Recipes 337

Warm weather is approaching, making it the perfect time to enjoy refreshing cocktails that embrace the spirit of summer. With vacation plans getting underway, a common question arises: what will be the go-to cocktail for the season? The answer lies in celebrating timeless classics that are both affordable and easy to mix.

Here are 15 three-ingredient cocktails that promise to transport you straight to the beach with their delicious flavors:

1. Negroni
   A classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Its aromatic and bittersweet profile makes it ideal for sunset sipping.

2. Aperol Spritz
   This vibrant drink combines prosecco, sparkling water, and Aperol (3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part sparkling water) for a refreshing summertime beverage, often garnished with an orange slice.

3. Sgroppino
   A delightful mix of lemon sorbet, vodka, and prosecco, resulting in a creamy cocktail that’s perfect for cooling down after a hot day.

4. Ranch Water
   A simple concoction of blanco tequila, sparkling water, and lime juice. It’s a light and invigorating drink, making it a favorite in Western Texas.

5. Margarita
   The quintessential beach drink, this cocktail consists of tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec, served in a salt-rimmed glass for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

6. Gimlet
   A delightful mix of gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. This cocktail’s refreshing taste is perfect for enjoying while lounging in the sun.

7. Paloma
   This Mexican favorite combines tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda, yielding a light, refreshing flavor that’s a lovely alternative to the margarita.

8. Screwdriver
   A classic blend of vodka and orange juice, this cocktail is smooth and simple, making it perfect for any beach day.

9. Hugo Spritz
   A floral twist on the Aperol spritz, made with elderflower cordial, prosecco, and lime juice, garnished with mint for a refreshing sip.

10. Americano
    This drink combines Campari and sweet vermouth topped with soda water, offering a refreshing beverage with bitter and herbal notes.

11. Japanese Whiskey Highball
    A bubbly mix of Japanese whiskey and soda water. This light and crisp drink is well-suited for a summer day at the coast.

12. Caipirinha
    Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, served over crushed ice. It’s an ideal drink for sunny beach days.

13. Moscow Mule
    Served in a copper mug, this cocktail of vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer is refreshing and has a delightful zing.

14. Lillet Spritz
    A combination of Lillet Blanc, soda water, and fresh fruit, this spritz is light, crisp, and perfect for a day of relaxation.

15. El Diablo
    A tequila-based highball mixed with crème de cassis and ginger beer, providing a sweet and tangy flavor with a refreshing finish.

These cocktails are not only easy to prepare, but they also reflect the nostalgia of classic drinks that have stood the test of time. Enjoy making these at home and lift your spirits as the weather warms up!

The Algarve region in southern Portugal, famed for its picturesque golf courses, also emerges as a haven for food and nature enthusiasts. At the heart of this destination in Vilamoura lies the Domes Lake Algarve resort, renowned for a unique cocktail bar concept that seamlessly intertwines cocktail culture with the natural environment.

The resort invites guests to explore the surrounding areas filled with rich history and vibrant markets, while offering four restaurants and two bars that showcase diverse culinary experiences. From traditional Portuguese seafood to modern Italian dishes curated by Michelin-starred chef Olivier da Costa, the resort delights every palate. Additionally, its proximity to Praia de Falesia and stunning marinas enhances the experience with breathtaking views.

A standout feature of Domes Lake Algarve is The Migratory Bar, conceptualized by Dimitris Roussopoulos, the director of food and beverage. This innovative bar presents a cocktail menu inspired by the migratory birds that visit the locale throughout the year, creating an engaging narrative that connects drinkers with their surroundings. The bar’s hardcover menu is adorned with illustrations of the birds, detailing their migration and the ingredients used in the cocktails.

The cocktails are crafted around the essence of each bird’s migration journey. For instance, the American Golden Plover cocktail features mezcal and bourbon, symbolizing the depth of the bird’s travels. In designing these cocktails, Roussopoulos emphasizes storytelling and the emotional resonance of migration rather than just replicating flavors literally.

