If there’s one thing that quarantine cocktails have taught me is that they definitely shouldn’t be $15 out at a bar. Amiright?! Will I still pay it when I go out? Absolutely. I love a good craft cocktail, especially on a rooftop in the summertime. Since we couldn’t go anywhere, we had fun making our deck our own “rooftop” to sip cocktails while in quarantine. Here are some of mine & Shane’s favorite summer cocktails to make at home.
Peach Sangria
Sangria in the summer is like a right of passage into the season. While I love both types, I have found white wine sangria to be more refreshing. This peach sangria is one of my favorite summer cocktails to make for myself and for a group when we have company. It is so easy and always a hit! Serve over ice and frozen peaches. For a pitcher, feel free to add a variety of fruits like oranges, peaches and apples for a beautiful display.
For One:
- 1/2 cup Sauvignon Blanc
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1.5 oz E&J Peach Brandy
- 1 tsp honey (melted)
For a Batch:
- 1 bottle of Sauvignon Blanc
- 1 1/2 c orange juice
- 1 cup E&J Peach Brandy
- 1/8 cup honey (melted)
Kentucky Mule
In January, Shane went on a Bourbon tour in Kentucky and discovered a similar cocktail to this one. We love to try to recreate drinks & recipes at home that we have had out. I personally don’t drink bourbon, however, this is one of his favorites. He also loves these glasses with a large cube of ice for any bourbon beverage.
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- .75 oz lime juice
- .75 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz ginger beer
Classic Margarita
I’ll let Shane have his bourbon drinks, because I can sip a margarita all day! Tequila has always been my drink. If I’m going for a lighter option than a margarita, I will just mix tequila, club soda, lime, and a splash of simple syrup. Here’s my go-to margarita recipe that will sweep you off your feet if you aren’t careful.
For One:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz of Grand Marnier or Contrieu
- .75 oz fresh lime juice
- .5 oz simple syrup or agave
For a Batch:
- 3.5 cups of tequila
- 1.75 cups of lime juice
- 1.75 cups of Grand Marnier or Contrieu
- 7 oz of simple syrup
Smoky Pineapple
If you aren’t a fan of Mezcal, this drink may not be for you. But this sweet and smoky combination is a fun craft cocktail for anyone who loves pineapple. Combine ingredients and ice in a cocktail shaker and strain into a coupe glass. For a spicy version of this drink, make your own simple syrup by boiling equal parts water, sugar, and a sliced jalapeño.
- 2 oz Sombra Mezcal
- 3 oz pineapple juice
- .75 oz lime juice
- .5 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz egg white
Lemon Elderflower Spritz
Gin is a newfound love of mine in the last year. This drink is super easy and incredibly refreshing. I buy the lemon elderflower soda from Trader Joe’s or World Market, but if you don’t live near one of those stores, you can order this similar soda or this cordial and mix it with club soda. Not a fan of gin? Swap with vodka.
- Juice of two lemon wedges
- 2 oz of gin (I prefer Hendricks or Aviation)
- Fill glass with ice and add about 2 oz lemon elderflower soda
- If you’re feeling fancy, top with champagne or prosecco
We have loved making cocktails at home the last few months since we updated our home bar in our bonus room. I hope you found something refreshing to make this weekend. I’d love to see which of these summer cocktails you are enjoying at home, so be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make any of these. Cheers!
