Food
15 Summer Cocktails Perfect For Sipping On The Patio
Published on June 15, 2016
Why head to a bar, when you can whip up, stir up or shake up a refreshing summer cocktail right at home? Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing day at the cottage, hosting a dinner party under the stars or just craving a fruity pick-me-up after a long day at the office, our roundup of 15 summertime sippers has something for everyone, including some alcohol-free options. Now all you have to do is stock up on ice, pick your favorite and forget about everything else.
Chilled hibiscus
tea made the night before gives this drink its vibrant color. Its tart-sweet taste balances the spicy flavors of the coconut broth.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Michael Graydon and Nikole Herriott
Source: House and Home February 2016
Designer: Ashley Denton
The smoky hints from the mezcal combined with the freshness of lime and cilantro and the savoriness of the tomato juice make this a smooth and satisfying cocktail perfect for kick-starting a hot summer day.
Get the recipe here .
A refreshing coconut limeade native to Colombia, this icy non-alcoholic drink just might become your go-to sip this season.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Stacey Brandford
Source: House and Home April 2015
Designer: Ashley Denton
Spike your summer drinks with a fruit-and-vinegar infusion, also known as shrub, for a bright kick of flavor that will no doubt spice up balmy nights.
Get the recipe here .
There’s not much to the ol’ Cape Codder. Made right, though, it’s pleasant and refreshing and just a little bit surprising.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Courtesy of Esquire’s Drink Like A Man
Tart and sparkly with a nice hit of citrus, fresh rhubarb compote adds a pretty blush to your favorite Prosecco. Pair together with your very own DIY cheese board and really surprise guests at your next BBQ.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Virginia MacDonald
Source: House & Home August 2010 Issue
Shaken, not frozen, our margarita cocktail benefits from lots of fresh lime juice, premium tequila and a dash of Grand Marnier — the perfect start to any summer fiesta.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Stacy Brandford
Source: House & Home September 2010 Issue
This uniquely Canadian cocktail is a perfect dockside sipper. Kosher salt’s larger grind makes it ideal for the rim — here, we’ve mixed it with fresh lemon zest.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Angus Fergusson
Source: House & Home June 2011 Issue
Cool your tongue this summer with icy watermelon mojitos. With its sweet and fresh watermelon flavor and cool mint aftertaste, you’ll be sure to have yourself the best Mexican-style mojito yet.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Michael Graydon
Source: House & Home July 2012 Issue
Want to stay hydrated this summer without dipping into alcohol? Well, we’ve got the perfect beverage for non-tipplers. Try our spicy homemade ginger ale, a thirst-quenching alternative to iced tea or lemonade. There’s only one catch—Once you get a taste of this zippy, lemon-kissed ginger ale, you’ll be hooked for life.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Stacy Brandford
Source: House & Home August 2012 Issue
Brightened with cherries and spiked with bourbon, this rouged whiskey sour is good company while working the grill. Try out this fruity whiskey twist tonight.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Stacy Brandford
Source: House & Home August 2012 Issue
This verdant cocktail is like a garden party on ice. For best results, try adding Hendrick’s, a Scottish gin flavoured with Damask roses and cucumber (but any brand will do the trick).
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Michael Graydon
Source: House & Home January 2013 Issue
Natural grapefruit soda is made with real juice and has no artificial colors or flavors. To get started visit your local food store and select supermarkets. For best results, try San Pellegrino, a popular brand used.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Ran Szulc
Source: House & Home May 2014 Issue
This drink can easily be turned into the perfect summer cocktail with the help of a little vodka, white rum or silver tequila. What will be your summer cocktail pick?
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Donna Griffith
Source: House & Home August 2014 Issue
Delicious and decorative — garnish this punch with orange, mint and pomegranate seeds for a festive look and extra hit of flavor. Best of all, you can make an alcohol free version for everyone to enjoy at your next summer party.
Get the recipe here .
Photographer: Donna Griffith
Source: House & Home December 2014