As the sun beats down on us during the summer months, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a refreshing drink that can quench our thirst and cool us down. While fruity cocktails are often the go-to choice for many, bourbon-based drinks offer a unique and satisfying alternative. With its smooth, sweet flavor profile and versatility in mixing with various ingredients, bourbon is an excellent spirit to explore during the summer season.
Aged in charred oak barrels and made from at least 51% corn, bourbon whiskey has a distinct character that pairs well with a range of mixers, from fruit juices to soda water. Its light yet robust flavor makes it an ideal base for refreshing summer cocktails.
From classic recipes like the Mint Julep to more unique creations such as Bourbon Peach Tea, there’s no shortage of delicious bourbon cocktail options to try.
Whether you’re looking for a straightforward bourbon drink or something a little more adventurous, the world of bourbon cocktails has something for every taste and occasion. So why not give these tasty drinks a go and shake up your summer drink routine?
The Beachy Bourbon
Blueberry Bourbon Smash
In the sweltering heat of summer, there’s nothing quite like the Blueberry Bourbon Smash to quench your thirst. This revitalizing cocktail masterfully blends the sweetness of fresh blueberries, the brightness of mint, the tanginess of lemon juice, and the rich flavor of bourbon. The result is a one-of-a-kind concoction that beautifully harmonizes the boldness of the whiskey with the lusciousness of the fruit.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado looking to shake things up or simply seeking a refreshing way to beat the heat, this Blueberry Bourbon Smash is an absolute must-try.
Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash
Imagine sipping on a refreshing cocktail that embodies the essence of late summer’s sweetness and autumn’s warmth. The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is just that – a harmonious blend of grilled Okanagan peaches, Smoked Maple Bourbon, fresh thyme, spicy ginger beer, lemon juice, and a hint of bitters.
As the smoky bourbon and caramelized peaches meld with the spicy kick from the ginger beer, the result is a truly unique and tantalizing taste experience that’s sure to delight even the most discerning bourbon enthusiast.
Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail
A refreshing blend of tropical flavors and warming bourbon, the Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect drink for sizzling summer days. The subtle floral notes of hibiscus and sweet almond syrup infuse the classic bourbon cocktail with a unique twist, while the squeeze of lemon juice expertly balances the sweetness. Crushed ice adds a fun tiki-like touch, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or poolside sipping.
This revitalizing concoction is a must-try for anyone seeking to add a dash of tropical charm to their bourbon.
Peach Bellini
Indulge in the sweet and tangy essence of summer with the Peach Bellini, a captivating cocktail that harmoniously blends the flavors of fresh peaches and watermelon with the warmth of bourbon, the brightness of lemon juice, and the subtle sweetness of simple syrup. A hint of smoky depth is added by mezcal, while a raspberry popsicle garnish provides an unexpected burst of fruity fun at the end.
This refreshing concoction is ideally suited for sipping on the porch on a sweltering summer day, offering a delightful surprise in every sip. For those seeking a unique and revitalizing bourbon cocktail to enjoy during the warmer months, the Peach Bellini is a must-try.
Bourbon Mint Lemonade Cocktail
If you’re in the mood for a revitalizing and effortless bourbon cocktail perfect for sizzling summer days, look no further than the Bourbon Mint Lemonade Cocktail. This delightful concoction strikes the ideal balance between sweet and tangy, with a subtle hint of mint that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool or hosting a backyard bash, this refreshing drink is sure to be a hit among your guests.
What sets this cocktail apart is its simplicity – it requires only a few fresh and easy-to-find ingredients, making it a cinch to prepare.
One of the standout features of the Bourbon Mint Lemonade Cocktail is its one-of-a-kind flavor profile. With its unique blend of sweet and tangy notes, it’s bound to impress even the most discerning palates. So why not give it a try at your next outdoor gathering? Your guests will thank you!
And who knows – it just might become your new go-to summer drink.
Fresh Cherry Bourbon Cocktail
Indulge in the sweetness of summer with the Fresh Cherry Bourbon Cocktail, a revitalizing concoction that will quench your thirst and leave you craving more. This tantalizing blend combines the lusciousness of fresh cherries, the rich depth of bourbon, the creamy warmth of vanilla extract, the subtle sweetness of sugar, and the tanginess of lemon juice, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors.
