3 Simple Summer Cocktails for the 4th of July

Looking for a quick craft cocktail to whip up for the 4th of July (or any of your summer celebrations)? I’ve put together three simple recipes along with garnishes to take them from plain to party-ready. So grab your cocktail shaker and get to shakin’

Watermelon Sparkler: a simple rośe cocktail refreshing beyond belief

1. Muddle cubed watermelon at the bottom of your glass, the amount of watermelon is your preference. I used 3 large cubes.

2. Fill with a dry rośe, this will help to offset the sweetness of the watermelon keeping it crisp and refreshing.

3. Top with unflavored tonic water.

4. Garnish with a slice of watermelon and pop in a drink stirrer for an added touch.

Blueberry Gin Fizz: a tart and lively cocktail

1. Muddle a small handful of blueberries at the bottom of your glass (you could strain this if you only want the juice, but personally I love the texture and look of the muddled fruit)

2. Pour 1 tablespoon of organic lemon juice (if you prefer a tarter drink, add an additional tablespoon of lemon juice). I used Santa Cruz for my lemon juice—it is so good!

3. Next add 1.5 ounces (or one shot) of Hendrick’s Gin, mix or shake the lemon juice, blueberries and gin together.

4. Pour mixture over a large ice cube and top with unflavored tonic or sparkling water

   optional: add simple syrup if you prefer your drink to be less tart

Strawberry + Stripes Mule: a sweet strawberry mule with a bite

1. Muddle 2-3 large ripened strawberries

2. Add 1.5 ounces (or one shot) of Tito’s Vodka

3. Fill a copper cup to the top with crushed ice—I recommend taking ice in a bag and tapping with a meat tenderizer to create almost a shaved ice effect.

4. Pour your mixture over the ice

5. Top your cocktail with ginger beer to fill the cup—I used Stoli, which has a strong ginger flavor giving your drink a real bite.

6. Garnish with a sprig of thyme and a drink stirrer or paper straw

   optional: add simple syrup if you prefer your drink to be sweeter