4 Easy Summer Cocktails You Have to Try

If you know me, you know I love cocktails, Taylor Swift, and spending time with my people. These three interests converged when my friend Sabrina Keating and I created the 2 Lavender Lemon Haze Martini. It all began at Sabrina's birthday party where we enjoyed a delicious Lavender Lemon Drop cocktail. Sabrina, a self-taught mixologist, decided to make her own version, and I assisted her. The result, inspired by Taylor Swift’s "Midnights" album, is the Lavender Lemon Haze. Enjoy and please feel free to drink at midnights, when you need to shake something off when you are feelin’22, and forevermore!

Meet one of our new favorite vodka cocktails! Imagine the sweet and juicy kick of strawberries dancing with zesty orange and a cheeky splash of lemon. This delightful trio was inspired by sunny picnics and carefree summer days. The strawberries bring the party with their sweet charm, the orange adds a burst of citrusy excitement, and the lemon finishes with a refreshing zing. It’s like a fruity fiesta in a glass – perfect for sipping, smiling, and savoring the moment!

Recipe:

Inspired by summers on Lake Wedowee, this drink is like sippin’ on sunshine.

3 oz Orange Juice

3 oz Vodka

1 oz Cointreau

2t Simple Syrup

Splash of Lemon Juice

In a cocktail shaker, pour all ingredients over ice. Shake to mix. Serve over ice & garnish with chopped strawberries. Serves 2.

Recipe by Danny Smith

Dive into the Wedowee Watermelon Spritz – a sparkling ode to Lake Wedowee's laid-back charm! This cocktail starts with smooth vodka and juicy watermelon juice, creating a refreshing base that's perfect for hot days by the water. Add in a zesty squeeze of lime, top it with fizzy club soda, and finish it off with a sprig of rosemary for a touch of sophistication. Inspired by lazy afternoons and sunset views on the lake, this spritz is a bubbly celebration of summer. Whether you’re lakeside or just dreaming of it, this drink is sure to transport you to those carefree, sun-drenched moments!

Recipe:

2 oz Watermelon Juice 

1 1/2 oz Vodka 

3 oz Club Soda

 Ice 

Lime Slice 

Rosemary Sprig for Garnish

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to mix, and strain into cocktail class. Squeeze a bit of lime, and garnish with a lime wedge and rosemary sprig. Optionally, you could add some fresh watermelon to the glass.

Introducing the French Blonde – a chic cocktail that blends the elegance of French flavors with the laid-back spirit of a lakeside getaway. This classy concoction starts with the crisp, botanical notes of gin, perfectly complemented by the tangy freshness of grapefruit juice. A splash of St. Germain infuses a hint of floral sweetness, while lemon adds a zesty brightness. The final touch? A pour of Lillet Blanc brings a smooth, slightly fruity finish.

Inspired by the effortless glamor of the French Riviera and the serene charm of Lake Wedowee, the French Blonde is a delightful balance of sophistication and fun. Whether you’re toasting to a beautiful sunset or enjoying a relaxed afternoon by the water, this cocktail promises a taste of elegance with a playful twist. Santé!

Recipe:

2 oz fresh grapefruit juice

2 oz Lillet Blanc

I oz dry gin

1/2 oz St. Germaine

3 dashes of fresh lemon juice

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to mix and strain into a coupe or martini glass.

Recipe by Sabrina Keating