5 Thirst-Quenching Drinks to Devour on a Hot Summer Day

‘Tis the season when the sun decides to grace us with its presence for more than 20 minutes a day (well, in vitamin D-deprived Vancouver, anyway). So why not toast to the incoming summer with these boozy, invigorating drinks? These recipes work perfectly for a weekend pool party, a day by the BBQ or kicking back on the couch in an air-conditioned home.

Chasing Summer Cocktail

This recipe from Calgary-based mixologist Ian Storcer is great for gin lovers. It includes the aforementioned gin, Grand Marnier, Aperol, lemon juice, cinnamon syrup and two dashes of Fee Brothers Plum Bitter. Simply shake and strain.

Homemade Limoncello and Citrus

This homemade limoncello recipe ain’t for the impatient (it takes about a month to extract the oils from the lemon zest), but we assure you it’s worth the wait. George Clooney and Danny DeVito are both big fans of the sip, so you know it’s legit.

The Caipirinha

The caipirinha has only three ingredients: Cachaça, raw sugar and lime. This is a great go-to drink when it’s warm and muggy outside. It's simple, cold and quick to make.

Pink Lemonade Cocktail

Fans of lemonade and vodka will find much to love in this sweet-tart concoction from Legend Distilling. Garnish with fresh fruit for extra zest.

Kitsifornia Cobbler

Prefer your cocktails with a wine base? Mix up this fruity and decidedly boozy creation from Vancouver’s Reflections, which uses both vodka and ice wine to get you to a fine level of buzz.