Summer BBQ Mixes
Sizzle your summer BBQs with these 15 tantalizing cocktail concoctions that add zest to every gathering. From fruity splashes to bold twists on classics, discover the perfect pours that elevate your grilling game and keep the party vibes soaring.
There's nothing quite like a summer BBQ, where the smoky aroma of grilled delights mingles with the laughter of friends and family. But why settle for the usual beverages when you can elevate your outdoor feast with unique cocktail mixes? Introducing our handpicked selection of 15 stunning summer BBQ cocktails that promise to tantalize your taste buds and refresh your palate.
The Berry Mojito is perfect for those who crave a burst of berry goodness with every sip. With a refreshing blend of raspberry, mint, and lime, this cocktail is a summer staple that pairs beautifully with grilled meats and fresh salads.
For those who appreciate a twist on the classic, our Maple Old Fashioned adds a delicious, earthy sweetness with its hint of maple syrup that plays well with the richness of bourbon. Or perhaps, you’d prefer the intriguing complexity of the Tipsy Arnold Palmer, where tea meets bourbon for a truly unique experience.
And let's not forget the adventurous souls ready to spice things up with the Spicy Rum Sour. Its tantalizing kick of chili peppers, combined with the smoothness of rum and the tang of lime, ensures a flavor explosion.
Filter
Features 15 cocktails
1. Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned
For those seeking a thrilling and bold addition to their BBQ gathering, the Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned is a must-try cocktail that masterfully combines heat, sweetness, and bitterness in every sip. Perfectly crafted for adventurous palates, this drink features the rich depth of bourbon, spiced up with fresh jalapeño slices for a fiery kick. The herbal notes of Amaro beautifully complement the spice, adding an intriguing bittersweet layer to the mix. Rounded off with a touch of sugar and a dash of Angostura Bitters, the Jalapeño Amaro Old Fashioned is an intricate and smooth cocktail, making it a standout choice for those who enjoy exploring daring flavor profiles at their summer BBQ.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Muddle fresh jalapeño slices with sugar and bitters in a glass, releasing the heat and flavors of the pepper
-
- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon and Amaro
-
- Stir until well chilled
-
- Strain into a glass with fresh ice, ensuring no jalapeño bits remain
-
- Garnish with a jalapeño slice and an orange peel for an aromatic finish
2. Rosemary Old Fashioned
The Rosemary Old Fashioned brings an aromatic infusion to the classic bourbon cocktail with its distinctive herbal touch, making it a standout choice for our Summer BBQ Mixes. This elegant drink blends the rich, bold flavors of bourbon with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, subtly sweetened with sugar and rounded out with a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. Served in a lowball glass, this cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated and refined drink with a hint of herbaceous allure. Ideal for sipping leisurely as the sun sets over your barbecue gathering, the Rosemary Old Fashioned is a delightful addition to any summer outdoor celebration, offering a nuanced flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with smoky, grilled fare.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Muddle rosemary with sugar and 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters in a glass until the rosemary releases its oils
-
- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
-
- Stir well to combine and chill the drink
-
- Fine strain into another glass with fresh ice to ensure no rosemary bits are left in the drink
-
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a twist of lemon for an extra aromatic touch
3. Campfire Crackle
Embrace the spirit of a cozy evening by the fire with the intriguing and flavorful Campfire Crackle. This cocktail melds together the rich warmth of whiskey with the sweet depth of crème de cassis, rounded out by the crispness of apple juice and the aromatic spice of cinnamon. It's a delightful concoction that brings a touch of autumn to your summer BBQ, making it a perfect choice for those balmy nights when the air starts to cool and the conversation is as warm as the company. Served in a lowball glass and boasting a moderate alcohol content, the Campfire Crackle offers a sophisticated sip that pairs wonderfully with smoky grilled dishes, inviting guests to linger a little longer as the sun sets and stars begin to twinkle.
