A margarita by the pool or a highball in the middle of the day? There are plenty of easy cocktails to whip up at home this summer, and we’ve got you covered with some delicious suggestions.
The sun is blazing, the city streets are scorching, and all you want to do this summer is stay inside, air-conditioning cranked up, or lounge by the pool. But why not level up your cocktail game? It might sound intimidating, but whipping up your favorite drinks in the comfort of your home bar is easier than you think. Check out our suggestions below for five easy cocktails that’ll keep you cool all summer long…
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1800 Tiendita Margarita
Nothing says summer quite like lounging by the pool with a delicious margarita in hand—Tajín rim and all. While making your own margarita at home might seem intimidating, it’s actually as simple as a few key ingredients: some garnishes, agave syrup, fresh lime juice, and your choice of premium tequila.
We highly recommend 1800 Cristalino—the kind of tequila that brings subtle notes of oak and vanilla, with just a hint of nuttiness and citrus to set the summer vibe. Crafted from 100% Weber blue agave, handpicked and aged in both French and American oak barrels, then finished in port wine casks, this tequila is smooth, complex, and refreshingly versatile. It’s the perfect base for a standout summer cocktail—easy to make, hard to forget.
Recommended recipe on 1800’s Official Website.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Ice Chalet Highball
We’re big believers that good scotch can—and should—be enjoyed neat. But let’s be real: when the heat is relentless, nothing beats a trusty highball. That refreshing mix of whiskey and soda water doesn’t just hit the spot—it kind of hydrates you too (okay, we’re definitely justifying it, but still).
If you’re going to mix something great, you might as well start with the best. Enter Johnnie Walker’s latest release: Blue Label Ice Chalet. Crafted by Master Blender Emma Walker, this exclusive blend of rare whiskies—including single malts from the legendary Brora distillery—delivers a smooth, unforgettable scotch with notes of cinnamon-spiced apple, cloves, and the faintest whisper of Alpine smoke.
Recommended cocktail recipe on Johnnie Walker’s Official Website.
The Botanist and Tonic
A classic G&T is like the highball’s breezy cousin—perfect for people who aren’t into whiskey. And honestly, we get it. Sometimes, the crisp, botanical flavor of gin is exactly what you need on a hot summer’s day.
Sure, you can make a G&T with any gin and tonic, but we recommend trying The Botanist—a satin-smooth gin that’s easy on the palate, with mellow notes of citrus, herbs, and wild botanicals. It’s just as enjoyable on its own as it is mixed into your favorite cocktail.
Making a G&T is refreshingly simple: just gin, a premium tonic you love, and a handful of herbs, fruits, or garnishes to boost the flavor. Want to kick it up a notch? The Botanist has a cool Bramble & Rosemary recipe we’ll drop below.
Recommended cocktail recipe on The Botanist’s Official Website.
Grey Goose Dry Vodka Martini Cocktail
Don’t lie—we know you pretend to be James Bond every time you sip a vodka martini (but only if it’s shaken, not stirred, of course). No shame in that! Shake, stir, and strike a pose. Just make sure you’re doing it in your best summer linen suit, holding an ice-cold glass of Grey Goose Dry Vodka Martini.
Martinis aren’t for everyone. That bold blend of vodka, vermouth, and bitters can be a bit intense, especially if your palate isn’t used to it. But once you acquire the taste, it can turn into a full-blown obsession. Whether you’re piling on the olives or keeping it sleek with a lemon twist to channel summer vibes, a martini is a stylish way to keep cool—both temperature-wise and, well, James Bond-wise.
Recommended recipe on Grey Goose Vodka’s Official Website.
Maker’s Mark Mint Julep
Ah, the Mint Julep—the drink of choice in the American South, famous for keeping folks cool and refreshed during those long, hot months. Strangely enough, it never quite took off in Manila, despite our year-round summer weather! If you haven’t tried one yet, now’s your chance to finally experience it. By our definition, it genuinely tastes like summer—cool, crisp, and just a little bit decadent.
To make a Mint Julep, you only need four simple ingredients: syrup, loads of mint, plenty of ice, and your favorite American bourbon. We highly recommend Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon—the world’s first premium bottled bourbon, created by the Samuels family with the goal of crafting the perfect spirit to share with friends and loved ones. Smooth and balanced, it’s made from soft red winter wheat, resulting in a full-bodied, one-of-a-kind bourbon that’s ideal for this iconic cocktail.
Recommended recipe on the Maker’s Mark Official Website.