Guests are encouraged to interact with the crafted experience, exploring the rich biodiversity of the lake and enhancing their overall luxury experience. Seasonality plays a pivotal role, as the cocktail menu adapts to the time of year, showcasing local ingredients like figs, olives, and almonds, thereby fostering appreciation for the region’s natural bounty.

The resort additionally promotes birdwatching, connecting guests to the vibrant local ecosystem while enriching their cocktail drinking experience. Guided excursions and informative trails around the lake enable visitors to learn more about the birds they are drinking to honor. After a birdwatching tour, guests can unwind at the poolside bar with a traditional Amarguinha drink, offering a final touch to their immersive experience.

As guests sip on creative cocktails inspired by nature, they build meaningful connections with both the local environment and the stories behind each drink, making their time at the Domes Lake Algarve an unforgettable blend of culture, taste, and setting.

A new trend is emerging in the cocktail scene, blurring the lines between wine and long-held perceptions of traditional mixed drinks. Wine cocktails, which combine various wines with other ingredients, have seen significant growth, with sales soaring over 30% to reach $1.1 billion as of late 2025. This places wine cocktails solidly in third place behind table wine and sparkling wine in terms of industry sales.

While the concept of mixing cocktails with wine isn’t brand new, the current focus is on using wines—be they sparkling, white, or red—as the main component of these drinks rather than as mere accents. This newfound approach is appealing to consumers due to its flavor profile and lower alcohol content compared to traditional cocktails.

Thomas Stevens, beverage director at Fearless Restaurants, points out that the rising demand for lower-ABV cocktails and a more relaxed attitude towards wine consumption are influencing this trend. Wine cocktails provide an approachable option that complements social settings like brunch while pairing well with various foods.

Many establishments are creatively crafting these drinks to ensure a sense of celebration and sophistication. For instance, the Shou Sugi Ban House in Water Mill, New York, features a signature cocktail called Summer Rain, made with Albariño and fresh ingredients like aloe vera juice and green tea syrup. This focus on freshness and intentionality resonates with consumers looking for delightful yet mindful drinking experiences.

Historically, wine has played a role in cocktails, with classics like the New York sour and the French 75 showcasing wine as a fundamental ingredient. The practice traces back to ancient Greek and Roman times, evolving significantly in the 19th century to mask poorly made spirits. Today, wine cocktails have matured into sophisticated drinks highlighting the grape’s essence and offering unique takes across different venues.

The key to making successful wine cocktails lies in creating the perfect balance of flavors from wine and complementary ingredients. Successful combinations enhance the natural qualities of the wine, providing a full-bodied drink without overpowering it. For those looking to craft wine cocktails at home, simplicity and balance are crucial. It’s essential to choose a wine you enjoy, and build the drink around its acidity, dryness, and flavors.

In summary, wine cocktails are not just a fleeting trend but a sophisticated addition to the cocktail culture that appeals to a wide audience. As they continue to rise in popularity, they highlight the versatility of wine in social drinking spaces, undoubtedly securing a place for wine cocktails in contemporary beverage enjoyment.

Applebee’s has launched a new lineup of cocktails called "Still Together Sips," created in collaboration with hip-hop legends Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. This partnership features the duo’s premium spirit, Still G.I.N., and makes its debut at Applebee’s locations across the country for a limited time.

The cocktail collection includes two drinks: the $7 "Young, Wild & Free Fruit Punch" and the $10 "Rollin’ on the Beach." The former is a sweet, fruity concoction made with grenadine, lemon sour, and pineapple, while the latter consists of peach schnapps, prickly pear, and a blend of orange and cranberry juices, served tableside in a chilled shaker tin for a unique experience. Each drink is garnished with collectible temporary tattoos, reinforcing the theme of celebrating real friendships.

Still G.I.N., the spirit used in these cocktails, was launched in late 2024 and is distinguished by its smoother flavor profile compared to traditional gins, featuring notes of tangerine, jasmine, and coriander. It has received accolades, including a Master medal at the 2025 Gin Masters Awards.