The smoky undertones from the bourbon provide a delightful contrast, while the hint of vanilla lingering in the aftertaste adds a touch of sophistication. When you add a splash of soda water to this already alluring cocktail, it transforms into a refreshing treat that’s perfect for sipping on a sweltering summer day or serving at your next backyard bash.
Raspberry Bourbon Smash
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with the Raspberry Bourbon Smash, a refreshing summer cocktail that’s sure to delight. This fruity concoction combines fresh raspberries, mint, lemon, and your favorite bourbon whiskey, resulting in a unique flavor profile that’s both reminiscent of warm summer days and sophisticated enough for any gathering.
The muddled fruit and herbs infused with bourbon create a delightful harmony of tastes, while the addition of a touch of sweetness and a splash of sparkling water adds depth and a hint of effervescence. With its simplicity and ease of preparation – just five minutes from start to finish – this cocktail is an ideal choice for those looking to impress with a delicious summer bourbon drink.
Cherry Bourbon Smash
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of the Cherry Bourbon Smash, a refreshing cocktail perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. This bourbon lover’s delight combines the richness of cherry-infused bourbon or fresh cherries with a burst of citrus and a hint of mint, creating a truly unique taste experience. To craft this delectable drink, simply shake together mint leaves, lemon wedges, simple syrup, and cherry-tinged bourbon over ice, then strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
For an added touch of effervescence, top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. The Cherry Bourbon Smash pairs exquisitely with rich and creamy Brie or decadent chocolate-covered cherry cheesecake, making it the perfect accompaniment to your next outdoor gathering.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Imagine sipping on a refreshing and fruity Blackberry Bourbon Smash on a warm summer evening. This delightful concoction brings together the natural sweetness of blackberries, the smoothness of bourbon, and the invigorating zing of mint leaves and ginger beer. The result is a truly unique twist on a classic cocktail. With its ease of preparation and elegant garnish options featuring fresh blackberries and mint leaves, this summer bourbon cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.
Its simplicity and flavor profile make it an excellent choice for those seeking a delicious and easy-to-make drink perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer
Experience the essence of summertime in a glass with the Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer, a refreshing twist on the classic Arnold Palmer. By infusing the traditional tea-lemonade blend with a hint of bourbon and peach liqueur, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance between cool and invigorating, with a subtle nod to its bourbon heritage.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, this drink is sure to quench your thirst on even the most scorching summer days.
So why not give it a try and discover for yourself why the Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer has earned its spot among the top summer bourbon cocktails?
Honey Blackberry Shrub
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic shrub cocktail, the Honey Blackberry Shrub combines the richness of honey with the bold flavor of blackberries. To craft this summer treat, combine blackberries with honey and vinegar in a process called maceration, then blend the resulting syrup with bourbon and top it off with soda water. The outcome is a delightfully balanced drink that’s perfect for hot summer days spent lounging by the pool or mingling at outdoor gatherings.
Brown Derby
Savor the classic charm of The Brown Derby, a revitalizing bourbon cocktail perfectly suited for warm weather sipping. This refreshing twist on a traditional bourbon drink combines the tanginess of fresh grapefruit juice with the subtle sweetness of honey syrup. While its origins remain unclear, one thing is certain – this delightful concoction tastes sublime.
With only three straightforward ingredients, The Brown Derby is simplicity itself to prepare and sure to impress your guests at your next summer soiree. If you’re a bourbon aficionado seeking a new summer libation to tantalize your taste buds, the Brown Derby is an absolute must-try.
Bourbon Peach Smash
Imagine sipping on a refreshing summer cocktail that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with the smoothness of bourbon, all while enjoying the warm sunshine. The Bourbon Peach Smash is just that – a delightful concoction that perfectly blends the flavors of the season. As a smash cocktail, its recipe changes with the seasons, making it an exciting and unpredictable drink to try.