Ingredients
Method
-
- In a heatproof jug, combine the whisky and crème de cassis
-
- In a small pan, gently warm the apple juice with the cinnamon sticks for 15 minutes, taking care not to let it simmer
-
- Pour the warm juice into the jug and stir to combine
-
- Serve in heatproof mugs while still warm
4. Michelada
The Michelada is a quintessential addition to our Summer BBQ Mixes, offering a tantalizing blend of spice and refreshment that embodies the carefree spirit of outdoor gatherings. This classic Mexican beer cocktail, with its modest 4% alcohol content, is a perfect way to stay cool while mingling with family and friends. The Michelada combines the crisp effervescence of lager with a zesty splash of lime juice, invigorated by the piquant kick from Worcestershire and Tabasco sauces. Served in a highball glass, this cocktail's unique flavor profile is both a tribute to its rich, cultural heritage and a delightful choice for those seeking a lively and savory alternative to sweeter beverages. Whether you're kicking back after a day in the sun or looking to enhance the flavors of your barbecue feast, the Michelada stands ready to make your summer party a memorable celebration.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Start by filling your glass with ice cubes to keep your drink chilled throughout the process
-
- Then, gently add 2 dashes of Tabasco Sauce, 12.5ml of Lime juice, 5ml of Worcestershire Sauce, and top up with Lager over the ice, ensuring they mix well
-
- Give the contents a gentle stir for about 10-15 seconds, blending them together smoothly
-
- Finally, take a moment to taste and adjust any flavors if needed, adding a little more of any ingredient to perfect your drink
-
- Cheers to crafting a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail!
5. Maple Old Fashioned
The Maple Old Fashioned is a delightful addition to our Summer BBQ Mixes, offering a sophisticated twist on a timeless classic. With its blend of bourbon, Angostura bitters, and just a touch of maple syrup, this cocktail enhances the traditional Old Fashioned with warm, earthy sweetness that complements the smoky flavors of a summer barbecue. Served cold and stirred to perfection in a lowball glass, it provides a rich, mellow sip that's both comforting and refined. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor gathering or simply enjoy a layered, aromatic drink, the Maple Old Fashioned is a standout choice that never fails to impress.
Ingredients
Method
-
- In a mixing glass, combine maple syrup and bitters
-
- Add bourbon and ice, then stir until well chilled
-
- Strain into a lowball glass over a large ice cube
-
- Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness and color
6. Smoky Islay Old Fashioned
Among our curated selection of summer BBQ cocktails, the Smoky Islay Old Fashioned stands out for those who savor intense, bold flavors. This cocktail combines the robust peatiness of Islay Scotch whisky with a hint of mezcal, introducing an exquisite smokiness that enhances the rich, grilled flavors typical of a summer BBQ. With its balanced mix of sweetness, bitterness, and complexity, it's the ideal choice for anyone looking to add a sophisticated touch to their outdoor gathering. Served in a lowball glass, this stirred cocktail is a testament to the art of blending distinctive spirits to create something truly special.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Combine whiskey, mezcal, and Angostura bitters in a mixing glass with ice
-
- Stir until well chilled
-
- Add sugar and stir until dissolved
-
- Strain into a glass with a large ice cube
-
- For an extra smoky touch, lightly torch a piece of wood or rosemary sprig, capturing the smoke in the glass before serving
-
- Garnish with a smoked orange peel for added aroma
7. Honey Old Fashioned
The Honey Old Fashioned earns its spot on our Summer BBQ Mixes list by offering a sophisticated, yet subtly sweet alternative for bourbon enthusiasts. This elegant twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail combines the bold, deep flavors of bourbon with the gentle sweetness and floral notes of honey, adding an enjoyable complexity to your summer soirée. With its smooth and slightly warming profile, this cocktail pairs wonderfully with grilled meats and acts as a soothing companion as you unwind in the evening air. Stirred to perfection and served in a lowball glass, the Honey Old Fashioned is the perfect drink for those who appreciate tradition with a sweet nod to nature's own nectar.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Start by gently warming the honey if it’s too thick to mix easily
-
- Add the honey and 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters to a glass, stirring until well combined
-
- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
-
- Stir until well chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice
-
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel
8. Tipsy Arnold Palmer