This collaboration highlights Applebee’s strategy of partnering with high-profile celebrities in the beverage industry, following previous partnerships with other celebrity spirits. The "Still Together Sips" are available for dine-in customers while supplies last, providing fans of celebrity drinks a fresh new cocktail choice at their favorite casual dining restaurant.

IOWA CITY — The newly opened French lounge, Claude, invites patrons to experience a blend of curated cocktails, distinctive French cuisine, and an ambiance of elegance that pays homage to nostalgia. Launched in the Northside neighborhood on January 10, Claude offers a refreshing addition to Iowa City’s dining scene, highlighted by its stylish atmosphere, reminiscent of early 20th-century French bars.

Designed by former Vogue fashion stylist Adélaïde Subtil and ear, nose, and throat surgeon Dr. Thomas Heineman, Claude aims to ignite a sense of conviviality, encouraging patrons to linger over conversation and small bites amid vintage decor and dim lighting. The intimate 28-seat lounge features plush velvet couches and an array of small tables, fostering a social environment where strangers can become friends.

Culinary and Cocktail Offerings

Claude’s menu showcases French small plates, inspired by the concept of apéritif dinatoire — akin to Spanish tapas. Guests can delight in a range of offerings, from radish carpaccio and tapenade tartines to country pork terrine. The sophisticated yet approachable fare is served on vintage plates, enhancing the experience with a touch of authenticity.

Complementing the dining experience is an expertly crafted drink menu, designed by former Rodina staffer David Basinger. The menu features both classic cocktails and innovative new creations, with highlights including the Le Fizz Parfait and Grand-Dad’s Cardigan. Additionally, the lounge boasts one of Iowa’s most extensive champagne selections, showcasing bottles from esteemed French producers, including the notable Doyard, an established label with nearly 350 years of history.

The Lounge Experience

Claude occupies a historic building dating back to the 1870s, recognized for its original storefront, which adds a unique charm to the venue. With an aesthetic that merges vintage and modern influences, the lounge captures a relaxed yet vibrant energy. Accessories like framed D-Day newspaper clippings and a 1960s McIntosh sound system playing jazz create an atmosphere akin to attending a friend’s gathering in their elegantly decorated living room.

As the owners envision the lounge’s future, they plan to host special events featuring rotating chefs, aiming to deepen community engagement while introducing new flavors and perspectives into Iowa City’s gastronomic scene.

For those seeking a sophisticated yet convivial dining experience, Claude promises to deliver quality cocktails and memorable culinary experiences that invite patrons to explore the essence of French culture right in the heart of Iowa City.

Visit Claude:

• Address: 215 N. Linn St., Iowa City
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 3 PM – 12 AM
• Website: claudeic.com

Rich Marriott, King 5 Meteorologist, enjoys concocting cocktails inspired by countries participating in the Olympic Games. This segment features three delightful drinks hailing from Peru, Kenya, and Italy.

The first cocktail is the Pisco Sour, which Marriott first encountered during his graduate studies at the University of Washington. The cocktail carries a debated heritage, claimed by both Peru and Chile. Generally agreed to have originated in Lima, Peru, in the early 1900s, the Pisco Sour was crafted by an American bartender who replaced whiskey with Pisco, a local grape brandy. The modern recipe features pisco, lime juice, sugar, and egg white to create a frothy top, enhanced by a few drops of bitters.

Next up is the Dawa, meaning "medicine" in Swahili. Created in Nairobi in the early 1980s, this cocktail is often associated with safari culture, typically prepared fresh by a “Dawa Man.” It resembles the Brazilian Caipirinha, using honey instead of sugar and vodka instead of cachaça. A unique feature is its wooden “Dawa stick,” used to mix the honey and lime within the drink.

Lastly, Marriott presents the Negroni, a classic Italian cocktail believed to have been invented in Florence in 1919. County Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his usual Americano, which led to the enduring Negroni made from equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari.