To make this tasty treat, simply muddle fresh peach slices and basil leaves together, then add in brown sugar simple syrup, lemon juice, and bourbon. Give it all a good shake with ice and strain it into two glasses filled with ice. Finally, garnish with some additional peach slices and basil leaves for a truly Instagram-worthy cocktail. Whether you’re a fan of fruity and sweet drinks or just looking for something new to try this summer, the Bourbon Peach Smash is sure to please.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for hot days spent lounging by the pool or enjoying a backyard barbecue with friends.
Blackberry Bourbon Sour
The Blackberry Bourbon Sour is an expertly crafted summer cocktail that masterfully blends the luscious sweetness of blackberries with the robustness of bourbon. This revitalizing drink is perfect for those seeking a refreshing concoction with a hint of sophistication. The judicious addition of citrus and bitters strikes a harmonious balance, tempering the sweetness with a tangy and slightly bitter note.
A sprig of rosemary and a handful of blackberries serve as an elegant garnish, elevating not only the visual appeal but also the aromatic profile of the drink. With its ability to be effortlessly prepared in advance and served at gatherings, this cocktail is an ideal choice for hosting friends and family. If you’re on the hunt for a summer sipper that embodies both rejuvenation and boldness, the Blackberry Bourbon Sour is a must-try.
Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash
Crafting the perfect summer cocktail, look no further than the Strawberry Basil Bourbon Smash. This revitalizing drink harmoniously blends succulent strawberries, fragrant basil, and smooth bourbon, striking a delightful equilibrium between sweet and smoky notes that will leave even the most discerning palates satisfied.
Whether you’re an seasoned mixologist or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, this recipe is remarkably straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novices and experts alike. As the seasons shift into warm weather, this refreshing concoction is a mouthwatering way to toast the sun-kissed days ahead.
Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The iconic Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a timeless concoction that whiskey aficionados absolutely must try. This vintage drink is crafted with bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice, topped off with a cherry garnish. According to lore, it was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the esteemed Manhattan Club in New York City, allegedly for Lady Randolph Churchill’s banquet.
Since its inception, the drink has become a staple of sophistication and is cherished by whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. With its effortless preparation and refreshing qualities, the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is an ideal choice for a warm summer evening, making it an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted classic cocktail.
Peach Old Fashioned Cocktail
Savor the essence of summer with the Peach Old Fashioned Cocktail, a refreshing twist on the classic recipe. This four-ingredient concoction is remarkably easy to prepare and serves as the perfect accompaniment to warm weather. The subtle sweetness and fruity nuances introduced by peach juice and a muddled peach slice beautifully harmonize with the boldness of bourbon, creating a truly unique sipping experience.
If you’re seeking a revitalizing and innovative bourbon cocktail to enjoy during the peak summer months, look no further than the Peach Old Fashioned – it’s sure to quench your thirst.
Gold Rush Cocktail
Savoring the essence of summer, the Gold Rush Cocktail is a masterclass in refined simplicity. By substituting traditional sugar simple syrup with honey, this bourbon-based concoction yields a delightfully subtle sweetness that’s perfect for those seeking a low-sugar indulgence. The incorporation of fresh lemon juice injects a tangy vibrancy, elevating the drink to an ideal summer refresher.
As a bonus, the absence of refined sugars makes it a guilt-free choice for health-conscious cocktail enthusiasts. With its harmonious balance of flavors and textures, the Gold Rush Cocktail is an absolute must-try for bourbon aficionados looking to experience the perfect blend of classic charm and revitalizing zing.
Strawberry Old Fashioned
The Strawberry Old Fashioned brings a sweet and tangy twist to the classic cocktail, making it an ideal choice for sizzling summer nights. To craft this refreshing drink, fresh strawberries and sugar are blended together to create a syrup that’s equal parts sweet and tart. This syrup is then combined with bourbon, bitters, and ice to produce a smooth and flavorful concoction that’s perfect for sipping on a sweltering afternoon.
The drink is finished off with a pop of color and flavor courtesy of a fresh strawberry garnish and an orange peel, adding a delightful touch to this already delectable cocktail. If you’re in the mood for a fruity and bourbon-based cocktail to spice up your summer, the Strawberry Old Fashioned is definitely one to try.
