As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, there’s nothing quite like sipping a refreshing gin cocktail to cap off the day. The classic spirit gets a bad rap, often relegated to a humble role as a mixer in other drinks. But when given the spotlight, gin can shine brightly, offering a world of flavors and possibilities.
To help you make the most of this versatile spirit, we’ve gathered 18 refreshing gin cocktail recipes perfect for sizzling summer nights. From classic twists on the gin and tonic to innovative fusions featuring cucumber, mint, and more, these drinks are sure to quench your thirst and leave you feeling cool as a cucumber.
So grab your favorite glassware, chill those bottles of gin, and get ready to shake (and stir) things up with our collection of summer-perfect cocktails!
Classic Gin and Tonic with a Twist of Lime
Sip on the quintessential combination of gin, tonic water, and lime, elevated by a touch of citrusy flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces (45 ml) London Dry Gin
– 4-6 ounces (120-180 ml) tonic water
– Juice of 1/2 lime
– Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the gin and top with tonic water.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice, releasing the citrusy aroma.
4. Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel, adding a pop of color and fragrance.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Elderflower Gin Fizz with Cucumber
This Elderflower Gin Fizz with Cucumber is a light and airy cocktail perfect for warm weather. The combination of elderflower liqueur, gin, cucumber, and lemon juice creates a crisp and refreshing drink that’s sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
– 3/4 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup ice
– Slice of cucumber, for garnish
– Club soda
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the elderflower liqueur, gin, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with a slice of cucumber.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just shake, strain, and serve.
Raspberry Gin Smash with Fresh Mint
A refreshing twist on the classic gin smash, this recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the brightness of fresh mint and a splash of gin. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the raspberries with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavor and color.
2. Add gin, simple syrup, and lime juice to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add fresh mint leaves to the glass and gently press them with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Gin Basil Smash with Lemon Juice
This recipe combines the botanicals of gin with the brightness of lemon and the sweetness of basil, perfect for warm weather or anytime you want a refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3-4 sprigs of fresh basil leaves
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the basil sprigs to the shaker and muddle (gently press) them against the side of the shaker to release their oils and flavor.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
5. Garnish with an additional basil sprig, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink!
Negroni with Orange Peel Garnish
Classic Negroni with Orange Peel Garnish Recipe
Elevate your cocktail game with this timeless classic, paired with a vibrant orange peel garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– Slice of orange peel (about 1 inch)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish:
1. Hold the orange peel slice between your thumb and index finger, with the pith side facing up.
2. Gently squeeze the peel over the drink to release its oils and aroma.
3. Place the peel slice on top of the cocktail, allowing it to float or bend slightly to create a visually appealing garnish.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail recipe!)
French 75 with Gin and Champagne
The French 75 is a timeless cocktail that combines the crispness of gin, the sweetness of lemon, and the effervescence of champagne. This elegant drink is perfect for special occasions or as a sophisticated addition to your cocktail repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup champagne
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a champagne flute or wine glass.
5. Top with champagne, holding back the foam with a spoon if desired.
6. If desired, add simple syrup to balance the flavors.
7. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just 15 seconds of shaking.
Gin Martini with a Dirty Olive Twist
Elevate your martini game with this refreshing twist on the classic Gin Martini. The addition of dirty olives takes it to the next level, providing a savory and umami flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz dry vermouth
– 1/4 oz green olive brine
– Dirty olives (green or black) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin and vermouth over the ice.
3. Add the green olive brine to the mixture.
4. Stir the ingredients together for approximately 30 seconds.
5. Strain the martini into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with dirty olives.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a drink recipe!
Tom Collins with Homemade Lemon Syrup
A refreshing twist on the classic Tom Collins cocktail, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor from homemade lemon syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz homemade lemon syrup (see below)
– 4 oz club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Homemade Lemon Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Let cool completely.
3. To make the cocktail:
+ Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
+ Add gin, lime juice, and homemade lemon syrup.
+ Shake until chilled.
+ Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice.
+ Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None required. Simply prepare the lemon syrup ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Bramble Cocktail with Blackberry Liqueur
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this classic cocktail, elevated by the rich taste of blackberry liqueur. Perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Lemon juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz Blackberry liqueur
– Splash of sparkling water
– Fresh blackberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add blackberry liqueur and stir gently to combine.
6. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
7. Garnish with fresh blackberries.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail!
Gin Rickey with Lime and Soda Water
A refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, this Gin Rickey combines the crispness of lime with the effervescence of soda water.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– 4 oz soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the gin and lime juice.
3. Top with soda water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Express a lime wheel over the drink and place it on the rim of the glass.
Cooking Time: None! (This is a cocktail, after all!)
Enjoy your refreshing Gin Rickey with Lime and Soda Water!
Aviation Cocktail with Crème de Violette
This timeless cocktail is a perfect blend of citrusy notes, herbal undertones, and subtle floral hints. With its unique flavor profile, it’s no wonder the Aviation has become a modern classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Gin
– 1/2 oz Maraschino Liqueur
– 1/2 oz Crème de Violette
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
– Dash of Simple Syrup (optional)
– Lemon twist or cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, Maraschino Liqueur, and Crème de Violette.
3. Squeeze in the lemon juice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. If desired, add a dash of simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved) to balance the flavors.
7. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.
Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed drink, not a cooked one.
Southside Cocktail with Fresh Lime and Mint
This refreshing cocktail is a twist on the classic Southside, adding a burst of citrus flavor from fresh lime juice and a hint of minty freshness. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Gin Gimlet with Rose Water Infusion
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing take on the classic Gin Gimlet, infused with the subtle sweetness of rose water.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
– 1/4 oz rose water infusion (see below)
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Rose Water Infusion:
– 1 cup rose petals, dried or fresh
– 1 cup boiling water
– Let steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain and discard solids.
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and rose water infusion.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of rose water to your taste. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.
– For a stronger flavor, let the rose water infusion steep for a longer time or use more petals.
Pink Gin Cocktail with Angostura Bitters
This iconic cocktail is a staple of the classic era, featuring a delicate balance of gin, citrus, and bitters. The subtle bitterness from the Angostura Bitters adds depth to this crisp and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz (45ml) gin
– 3/4 oz (22.5ml) freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz (15ml) simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Orange twist or wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Corpse Reviver No. 2 with Lillet Blanc
This classic cocktail, also known as “The Resurrection,” is a potent blend of gin, Lillet Blanc, and citrus that’s sure to revive even the most exhausted spirits.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Dash of absinthe
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and honey syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Add a dash of absinthe on top (optional).
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in minutes.
Gin Sour with Egg White Foam
A twist on the classic Gin Sour, this recipe adds a silky egg white foam to elevate the drink’s texture and complexity.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz gin
• 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 1 egg white
• Dash of Angostura bitters
• Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Crack in the egg white and add a dash of Angostura bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to emulsify the egg white and combine flavors.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Create foam by whipping an additional egg white until frothy, then spooning it on top of the drink.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)
Clover Club with Raspberry and Vermouth
This elegant cocktail combines the classic Clover Club recipe with sweet and tangy raspberry puree and a hint of complexity from vermouth. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sophisticated drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz raspberry puree
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz vermouth
– Dash of club soda
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, lemon juice, raspberry puree, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add vermouth and stir gently to combine.
6. Top with club soda and garnish with fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: None (this is a cocktail!)
White Lady with Gin and Triple Sec
The White Lady is a classic cocktail that combines the crispness of gin, the sweetness of triple sec, and the richness of citrus. This recipe is a variation that adds an extra layer of sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None required!
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing gin cocktail recipes. From classic combinations to innovative twists, there’s something for every palate. Try the Classic Gin and Tonic with a squeeze of lime, or get creative with the Elderflower Gin Fizz featuring cucumber and mint. Other standouts include the Raspberry Gin Smash, Negroni, and French 75. Each recipe combines gin with unique flavors like blackberry liqueur, rose water, and egg white foam to create a drink that’s as cool as it is delicious. Cheers to a summer of sipping in style!