Cocktail Recipes

Pisco Sour

Ingredients (1 serving)

• 2 oz (60 ml) Pisco (preferably Peruvian)
• 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
• ¾–1 oz (22–30 ml) simple syrup (to taste)
• 1 fresh egg white
• Ice
• 2–3 drops aromatic bitters (such as Angostura)

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously without ice for 10–15 seconds to build foam.
2. Add ice and shake again for another 10–15 seconds until chilled.
3. Double strain into a chilled glass and garnish with bitters.

Kenyan Style Dawa

Ingredients (1 serving)

• 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
• 1 fresh lime
• 1–2 tablespoons honey (to taste)
• Crushed or cubed ice

Instructions:

1. Cut lime into wedges and place in a rocks glass.
2. Add honey and muddle gently to release lime juice and dissolve honey.
3. Fill glass with ice, pour vodka over, and mix with a wooden Dawa stick to blend.

Negroni

Ingredients (1 serving)

• 1 oz (30 ml) gin
• 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
• 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
• Ice
• Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass filled with ice, stir together gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari for 20–25 seconds.
2. Strain into a rocks glass over ice.
3. Garnish with an orange peel, twisting over the glass to release oils.

It seems like king cake gets all the attention this time of year, but Carnival-inspired cocktails are an equally delicious delight — for those 21 and older — and nearly as ubiquitous across New Orleans. Carnival is about excess, and our Mardi Gras forefathers encouraged festivity through both feasting and imbibing.

From daiquiris sold by the half-gallon to sophisticated concoctions crafted by expert mixologists, New Orleans offers a vibrant array of purple, green, and gold options. Neal Bodenheimer, founder of the award-winning Cure cocktail bar, reflects on the uniqueness of this season’s offerings: "It’s a short Carnival season this year, and it seems like everyone has a Mardi Gras cocktail, and the fun thing is they are all different."

Here’s a list of some standout Mardi Gras cocktails for the season:

Cure

Cure continues its tradition of crafting classic cocktails with an innovative seasonal menu. The standout is the Ojen Cocktail, featuring the sweet Spanish liqueur with Peychaud’s bitters, a favorite among Rex parade-goers — known for its supposed good luck.

Four Seasons

Downtown at the Four Seasons Hotel, guests can indulge in a special Krewe of Cocktails menu. Notable options include the purple Mardi Gras Mambo at Chemin à la Mer, the Ojen at the Chandelier Bar, and the refreshing Masquerade at Miss River. Patrons who sample all three are rewarded with a miniature king cake.

Gris-Gris

At Gris-Gris, the bar’s King Cake Daiquiri channels Carnival spirit into a vibrant drink, boasting flavors of brioche-infused spiced rum and a blend of cream liqueurs. Guests can even order larger half-gallon versions for gatherings.

Cane & Table

A tiki-inspired bar, Cane & Table offers a playful Parade Tracker cocktail menu, including creative options like horchata-infused whiskey jello shots and a turmeric gin drink dubbed Ash Wednesday, aimed at preventing hangovers.

Avegno

This elegant spot presents two visually appealing cocktails: Madame X Mambo, blending king cake flavors with vodka and lime, and the Sidewalk Side Espresso Martini with rum and espresso, perfect for late-night festivities.

The Bower

With a robust Mardi Gras menu, The Bower features drinks like Dancing in the Street, a combination of vodka, tequila, apple, and lemon, as well as the Knife in the Box, a frozen concoction with spiced rum and vegan soft-serve.

Elysian Bar/Hotel Peter and Paul

In the Marigny, Elysian Bar’s Fais Do Do pays tribute to Mardi Gras with a mix of green chili vodka, chamomile grappa, and colorfully sugared edges.

Morrow Steak

Featuring four dedicated Carnival cocktails, highlights include the King Cake Baby topped with a classic king cake figure and the tropical Zulu Coconut combining coconut rum and Midori.

The Eliza Jane

Located on the parade route, the Press Room at The Eliza Jane serves cheeky cocktails like It’s Pronounced “Praw-Leen,” which mixes bourbon, praline liqueur, and orange bitters.

