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20 cocktails you must try this summer
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20 cocktails you must try this summer

Summer is the season for trying new cocktails, right? Take our word for it. If you haven't tried these drinks yet, you want to. Trust us. 

 
1 of 20

Ranch water

Ranch water
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Ranch water might sound like a watered-down version of your favorite salad dressing, but it’s actually just a margarita without all the sugar. It’s a favorite of many, and it could become your favorite this summer, too. 

 
2 of 20

Naked and Famous

Naked and Famous
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They say that tequila makes your clothes come off. Put that theory to the test with an aptly named summer cocktail, the Naked and Famous. This drink features mezcal (tequila’s cousin), Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice for a flirty, fun summery refreshment. 

 
3 of 20

Lemon drop martini

Lemon drop martini
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A lemon drop martini is by no means a new drink, but it’s worth mentioning in case you’ve never tried it before. It screams summer, and it’s easy to make. A lemon drop is a great change of pace in the summer for martini fans. 

 
4 of 20

Paloma

Paloma
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Another classic tequila drink, a paloma, is perfect for anyone who likes fruity, citrusy drinks. Made with grapefruit soda and lime juice, a paloma is a delicious route to go this summer if you’ve never tried the drink. 

 
5 of 20

Dirty Shirley

Dirty Shirley
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Not everyone likes tequila, and for those people, we present the Dirty Shirley. It’s the grown-up version of a Shirley Temple. The same recipe with the addition of vodka. What’s not to love?

 
6 of 20

Michelada

Michelada
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Anyone who enjoys a Bloody Mary should give a Michelada a try. Instead of vodka, you’re drinking beer, and the flavor profile is slightly different (a tad more citrusy, for one), but a Michelada is pretty similar to a Bloody Mary and just as good. 

 
7 of 20

Campari spritz

Campari spritz
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An Aperol spritz has had its moment for long enough. There are many other spritzes to try, including a Campari spritz. It’s the perfect summer patio drink, especially if you’re visiting a new city. 

 
8 of 20

Porŋ star martini

Porŋ star martini
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Vanilla vodka, sparkling wine, passion fruit, you’ll love a Porŋ star martini. Whether you advocate for the name of the drink is a different issue. 

 
9 of 20

Sex on the Beach

Sex on the Beach
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You’ve most certainly heard of a Sex on the Beach, but have you actually tried one? If not, take the opportunity to do so this summer. It’s peachy, orangey, and cranberry-y. You’ll love it even if you’re not doing you know what you know where. 

 
10 of 20

Piña colada

Piña colada
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Another classic summertime drink that you might not have ever actually had, a piña colada blends all sorts of tropical flavors into one delicious drink. It will instantly transport you to a fabulous beach, even if you’re nowhere near one. 

 
11 of 20

Tomato martini

Tomato martini
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Need a companion for your BLTs this summer? How about a tomato martini? If you can’t get enough of the little red, vegetable-tasting fruit, you’ve got to try it in cocktail form. It’ll be especially tasty in August. 

 
12 of 20

French 75

French 75
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You can have a mimosa any time, but if you’re looking for something different to sip on this summer, opt for a French 75. You’ll still get to enjoy champagne, but this will bring a welcome change with the addition of lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin. 

 
13 of 20

Frozen gin and tonic

Frozen gin and tonic
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When the dog days of summer hit, the only thing to do to get through them is take your favorite cocktail and turn it into a frozen libation. Okay, that’s not the only method of survival, but a frozen gin and tonic will help beat the heat. 

 
14 of 20

Frozen espresso martini

Frozen espresso martini
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Everybody loves an espresso martini, and the best way to make them even more summery is by having them frozen. It’s the elevated way to have adults-only ice cream. 

 
15 of 20

Pink Squirrel

Pink Squirrel
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Another great ice cream drink to try this summer is a Pink Squirrel. It’s full of flavor and maraschino cherries, and it’s got a pink hue that’s gorgeous for summer. You’ll feel refreshed and tipsy at the same time. 

 
16 of 20

Honey deuce

Honey deuce
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You’ve seen the patrons of the U.S. Open drinking honey deuces, and it’s time to see what all the hype is about. There are some canned versions of the drink, but you can make one at home or order one while you’re out, too. 

 
17 of 20

Bahama Mama

Bahama Mama
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Summer is the season for tropical cocktails, even if you’re not on vacation. If you’re someone who likes to drink like you’re visiting the tropics, treat yourself to a Bahama Mama. Rum, grenadine, orange juice, and pineapple juice? A dream. 

 
18 of 20

Mai Tai

Mai Tai
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There’s something so satisfying about ordering a drink that rhymes. There’s something even more satisfying about enjoying a Mai Tai. 

 
19 of 20

Peach sangria

Peach sangria
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You’ve got to take advantage of the fresh summer fruits while you can. Peaches hit their stride in the middle of summer, so if you’ve never had peach sangria before, that’s the time to try it. 

 
20 of 20

Hibiscus spritz

Hibiscus spritz
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Remember when we said there are far more spritzes in the world than just Aperol? Well, another one worth trying is a hibiscus spritz. It takes the most beautiful summer flower available and turns it into a refreshing summer cocktail. You’ll be glad you tried it. 

Acacia Deadrick

Acacia Deadrick is a South Dakota-based writer who has written for sites such as Nicki Swift, The List, and Glam. She loves music and all things pop culture, and she can be found watching TV, completing a crossword puzzle, or reading in her spare time. 

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