Summer is on its way with fun and fruity vibes that cover everything from clothing to cocktails. Here is a list of just 10 of the many adult beverages that are particularly suited for summertime entertaining.

Adult Lemonade

Fill a tall glass with shaved ice, add your favorite vodka, fill the glass to the rim with freshly squeezed lemonade, and garnish with a lemon slice. This libation is ideal for sipping on a shaded porch during a hot summer afternoon.

White Wine Sangria

Mix one bottle of your favorite white wine with two cups of ginger ale, four shots of white rum, and enough white sugar to suit the personal tastes and preferences of you and your guests. Stir in fresh slices of orange, pour into cocktail glasses over ice, and garnish with mint sprigs.

Sparkling Wine Cocktail

This one lets you get creative. Using your favorite sparkling wine as a base, add the fresh juice of your choice and pour the mixture into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake it up gently and strain into a chilled martini glasses. This one is ideal for celebratory occasions or as a prelude to a romantic dinner for two.

Mint Julep

This summer classic is always welcome whether it’s Derby day or not. Start with mint leaves and sugar crushed together at the bottom of a bucket glass, add shaved ice and bourbon. Finish it off with a quick splash of water, and you’re off to the races.

Blood Orange Mimosa

Use blood orange juice for a flavor-packed alternative to standard orange juice in this twist on the quintessential brunch drink. Shake the juice together with ice and Champagne before straining the mixture into a festive fluted glass. Add a splash or two of your favorite vodka if the occasion calls for an added kick.  

Orange Creamsicle

Pour cream-flavored vodka over ice in a bucket glass, finish it off with freshly squeezed orange juice, and you’ll be back in the carefree summer days of childhood in no time.

Aspen Crud

Place five scoops of vanilla ice cream and three shots of your favorite bourbon in a blender and mix it all up. The resulting adult milkshakes serves two and takes the edge off even the doggiest days of summer.

Waterlily

When you need something fancy, shake together a shot of gin, a half-shot of crème de violette, a splash of triple sec, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Strain into a clear, chilled martini glass and enjoy the gorgeous lavender hue.

Coconut Water Champagne Punch

For a summer punch with a tropical accent, combine coconut water, Champagne, and fresh mango slices. Keep this chilled in the refrigerator until just prior to serving.

Rum Sunset

For a tropical twist on an old classic, pour a shot of your favorite spiced rum into a tall cocktail glass filled with ice. Add freshly squeezed orange juice, a few drops of grenadine, and garnish with a fresh slice of lime and a maraschino cherry.

Last Thoughts

Summer will be here before you know it and you’ll want to be prepared with these refreshing, fruity, and fun cocktails. Please feel free to contact our New Jersey corporate caterer for more seasonal food and beverage ideas.

"Creating Culinary Magic"

- Chef John Deatcher

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