Blackberry Bourbon Smash With Fresh Basil
Indulge in the sweetness of summer with the Blackberry Bourbon Smash, a refreshing and revitalizing cocktail that combines the flavors of ripe blackberries, fresh basil, honey syrup, and lemon juice. This innovative twist on the classic bourbon smash recipe perfectly balances sweet and tart notes, with a hint of herbal freshness that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or simply looking for a new summer sipper, this delightful concoction is sure to impress.
Chamomile Honey and Whiskey Cocktail
Imagine sipping on a soothing, sun-kissed drink that embodies the essence of a lazy summer day. The Chamomile Honey and Whisker Cocktail is just that – a harmonious blend of dried chamomile, honey, and bourbon that yields a remarkably mellow flavor profile. Steeped together to create a symphony of subtle notes, this cocktail is then given a refreshing stir and served over ice cubes, garnished with a sprig of fresh chamomile for added visual appeal.
This low-maintenance libation is perfect for those seeking a no-fuss, laid-back beverage experience. Its understated charm makes it easy to indulge in multiple servings, which can be both liberating and mischievous. In short, the Chamomile Honey and Whisker Cocktail is an excellent addition to any summer cocktail repertoire.
Blueberry Old Fashioned
While traditional Old Fashioneds are iconic, the Blueberry Old Fashioned injects new life into this classic cocktail. The sweet blueberry simple syrup imbues the drink with a mesmerizing hue and an intriguing flavor profile that complements the bourbon without overpowering it. The harmonious blend of Angostura bitters and fresh blueberries adds an extra layer of sophistication to the presentation, making this drink perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
If you’re seeking a revitalizing and flavorful bourbon cocktail to delight your senses this summer, the Blueberry Old Fashioned is an absolute must-try.
Blackberry Sage and Bourbon Cocktail
Indulge in the harmonious fusion of sweet, tart, woodsy, and boozy flavors with the Blackberry Sage and Bourbon Cocktail. This refreshing concoction perfectly balances blackberries’ natural sweetness with sage’s subtle earthiness, a hint of ginger’s warmth, and bourbon’s rich complexity. As a result, this cocktail is an excellent choice for both morning brunches and evening gatherings.
Serve chilled, garnished with sugared blackberries, to make it the perfect signature drink for any summer event.
Amaretto Sour
The Whiskey Sour gets a creative makeover in the form of the Amaretto Sour, where the classic recipe meets the rich flavors of almond liqueur. This revitalizing drink combines fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg whites, all brought together by the subtle nutty undertones of amaretto. As the perfect companion for warm weather, the Amaretto Sour’s unique profile makes it an excellent choice for sipping on a sun-kissed afternoon.
While the inclusion of egg whites might seem daunting at first, the end result is a delightfully creamy and airy texture that complements the drink’s citrusy foundation. To elevate the experience even further, add a pinch of bitters to create an intriguing contrast. If you’re seeking a bourbon-based cocktail with a twist, the Amaretto Sour is well worth exploring.
The Italian American
In the realm of bourbon-based cocktails, ‘The Italian American’ stands out as a bold and intriguing creation. By blending the rich flavors of Amaro Montenegro and Campari with subtle notes of maple syrup and lemon juice, this cocktail deftly balances smoothness with subtle bitterness.
When savored on a warm summer evening, it’s a drink that effortlessly exudes a sense of sophistication, courtesy of its American bourbon foundation, while its Italian flair is expertly conveyed through the Amaro Montenegro and Campari. This harmonious blend ultimately yields a refreshing beverage that’s perfect for sipping in the midst of a languid summer day or evening.
Paper Plane
In the world of summer bourbon cocktails, one often overlooked gem stands out – the Paper Plane. This potent mix of Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and freshly squeezed lemon juice strikes a harmonious balance that makes it surprisingly easy to get lost in its sessionable goodness. Born from the creative mind of bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane is a modern take on the pre-prohibition classic, ‘The Last Word’.
Its unique flavor profile combines citrusy zest with refreshing crispness and a hint of bitterness. If you’re seeking an innovative and mouthwatering summer bourbon cocktail that will leave you wanting more, the Paper Plane is definitely worth giving a try.
