Life
I'm one of those girls who lives for the summer. Even on the hottest days, I don't look forward to those first few crisp weeks in September and October because I know I'll have to say goodbye to the things I love about hot weather. All too soon, my beloved outdoor brunch spots will put away their patio tables, and the streetside fruit stands I frequent will be closed for the year.
With that in mind, you might as well make the most of your favorite warm-weather activities while you still can — and while you're at it, sip on the summer cocktails that'll help you savor those summer memories year-round. That's why we've partnered with the makers of Smirnoff Sourced to create a few custom cocktails that are easy to make and have the tiniest hints of autumn so you can enjoy them now in the sweltering heat until well beyond Labor Day when the temperature cools down. In the meantime, they pair perfectly with whatever fun-in-the-sun plans are on your itinerary this summer, whether you're headed to the beach or partaking in a picnic brunch with your friends.
A Sangria To Sip At Your Picnic Brunch
One way to keep your brunch game strong throughout the summer? Find an outdoor space where you can host your own. Whether you're picnicking at a local park or taking advantage of your friend's rooftop access, as long as you've got an arsenal of bagels and fruit (and of course, a batch of cocktails), the world is your brunch spot. Make this sweet sangria recipe in a portable container, and by the time you reach your destination it'll be ready to serve! If you prefer your sangria to be even more fruit-heavy, you can add in fresh apple and pear slices as well.
Cran-Apple Sangria
Slices from one large orange
1 cup fresh cranberries
4-6 cinnamon sprigs
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup Smirnoff Sourced Cranberry Apple flavored vodka
1 bottle red wine, like cabernet sauvignon
2 cups club soda
2 cups ice
Combine all ingredients except the club soda in a large bowl, floating the orange slices, cranberries, and cinnamon sprigs on top. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, adding the club soda right before serving. Serves 10.
Head To The Beach With Citrus Pineapple Mojitos
It's prime time for the beach, whether you're the type to splash around in the waves or just sit back and catch some rays. But don't feel like you're beholden to warm beer or rosé because it's what you typically have in your cooler. This fruity take on the classic mojito is sure to be a hit under your beach umbrella. Fresh pineapples muddle easier than limes and perfectly complement the real pineapple juice found in Smirnoff Sourced Pineapple flavored vodka.
Pineapple Citrus Mojito
6 ounces lemon-lime seltzer
2 ounces Smirnoff Sourced Pineapple flavored vodka
3-4 fresh pineapple chunks
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
Slices from one lime
Ice
Cocktail shaker
Muddle mint leaves and pineapple chunks in a cocktail shaker. Add Smirnoff Sourced Pineapple flavored vodka and shake over ice. Pour into a glass, and top off with lemon-lime seltzer. Garnish with lime slices and additional mint, if desired. Serves one.
Embrace The Heat With A Classic Summer BBQ
One of the most iconic summer activities is gathering in a backyard for a toasty summer BBQ. For a drink to pair with those fiery flavors, try this take on the traditional Moscow mule. It can be made with just a few ingredients, and the sweet ruby red grapefruit flavor adds a refreshing twist, ideal for a day of lounging outside, leaning into the scorching summer heat. Serve these cocktails in copper mugs to keep them cool, even if you're sweating through your shirt.
Grapefruit Moscow Mules
2 ounces Smirnoff Sourced Ruby Red Grapefruit flavored vodka
6 ounces ginger beer
½ ounce fresh lime juice
Sliced grapefruit wedges, for garnish
Ice
Pour Smirnoff Sourced Ruby Red Grapefruit flavored vodka and lime juice over ice. Top off with ginger beer, and serve with a grapefruit wedge. Serves one.
Please drink responsibly. SMIRNOFF SOURCED Flavored Vodka. The Smirnoff Co., Norwalk, CT.
This post is sponsored by Smirnoff Sourced.
Images: Shutterstock
