August is right around the corner. How did that happen …again? Each year, the month of June cues me that summer is here to stay. Then July 4th passes and summer begins to sprint. The sheer confusion I experience at this yearly is dumbfounding. At this point in my life, I should know better. We should all know better. But we don’t. And that is ok. Summer must be savored. For this reason, I have put together a list of trending summer libations. These suggestions come from the many mixologists that find their way to my IG account daily. To all of you, thank you for the inspiration and the refreshment.
Margarita
A true summer staple is the margarita. Even in winter when seasonal depression kicks in, have a margarita. Margaritas are inedibly versatile and lend themselves to true creativity with absolutely zero boundaries. This summer, Food and Wine published their trending version of the margarita: Charred Citrus Margarita. I love charred lemons for fish and chicken dishes as they add a beautiful acidity as well as a bright punch of flavor. Why not do the same with your margarita? The result is a well balanced cocktail with rich citrus flavors, a light caramelized sweetness, and a faint smokiness that deepens the overall experience. Pro tip – do not skip over step one. Clean your grill and clean it well!
Verdita
Thank you to a post by @eatvoraciously, this deliciously refreshing libation made its way to my rotation. Let’s first start with the color which I can only describe as fresh cut grass. The brightness of the green on this drink has star quality written all over it. It is a simple beverage that requires a blender and mesh strainer or cheese cloth but yields quenching results. Fresh pineapple and lime juices, cilantro, mint and as much or as little jalapeño you like are blended together with the addition of a pinch of salt. Once combined, strain the liquid and chill. Pour over ice and top with soda water or tonic water. What, no booze you say? Well, yes this is technically a mocktail but if you are not in the mock mood – add tequila or rum. Delicious either way.
Affogato
The affogato is a tried and true dessert that will never go out of style. It is smooth, satiating, and simple. The simplicity is key to this beverage as it is traditionally two ingredients: ice cream/gelato and espresso. That is it. You are done. Unless you want to amp it up a bit with the addition of your favorite cordial like @coctails suggests. Their nod to the affogato is a stunner as it is served in a martini glass with a coffee liqueur and espresso floating atop vanilla ice cream. Decadent simplicity. I am a mint chocolate chip type of girl so I think a little creme de menthe and a chocolate liquor with espresso over vanilla ice cream suites me just fine.
Batch cocktails
Batch cocktails have been invading my IG account for the past year as well as showing up on cocktail menus everywhere. Hosting a dinner party and want a signature cocktail to start? Batch it out to save time and clean up that individual cocktail making presents. The Negroni has made a strong come back over the past few years and people have begun to take their own spin on the classic (and the sbagliato). What says summer more than beautiful red cherries? This batch Negroni made by @join_jules brings introduces the rich flavor of cherry to infuse Campari before creating a pitcher of Cherry Negroni. Just add ice and you have arrived. Note to look at her beautiful ice cubes that have cherries in them – subtle and classy – great touch.
Gin and Tonic
I am not sure if the gin and tonic is actually trending but it is a classic. For me, it was my mother’s favorite cocktail during the summer months which makes it a life long trend for me. There are so many great recipes out there there that include cucumber, juniper berries, or rosemary. I have nothing against adding flavors to the original for others. However for me, as my mother would tell me, KISS – keep it simple stupid!
There is technically almost 7 weeks of summer still left (depends on when you are reading this!). Slow it down. Take a walk, take a nap, take in a sunset. While you are at it, try a trending libation with or without the booze. Wake up your senses and embrace the summer we have left. Good news, there will be another one next year!
