The Ultimate Summer Spirits Guide: What to Sip, Mix & Stock This Season

The Ultimate Summer Spirits Guide: What to Sip, Mix & Stock This Season

, by paramjot ghotra, 3 min reading time

The Comprehensive Summer Spirits Guide: Choosing, Mixing & Stocking for the Season

As temperatures rise and gatherings move outdoors, it’s time to refresh your bar cart with summer-ready spirits. Whether you're hosting backyard BBQs, planning beach days, or simply enjoying a sunset on the patio, the right drink makes all the difference.

At Wine Barrel Plus, we've got everything you need to mix, shake, or sip your way through the sunny season.


🌿 1. Botanical Gins for Bright, Herbaceous Cocktails

Gin shines in the summertime thanks to its crisp and refreshing nature. Favorites like Roku Gin, The Botanist, and Empress Cucumber Lemon bring floral, citrus, and herbal flavors that are ideal for spritzes, tonics, or garden-inspired cocktails.

Try This:

  • Cucumber Gin Spritz – Gin, soda water, cucumber ribbons, and a splash of lime


🍉 2. Infused Vodkas That Taste Like Summer

Flavored vodkas like CÎROC Apple, New Amsterdam Peach, and Kettle One Botanical varieties offer low-effort, high-flavor options. Just add soda or tonic, and you’ve got an instant cocktail.

Try This:

  • Apple Fizz – CÎROC Apple + ginger ale + lemon wheel garnish


🍊 3. Ready-to-Drink Cocktails That Travel Well

No bartender? No problem. With canned cocktails like Cutwater Gin Collins, High Noon, and Jack Daniel’s Country Cocktails, you can enjoy quality drinks with zero prep—perfect for picnics, boating, and tailgates.

Try This:

  • Chill and go. No mixing required.


🔥 4. Tequilas & Mezcal: The Spirit of Summer

Nothing says summer like a well-made margarita. Stock up on Dulce Vida Grapefruit, Espolon Blanco, or a smoky mezcal to give your cocktails a bold upgrade.

Try This:

  • Grapefruit Margarita – Dulce Vida Grapefruit Tequila + fresh lime juice + agave syrup + salted rim


🍻 5. Local & Seasonal Brews

Look for light ales and fruit-forward beers like Cheboygan Dark Cherry Blonde or summer wheat beers from regional breweries. Crisp, cold, and sessionable—these are the beers made for sunshine.


🏖️ Bonus Tips for Your Summer Bar Setup

  • Citrus is key: Keep lemons, limes, and oranges on hand for garnishes.

  • Ice matters: Upgrade to large cubes or crushed ice for better presentation and slower dilution.

  • Glassware: Tall Collins glasses and stemless wine glasses are perfect multipurpose options.


Stock Up Today

Ready to sip in style? Browse our summer collection online or visit wine barrel plus  in-store. Whether you're planning a quiet night in or an all-out backyard bash, we’ve got the bottles you need to make it memorable.

Cheers to summer, sunshine, and spirits! 🥂


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