Twelve ideas for warm-weather cocktails and mocktails
Whether you're hosting a barbecue or just lazing by the pool, these cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks are perfect for steamy days.
Alcoholic:
Nonalcoholic:
Black Currant Iced Tea with Cinnamon and Ginger
Party Tips:
Assemble in Stages
Serving a crowd? Most summer drinks (unless they're blended) can be made ahead in large batches. Simply omit ice and anything carbonated such as soda or sparkling wine, then mix up the rest of the ingredients in a cooler with a spigot. When it's party time, either add ice and bubbly at the last minute, or offer them alongside with instructions for mixing.
Try Variations
Many of these recipes work in either alcoholic or nonalcoholic versions. Lemonade and limeade are delicious kicked up with vodka or rum, and most punches can be made without the alcohol. If you have some guests who drink and some who don't, try serving a signature nonalcoholic drink with liquor as an optional add-in.
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