Suzie Q’s Sherry Pop-Up

Local mixologist Alex Utter offers a take on parade cocktails with her portable bar, featuring vibrant drinks like Emerald Queen and Purple Pearl”. Orders can be placed through her Instagram for delivery in easy-to-carry flasks.

This Mardi Gras season, be sure to celebrate with these creative cocktails, bringing additional joy to the vibrant festivities in New Orleans.

Looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Consider stepping beyond the usual bottle of wine and impressing your special someone with some delightful cocktails. A selection of romantic cocktail recipes can elevate your date night and create a memorable experience.

Imagine handing over a delicious chocolate martini or a refreshing frozen hot chocolate martini—these cocktails can make anyone feel cherished. Whether you’re in the mood for a fruity mimosa, a rich after-dinner drink, or a fizzy Champagne cocktail, there’s something on the list for every vibe.

For a refreshing twist, you can try a classic cocktail with a romantic spin, like the chocolate-covered cherry Old Fashioned or a cherry espresso martini. If you want to celebrate the love for friends, Galentine’s Day, with fun drinks such as the frozen cosmo slush or giggle juice, is always a welcome option.

And don’t forget to pair your cocktails with a delicious meal! Check out favorite dinner recipes and desserts to enhance your Valentine’s Day experience.

Featured Cocktail Recipes:

• Cherry Espresso Martini: Muddled Luxardo cherries mixed with espresso create a sweet yet bold flavor.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Jell-O Shots: Fun and perfect for a sweet twist on tradition.
• An Americano In Paris: This classic cocktail transports you to the romantic streets of Paris.
• Sour Cherry Paloma: A zesty take on the beloved paloma cocktail, ideal for lovers of tequila.
• Chocolate-Covered Cherry Old Fashioned: A slow-sipping cocktail that’s rich and comforting.

Explore these options and more for a Valentine’s Day filled with love, laughter, and great drinks. Whether you’re celebrating romance or friendship, these cocktails can help set the mood. Cheers to a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

For more cocktail inspirations, check out the full list of recipes and ideas!

The U.S. State Department is taking significant steps to remove all posts from its social media accounts on X (formerly known as Twitter) dating from before Donald Trump’s second term. Reports indicate that from now on, the only way to officially access the archived posts will be through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, effectively making those earlier communications less accessible to the public.

This decision aligns with broader efforts to manage the department’s digital footprint and potentially reshape its online presence as a response to evolving political climates. The implications of such a move are considerable, as it raises questions about transparency and the public’s right to access historical government communications.

For more details, refer to the article on Engadget.

In the evolving landscape of the cocktail scene, 2026 is set to embrace a wave of nostalgia with a resurgence of vintage drinks and spirits, as predicted by expert mixologist Molly Horn from Total Wine & More. As people seek comfort in simpler times, classic cocktails such as the appletini, French martini, and Amaretto Sour are making a comeback in bars. Meanwhile, at home, cocktail enthusiasts are expected to experiment with slightly more complex drinks that have traditionally been overlooked, like an authentic mai tai or cosmopolitan.

Horn emphasizes the importance of adaptability in cocktail culture. She notes how there is a growing trend of high-quality Ready-To-Drink cocktails that illustrate the potential of classic recipes, encouraging consumers to replicate these at home. This revival is driven by the joy of reimagining old favorites in new, sustainable ways.

Several spirits are poised for a notable comeback in 2026, with vodka leading the charge. Once sidelined in craft cocktails, vodka is reclaiming its place due to its affordability and versatility in mixing. Additionally, classic liqueurs, including amaretto and peach schnapps, are set to reappear as bartenders and home mixologists explore playful flavors that deliver enjoyable cocktails.

For those eager to indulge in the vintage trend, visiting a retro-themed bar could provide the perfect opportunity to order classic drinks, while trying your hand at making a classic French martini at home could be a fun way to embrace this nostalgic wave.