Staycation Summer Cocktails

We’re all in need of a little pick-me-up at the moment and what better way to make the most of your staycation than sipping delicious cocktails as the sun sets? While wine and beer are great with dinner or a barbeque, there’s nothing like sipping a refreshing cocktail on a warm Summer’s night. Whether you’re looking for a quick mixed drink for one or a pitcher to share, our recipes are the perfect addition to any evening. There’s something to suit all tastes, depending on what you’re looking for, from fruity and sweet to stronger tipples that pack a punch.     

Warmer weather is on its way (we hope), but the sweltering summer sun will be no match for your arsenal of cool summer drinks. Cocktail shakers at the ready…

Garden Party Spritz

Try this refreshing spritz at your next BBQ or garden party, it’s sure to impress!

You’ll need:

• 200ml red vermouth,
• 200ml white vermouth,
• 200ml gin
• 1 tsp dried lavender

Pour the Vermouth and gin into a jug and add the lavender. Stir and leave to infuse overnight in the fridge. Serve with ice and sliced lemon for a refreshing drink.

Summer Evening Strawberry Gin

Capture the taste of summer with this berry-infused cocktail.

You’ll need:

• 700ml bottle of gin (we love William Kerr’s Borders Gin)
• 400g of sliced strawberries – the perfect reason to head out fruit picking
• 100g caster sugar

Mix gin, strawberries and sugar in a large bowl and pour into a sterilised jar. Refrigerate, stirring every now and then. Strain through filters or a muslin cloth when serving.

Afternoon Marteani

A delicious addition to an afternoon tea party and it only takes 3 minutes to make!

You’ll need:

• 1 tbsp loose-leaf Earl Grey tea
• 700ml bottle of gin

Put the Earl Grey tea in a large jug and pour the gin over. Stir for a few minutes .Strain the gin through a tea strainer back into the bottle. If you see small particles of tea still suspended in the gin, rinse out the jug and, using a coffee filter or some muslin, strain the gin a second time to remove. Shake with ice and serve in tea cups.

Alfresco Dinner Thirst Quencher

A sophisticated cocktail with a fruity kick.

You’ll need:

• 200ml vodka
• 200ml cointreau
• 400ml orange juice
• 600ml cranberry juice
• peel from 2 limes
• crushed ice (to serve)

Pour the vodka, cointreau and juice into a jug and stir well. Add the crushed ice and lime to the glasses and pour your cocktail.

Do you have a favourite cocktail recipe? We’d love to hear from you.