Well, it’s finally happened. Our cooler temps seem to be a thing of the past, and June is coming on strong. With berries ripening and backyard grills firing up, we have only one choice: to raise a glass to the oncoming heat and greet it like a grumpy old friend.
Here are five summer cocktails to help you take advantage of berry season and keep cool at the same time. Make sure you check out our guide to berry picking in central Arkansas to snag the freshest ingredients. Enjoy, friends.
Summer Berry Sangria
via The Slow Roasted Italian | full recipe here
Patience is a virtue, or whatever. Whether this isn’t an issue for you or if you plan on practicing your fortitude, this delicious beverage takes a little time to fruity fruition. The upside is that it’s super easy. Just throw everything into a pitcher, shove it in the fridge overnight and hire a knight to guard the door. It’s worth the wait. Promise.
Peachberry Mojito
via Wedding Chicks | full recipe here
Yep. We’re just making up words now. It’s that good. This light and shimmery drink comes from the minds of the wedding planning world and is tasty enough to be considered a couple’s signature cocktail. Listen, we don’t see anyone’s name on it. Scribble your initials on the glass and it looks like you have a new signature cocktail. Finders keepers.
Raspberry Gin Cocktail
via Design Sponge | full recipe here
If, for some strange reason, you don’t find fruit refreshing enough for your summer drinking needs, this drink is just what you need. It packs a lovely punch of minty goodness that’s just enough cool you down, but not so overpowering that you’ll grow a Doublemint twin. Is anyone else’s mouth watering?
Honey Basil Bourbon Blueberry Smash
via The Simple Kitchen | full recipe here
Have mercy. This one almost isn’t fair. Don’t be fooled by the title, “smash” doesn’t mean there’s a Hulk-esque amount of work or mess involved, just good, old fashioned exquisiteness. Cue the Soirée smash.
Grapefruit and Strawberry Greyhound Poptail
via Endless Simmer | full recipe here
Yes, more made-up words, but we really don’t mind. A “poptail” is a popcicle with a boozy twist, and this one is stellar. (We couldn’t help but end with a frosty bang.) It only takes three ingredients to make today the best day of the week. Go give it a try and thank us later.
Pro tip: Follow up with some of these summer detox waters. Trust us. You’re going to need it.