Summer Cocktails for a Garden Party, From Spritz to Sangria

Summer Cocktails for a Garden Party

Summer isn't measured by the calendar but by evenings in the backyard. All it takes is a few chairs, a grill that's still warm, and a crew of people who aren't in any hurry. And this is exactly the moment for a cocktail that cools you down, smells of citrus, and looks better than anything out of a can.

A good summer drink doesn't have to be rocket science. Usually a few ingredients, plenty of ice, and the urge to play around with it for a while are all you need. An aperitif to welcome everyone, something crisp with the meal, a sweeter tropical sip for late in the evening, and a big pitcher that serves the whole crew at once. With ice, citrus, and a few herbs on hand, you can run a backyard bar without a bartending course.

We rounded up the classics you can count on, from a crisp Aperol Spritz through a minty mojito to a fruity sangria for the whole group. Before you start mixing, take a look at how to pick by the base spirit and how to get a backyard bar going.

How to Pick by the Base Spirit

If you're not sure where to start, go by what you like. For a light aperitif, reach for an Aperol Spritz or a gin and tonic, which refresh without overpowering the food. Fans of tropical notes will love rum, the backbone of both a minty mojito and a creamy piña colada.

Anyone who likes bolder, more sour drinks won't go wrong with a tequila margarita or a bourbon whiskey sour. A vodka Moscow Mule adds a zesty ginger bite and is served ice-cold in a copper mug. And when you don't feel like mixing every glass separately, a fruity red-wine sangria keeps the whole crew happy from a single pitcher.

Most of these drinks also have an honest non-alcoholic version, so everyone at the table gets their fair share, designated drivers and kids included.

The occasion and the weather tell you a lot, too. A sunny lunch calls for light, bitter aperitifs, the early evening asks for something fruitier, and the late hours suit a sweeter or creamier sip. When in doubt, set two or three flavors side by side so everyone can reach for their own.

Think about what the drink meets on the plate, as well. Lime and mint go with grilled vegetables and fish, while bolder pours with bourbon or tequila stand up to smoked meat and aged cheese. And a plain glass of water with ice between rounds always earns its place.

How to Set Up a Backyard Cocktail Bar

Before you invite guests, think about ice. You always go through more than you expect, and a warm drink won't save the party. Big cubes also melt more slowly and don't water the drink down as much. Set aside a few extra glasses, sliced citrus, and fresh herbs to keep in reserve.

For drinks meant for a crowd, a so-called batch pays off. Mix a larger amount ahead of time into a pitcher and top it off with bubbles or tonic right before serving so it doesn't go flat. A garnish isn't just for show, a slice of orange, a sprig of mint, or a round of cucumber adds aroma too.

It pays to set out a few basic tools, too. A jar, a shot glass, and a long spoon stand in for a shaker, a jigger, and a bar spoon, so you don't have to buy anything for a single evening. Lay out syrup, fresh juice, and sliced fruit in bowls ahead of time so you assemble drinks during the party instead of running back to the kitchen. And a few non-alcoholic versions with soda, tonic, or iced tea will please anyone who's driving or taking a break.

Below you'll find our summer collection. Pick by your mood and by what you have on hand at the bar.

Cheers

Chill the glasses, slice the citrus, and dive in. We keep expanding the collection, so feel free to come back for new ideas.