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Summer cocktails are one of the best things to enjoy during the warmer months. They are refreshing and fun and go with all your favorite warm-weather meals and snacks. That’ 's why you need to pay special attention to them when curating your beverage menu. There are plenty of trendy summer cocktails you can include in your offers, as well as unique cocktails and mocktails.
However, today, we want to talk about the summer gin cocktails that will make your customers come back for more. Gin is a type of alcohol that is used in many classic cocktails and is well-loved all over the world. That’s why there is no doubt you already have a bunch of gin bottles in your beverage inventory and you also have some custom gin drinks on your cocktail list.
From everyone’s favorite gin and tonic to French 75 and Martini, there is a lot you can serve even if you are not feeling creative. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t do something unique to attract more people to your bar or restaurant. Work with a mixologist or a cocktail expert to create unique summer gin cocktails or elevate well-known recipes. If this sounds like a great idea to you, read the following paragraph to gather inspiration!
Why Serve Summer Gin Cocktails at Your Bar and Restaurant?
Serving summer gin cocktails at your bar and restaurant is a fantastic idea for several reasons. First and foremost, gin is an incredibly versatile spirit that pairs well with a wide range of cocktail ingredients. This makes it perfect for creative and refreshing summer drinks.
The complex botanical flavors in gin can be highlighted and enhanced with fresh fruits, herbs, and mixers that are abundant in the summer. This versatility allows you to make a variety of cocktails, appealing to a broad audience. Don’t forget to take advantage of gin spices, too!
People love gin because of its distinctive and sophisticated flavor profile. Unlike other spirits, gin's botanicals provide a unique base. The classic appeal of gin cocktails makes them a favorite among both traditionalists and those seeking new experiences. Additionally, gin is often perceived as a lighter spirit, making it an attractive choice for summer when people generally prefer lighter, more refreshing beverages.
Key Takeaway: Summer gin cocktails go perfectly with a wide variety of food and customers really enjoy them when it’s hot outside. Get inspired and create different cocktails than those your competitors are offering to stand out from the crowd.
Food and Snack Pairings for Summer Gin Cocktails
We have more good news for everyone interested in serving more summer gin cocktails! These drinks pair well with lots of delicious meals and snacks that your customers will love. A good drink and food pairing can go a long way and may earn you a regular customer. So don’t underestimate the power of great cocktails and delicious food. Let’s dive deeper into that!
1. Seafood Dishes
Seafood dishes are always a good idea, especially in the summertime! The crisp, clean flavors of summer gin cocktails pair wonderfully with seafood. Think shrimp cocktails, oysters, ceviche, or grilled fish. The acidity and freshness of the drinks enhance the delicate flavors of the seafood. That’s a pairing that will leave your guests wanting more!
2. Fresh Salads
You can’t go wrong with a fresh salad and refreshing cocktail when it’s hot outside. That’s why, as a restaurant owner, you need to plan well and offer a good variety of delicious salads. Light, fresh salads with ingredients like mixed greens, citrus fruits, avocados, and light vinaigrettes are great options. The herbal notes in summer gin cocktails will complement the fresh, vibrant flavors of the salads.
3. Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
A well-curated cheese and charcuterie board pair perfectly with gin cocktails! Soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie, along with cured meats such as prosciutto or salami, can balance the botanical elements in summer gin cocktails. Charcuterie boards are also very popular right now and people would love to see them on your menu!
4. Light Appetizers
Items like bruschetta, crostini topped with fresh ingredients, or light flatbreads can be delightful with different types of gin cocktails. These options are not too heavy and allow the flavors of the cocktails to shine through. The appetizers will surely go well with other items on your menu, including summer wines.
5. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini bring out the earthy and herbal notes in gin. They also add a smoky flavor that can contrast nicely with the freshness of the cocktails. Grilled veggies are also an amazing side to steaks and other meat, which many restaurantgoers like to order.
6. Tropical Fruits and Desserts
Summer and fruit go hand in hand. Serving tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, or papaya can enhance the fruity elements of summer gin cocktails, which will make the experience of your customers even better. These fruits can be served fresh, grilled, or as part of a fruit salad. Think about ice cream and other desserts you can create with these delicious fruits.
Summer Gin Cocktails to Add to the Beverage Menu
Wondering what summer gin cocktails to serve exactly? We want to give you a few ideas. You can serve these cocktails or use them as a base to create something more unique for your specific business. Here are the ones we recommend:
- Cucumber Mint Gin Cooler - this summer gin cocktail is made with gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, cucumber slices, fresh mint leaves, and soda water.
- Strawberry Basil Gin Smash - the ingredients in this cocktail include gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, fresh strawberries, fresh basil leaves, and soda water.
- Grapefruit Rosemary Gin Fizz - to make this delicious drink, you need gin, fresh grapefruit juice, rosemary syrup, and soda water.
- Blueberry Lavender Gin Sour - for this cocktail drink you need gin, fresh lemon juice, lavender syrup, and a handful of blueberries. You can add an egg white, too.
- Peach Ginger Gin Mule - mix gin, fresh lime juice, ginger syrup, peach puree, and ginger beer to create this drink.
- Raspberry Lemon Gin Spritz - gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and prosecco wine are the ingredients for one of the most delicious summer gin cocktails you can make.
There are many more great summer gin cocktails you can make with different fruits, spices, and other drink mixers. Don’t limit yourself to the classics and experiment with different flavors. You never know when you are going to invent the next big hit in the world of gin cocktails!
Frequently Asked Questions about Summer Gin Cocktails
If you want to know more about the different summer gin cocktails you can add to your drinks menu, read our answers to the most frequently asked questions on the topic.
How Should I Serve Summer Gin Cocktails to Enhance Their Appeal?
Serve summer gin cocktails in appropriate glassware, such as highball, Collins, or wine glasses, to enhance their presentation. Use plenty of ice to keep the drinks chilled and refreshing. Garnish with fresh fruits, herbs, or edible flowers to add a visual appeal and an aromatic touch. Ensure that the garnishes complement the flavors of the cocktail.
Can Gin Cocktails Be Prepared in Batches for Large Gatherings?
Yes! Many gin cocktails can be prepared in batches for large gatherings. Mix the ingredients (excluding carbonated components) in a large pitcher or dispenser and store it in the refrigerator. Add ice and any carbonated ingredients just before serving to ensure the drink remains fresh and bubbly. Offer garnishes on the side for guests to customize their drinks.
Are There Any Low-Alcohol or Non-alcoholic Gin Cocktails Suitable for Summer?
Yes. Low-alcohol and non-alcoholic gin cocktails are perfect for summer. For a low-alcohol cocktail option, consider using a lower-proof gin or reducing the amount of gin in the cocktail and adding more mixers. For a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic gin alternatives that provide the botanical flavors of gin without the alcohol. These can be mixed with the same fresh ingredients to create a refreshing and sophisticated mocktail.