, lemon juice, and orange liqueur, sometimes garnished with a sugared rim and an orange slice for added sweetness.

Manhattan

Dating back to the 1882, the Manhattan brings together whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, delivering a sophisticated balance of flavors that continues to delight.

7&7

This highball drink gained popularity in the 1970s, combining Seagram’s 7 Crown whiskey with 7UP, and remains a go-to choice for many Baby Boomers.

Gin Fizz

A lively cocktail that features gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda, the Gin Fizz has a rich history as one of the classic fizzy drinks.

Mint Julep

Known as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, this quintessential Southern cocktail mixes bourbon, sugar, and mint, often served in a chilled metal cup.

Negroni

Featuring equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth, the Negroni has enjoyed immense popularity, especially among the Baby Boomer generation, appreciated for its bittersweet balance.

These cocktails not only reflect a nostalgic preference but also showcase the enduring appeal of classic drinks that have shaped the cocktail landscape.

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer, drawing many Americans to embark on long trips, take advantage of holiday deals, and host gatherings. These celebrations typically include barbecue favorites and a chance to experiment with cocktails that embody the refreshing vibes of the season, featuring ingredients like lemonade, watermelon, and other fruits.

There’s no specific spirit tied to Memorial Day, allowing for a diverse range of cocktails made with various liquors such as mezcal, vodka, Scotch, rum, tequila, and gin. Here’s a curated list of 16 cocktails that are perfect for enjoying over the Memorial Day holiday weekend:

Tomatini

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe Campari tomato (about ½ cup), quartered
• 1 ½ oz Ketel One Vodka
• ¹/₃ oz white balsamic vinegar
• Pinch of salt and black pepper
• 1 bar spoon of simple syrup
• Garnish: Black pepper and a cherry tomato

Method: Muddle the tomato in a shaker, add the remaining ingredients with ice, shake, and double strain into a martini glass. Garnish with black pepper and a cherry tomato.

Wild Turkey Paper Plane

Ingredients:

• ¾ part Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
• ¾ part fresh lemon juice
• ¾ part Amaro Averna
• ¾ part Aperol

Method: Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, and strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Lemon Wedge

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Dewar’s 12 Year Old
• 2 oz lemonade
• 3 oz club soda

Method: Mix Dewar’s and lemonade in a highball glass over ice, top with club soda, and stir. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Roasted Strawberry Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Cointreau
• 2 oz Mezcal
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz roasted strawberry puree

Method: Blend roasted strawberries, add to shaker with other ingredients, shake, and strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with lime and a roasted strawberry.

Piña Spritz

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Buchanan’s Pineapple
• 5 oz club soda
• 1 oz coconut water
• Garnish: Tajín rim and pineapple half moon

Method: Rim glass with Tajín, fill with ice, mix in Buchanan’s and coconut water, top with soda water, and garnish with a pineapple slice.

Orange Creamsicle

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream
• 0.75 oz orange liqueur
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 0.75 cup ice
• Garnish: Orange wedge

Method: Blend all ingredients until smooth, pour into a glass, and garnish with an orange wedge.

Royal Blackberry Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Crown Royal Blackberry
• 6 oz lemonade
• Garnish: Lemon and blackberry

Method: Combine Crown Royal and lemonade in a highball glass filled with ice. Stir and garnish with lemon and blackberries.

Patrón 100 Highball

Ingredients:

• 1.25 oz PATRÓN 100 Tequila
• 0.5 oz honey syrup
• 0.5 oz passion fruit puree
• 0.75 oz mandarin juice
• Dashes of saline and cardamom bitters

Method: Shake all ingredients and top with soda in a Collins glass with ice.

Gray Whale Surfrider Splash Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Gray Whale Vodka
• 2 oz lemonade
• 2 oz sparkling water

Method: Combine all ingredients in a Collins glass filled with ice and stir gently. Garnish with lemon and mint.

Smoky Paloma

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Undone No. 4 Not Mezcal
• 3 oz Thomas Henry Pink Grapefruit
• 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
• Pinch of smoked salt
• Garnish: Grapefruit wheel

Method: Mix ingredients over ice in a glass and garnish with grapefruit.

Avaline Spiced Pear Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle Avaline red wine
• 2 Bartlett pears, sliced
• 2 oranges, sliced
• 6 cinnamon sticks
• 2 cups pear juice
• 4 tbsp orange liqueur

Method: Combine all ingredients in a pitcher, refrigerate to blend flavors, and serve over ice.

Take Me Away

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Espolòn Tequila Añejo
• 0.5 oz Ancho Reyes Original Chile Liqueur
• 0.25 oz banana liqueur
• Pinch of salt
• 1 drop of tiki bitters

Method: Stir ingredients with ice, strain into a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with orange peel.

Rosa Regale Sparkling Rosé Grapefruit Rosé Spritz

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Rosa Regale Sparkling Rosé
• 1 oz orange liqueur
• 0.5 oz grapefruit juice
• 2 oz club soda

Method: Shake all but the sparkling rosé with ice, strain over ice, and top with the sparkling rosé. Garnish with mint and orange peel.

Lyre’s Amalfi Spritz

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Lyre’s Italian Spritz
• 3 oz Lyres Classico

Method: Stir ingredients in a glass filled with ice, garnishing with an orange slice.

McQueen Cucumber Refresher

Ingredients:

• 2 oz McQueen and the Violet Fog Ultraviolet Gin
• Soda water
• 2-3 cucumber slices
• Mint and basil

Method: Muddle cucumber, mint, and basil, add ice and gin, shake, and strain. Top with soda and garnish.

Bumbu Banger

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bumbu Original
• 2 oz strawberry puree
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• Ginger ale
• Lime

Method: Shake and strain into a glass over ice, top with ginger ale, and garnish with lime.

These cocktails are designed to elevate your Memorial Day celebrations, incorporating fresh ingredients and diverse flavors to create unforgettable summer sips.