The unofficial end of summer is the perfect time to try something new. That “something new” is always more enjoyable when it’s booze-related (at least in my opinion, anyway). And there’s no better way to bid summer farewell than by enjoying some quality cocktails.
These drinks will elevate any occasion from being just another predictable beer and wine-fueled bash–just remember not to take your eyes off the grill for too long.
Here, five killer cocktails to enjoy this Labor Day weekend.
Dark ‘n Stormy
Made with, and trademarked by, Gosling’s Rum, this modern classic is an easy, no-frills mix that’s sure to please.
- 2 oz Gosling’s Rum
- 3 oz ginger beer
- .25 oz lime juice
Add the rum and lime juice into highball glass; fill with ice and then top with ginger beer; garnish with lime wedge and serve.
The Gibson
Simple, boozy, and even better with a quality gin like the Monkey 47. This savory martini twist is sure to step up any party.
- 2.5 oz Monkey 47 gin
- .5 oz dry vermouth
Combine all ingredients in mixing glass and add ice; stir until chilled and diluted, and strain into martini glass; garnish with pickled onion and serve.
The Honey Harvest
This gin cocktail is a perfect transition into the cooler days that are approaching. If you have some fresh rosemary, now’s the perfect time to put it to use.
- 2 oz The Botanist gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- .75 oz sweet vermouth
- .5 oz rosemary honey syrup
Mix all ingredients in a shaker over ice; shake until chilled; strain into ice-filled highball glass; garnish with fresh rosemary and serve.
Hit The Daq
This Bon Vivantito original cocktail is bound to be a hit. Why? Because when you include overproof rum in your daiquiri variation, you’re headed for a solid buzz.
- 1.5 oz Diplomatico Planas rum
- .5 oz Plantation O.F.T.D Overproof rum
- .75 oz lime juice
- .5 oz cane syrup
Mix all ingredients in shaker with ice; vigorously shake until chilled, strain into martini, or coupe, glass and serve.
Bloody Bee’s Knees
A riff on the classic Bee’s Knees, this version includes Four Pillars’ Bloody Shiraz gin which is a must for any gin drinker.
- 1.75 oz Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz gin
- .75 oz honey syrup
- .75 oz lemon juice
Mix all ingredients in shaker with ice; shake until chilled; serve up, and garnish with thyme sprig.
Tyler Zielinski is a lifestyle writer with a passion for cocktails and spirits. Follow him on Instagram at @bon_vivantito and check out his website.