Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing gin cocktail. Whether hosting a backyard party, enjoying a night with friends, or relaxing after a long day, these curated recipes feature the most recommended gin cocktails for any occasion. You can whip up delicious drinks perfect for summertime sipping with just a few ingredients and simple steps.
The Bees Knees: A Classic and Refreshing Gin Cocktail
The Bees Knees is a classic gin cocktail that has existed since the 1920s. This sweet and tangy drink features gin, lemon juice and honey. It’s perfect for summer evenings when you want to cool down with a refreshing drink. Mix two ounces of gin with fresh lemon juice (one ounce or more, depending on your preference!), one ounce of honey syrup (made from equal parts honey and water), and some ice into a shaker. Shake vigorously until the ingredients are well-combined. Strain into a glass filled with ice, and garnish with a fresh slice of lemon or some fresh mint leaves for an added touch! Enjoy!
The Aviation: A Fresh Summer Twist on a Gin Sour
The Aviation is a sweet and tart gin sour created in the early 1900s. To make it, shake two ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce maraschino liqueur, 1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice, and 1/4 ounce simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Strain into a chilled glass, then garnish with a brandied cherry or some edible flowers for flavour and panache. This light and refreshing cocktail are perfect for those hot summer evenings when you need to cool down and relax! Enjoy!
Pimm’s Cup: Enjoy a Refreshing Sip of this Delicious Drinker
The Pimm’s Cup is a classic English summer cocktail made with gin and a blend of secret herbs. To make your own Pimm’s Cup, fill a tall glass with ice and pour in 2 ounces of gin and 3 ounces of Pimm’s No. 1. Top it with about 4 ounces of ginger ale or lemon-lime soda for fizz, then stir and add orange slices, cucumber wheels, or other fresh fruit to garnish. Enjoy this light and refreshing libation during summertime soirees to cool off in style!
Southside Fizz: An Effervescent and Light Gin Drink
The Southside Fizz is a great gin drink for summertime imbibing, as it’s light yet bubbly. Combine 2 ounces of gin, two teaspoons of fresh lime juice and one tablespoon of simple syrup in a shaker. Add a few ice cubes and shake vigorously until chilled. Now strain the mixture into a rocks glass with fresh ice and top with 1 – 2 ounces of club soda. Garnish with lemon wedges or herb sprigs, such as mint or rosemary, for extra flavour. Sip this refreshing beverage on sweltering summer days for the perfect cool-down.
Tom Collins: Add Some Citrusy Spark to Your Summer Drinks List
A Tom Collins is a classic gin cocktail and perfect for a hot summer’s day. To make it, fill a highball glass with ice cubes and add 2 ounces of gin, 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. Now slowly pour 3 ounces of club soda over the mixture and stir to combine. Add several orange slices to the drink for an extra fruity flavour, then garnish with maraschino cherries or mint sprigs. Enjoy this zesty cocktail with your friends on balmy days!