Among our selection of dazzling summer BBQ cocktails, the Tipsy Arnold Palmer stands out as a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite. Named after the iconic golfer, this cocktail is a vibrant blend of tart lemon juice and sweet, robust black tea, perfectly balanced to offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The addition of bourbon elevates the drink with its smooth, oaky notes, transforming it into a delightful beverage that complements the flavors of BBQ meats and smoky grilled dishes. Finished with the subtle aromatics of orange and lemon zest, this cocktail is best served in a pitcher, making it a shared delight for gatherings with friends and family. Its unique blend of flavors and its refreshing character make it a quintessential choice for your summer BBQ festivities.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Place four tea bags in a large bowl with the sugar and the zest of one orange and one lemon, and pour four cups of boiling water over the top
-
- Stir until all the sugar has dissolved, and then cover and leave to steep for five minutes
-
- Strain into a pitcher, discarding the tea bags and zest
-
- Add four cups of cold water, along with the bourbon and lemon juice
-
- Chill and serve over ice with a lemon peel garnish
9. Berry Mojito
The Berry Mojito is a standout addition to our Summer BBQ Mixes, offering a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Mojito that's perfect for any outdoor feast. Its origins trace back to the Caribbean, where the use of fresh raspberries infuses the drink with a vibrant berry burst that's both tart and sweet. With white rum as its base, complemented by the zing of lime juice and refreshing mint leaves, this cocktail is beautifully balanced. Topped off with a hint of fizz from soda water and garnished with plump raspberries, the Berry Mojito is not only visually appealing but also a delightful thirst-quencher for hot summer days. Whether you're indulging under the sun or savoring the stars, this cocktail harmonizes perfectly with grilled dishes and light salads, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast looking to elevate their BBQ experience.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Muddle the mint leaves with the sugar and lime juice directly in a highball glass
-
- Add in some ice cubes and 3-4 raspberries, then pour over the rum before topping up with soda water and giving it a quick stir
-
- Garnish with a strawberry and serve
10. Maple Old Fashioned
Elevate your summer BBQ with the exquisite Maple Old Fashioned, a refined twist on the beloved classic that earns its spot among our stunning summer cocktails by seamlessly blending rich flavor with warm charm. This cocktail delicately balances bourbon's character with the sweet, earthy undertones of maple syrup, producing a flavor profile that's both smooth and inviting. The addition of Angostura bitters enriches the drink with aromatic complexity, while a fresh orange peel twist adds a zesty brightness, making it a perfect accompaniment to grilled dishes and warm evenings. Served chilled in a lowball glass, the Maple Old Fashioned offers a sophisticated yet cozy option for those who appreciate classic elegance with a modern twist.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Add two ice cubes to a glass and stir in half of the bourbon
-
- Add the maple syrup and bitters and two more ice cubes
-
- Stir some more before adding in two more ice cubes
-
- Add the rest of the bourbon and stir so as to melt the ice
-
- Add some fresh ice
-
- Garnish with an orange peel twist and serve
11. Pumpkin Whiskey Smash
The Pumpkin Whiskey Smash is a surprising addition to our list of summer BBQ cocktails, bringing a touch of autumnal warmth with its unique blend of flavors. This cocktail captures the spirit of fall with spiced pumpkin syrup, but pairs wonderfully with summer’s vibrant warmth. The smoothness of whiskey, combined with a splash of orange juice and the effervescent zing of ginger beer, delivers a refreshing twist that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little seasonal fusion at their BBQ. Served cold in a lowball glass, it’s a sophisticated choice that bridges the gap between summer heat and fall’s comforting embrace, making it a memorable drink for any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients
Method
-
- In a shaker, combine pumpkin syrup, whiskey, orange juice, and orange bitters
-
- Add ice and shake well
-
- Strain into a glass, and if desired, top with ginger beer
-
- Serve immediately
12. Spicy Rum Sour
For those bold souls looking to turn up the heat at their summer BBQ, the Spicy Rum Sour is a fiery addition you can’t overlook. Nestled within our lineup of 15 stellar cocktail selections, this drink introduces a daring combination of spiced rum and a tantalizing hint of chili pepper. The fusion of lime and pineapple juice adds a refreshing citrusy kick, while the smooth frothiness of egg white rounds out the sip, making it both an adventurous and refreshing choice. This cocktail not only complements the smoky flavors of the grill but also brings an unexpected zing that promises to both surprise and delight your guests. Serve it in a lowball glass and let the bold flavors invigorate your summer gathering.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
-
- Add the spiced rum, lime juice, pineapple juice, sugar syrup, one small slice of red chili, and the egg white
-
- Shake vigorously for 10 seconds
-
- Strain into a Nick & Nora glass and garnish with a whole red chili
-
- Serve and enjoy!
13. Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned
Indulge your senses with the sophisticated and irresistible Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned, a luxurious addition to our Summer BBQ Mixes that elevates any outdoor gathering with its decadent flavors. This cocktail is for those who relish a touch of elegance in their glass, offering a seamless blend of rich bourbon, sweet cherry syrup, and the velvety depth of chocolate bitters. Enhanced by a dash of Angostura, the Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned delivers a flavor profile that feels like a dessert in a glass, providing a sweet conclusion or a captivating companion to your smoky BBQ fare. It's the perfect choice for those looking to savor a drink that feels both classic and opulent as the sun sets on your summer festivities.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Add cherry syrup, chocolate bitters, and Angostura bitters to a glass
-
- Stir to combine the ingredients
-
- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
-
- Stir until well chilled and strain into a glass with fresh ice
-
- Garnish with a cherry and a chocolate-dipped orange slice for extra decadence
14. Closing Argument
At any summer BBQ, the Closing Argument makes a compelling case for sophistication with its intriguing blend of flavors. Featuring an equal measure of lime juice, mezcal, green Chartreuse, and maraschino cherry, this cocktail stands out for its complexity and depth—a perfect reflection of a well-orchestrated evening under the stars. Served in a cocktail glass, it offers a delightful journey of smoky, sour, sweet, and herbal notes that will captivate both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and adventurous newcomers alike. Whether you conclude your feast or celebrate a triumphant grill session, the Closing Argument guarantees a memorable toast, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor gathering.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Start by adding all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes
-
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold and frosted
-
- Next, grab a glass from the fridge or freezer to ensure it's nicely chilled
-
- Carefully strain the mixture from the shaker into the chilled glass, leaving the ice behind
-
- Finally, for a touch of elegance or additional flavor, consider garnishing the drink according to the cocktail's character
15. Blackberry Bramble
Among our curated selection of summer BBQ cocktails, the Blackberry Bramble offers a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a sunny afternoon gathering. Crafted with care at the heart of Virginia’s vibrant orchard scene, this cocktail seamlessly combines the rich, whiskey warmth with a refreshing burst of freshly-picked blackberries. A dash of lime and a hint of sugar round off this spirited mix, creating a harmonious balance that's sure to please your palate. Whether you're enjoying a backyard grill or a cozy patio festivity, the Blackberry Bramble stands out as a tribute to local craftsmanship and natural bounty, making it an exquisite choice for those looking to sip on something truly memorable.
Ingredients
Method
-
- Crush blackberries with a little sugar and cook into a simple syrup
-
- Pour whisky into a clean, clear cocktail glass
-
- Add the blackberry syrup, a splash of lime juice and some ice, then stir
-
- Garnish the Blackberry Bramble with a sprig of mint and cocktail stick adorned with two or three fresh blackberries on the top, then serve
Conclusion
Upgrade your mixology
Become a member for free taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. Or become a premium member to rise to cocktail greatness.
- Save your bar forever
- Access to our Cocktail Creator, allowing you to create your own wonderful concoctions.
- Create personalised cocktail menus for all your events, bars or parties
- Save cocktails to personalised 'Tried' and 'Want to try' lists
- Create and record tasting notes on cocktails
- Create lists of cocktails to share with friends and family
- A personalised MyBar URL, allowing you to share everything you can make with friends
- And much more ... (what to buy next, measurement choices, search personalisation...)
Have you tried our Wordpress Plugin?
Download our plugin and embed cocktail recipes directly onto your own site or blog.
Choose from our whole recipe database, or choose a specific cocktail made with a certain ingredient, and let us place a beautiful recipe on your own site.
Find out moreOther lists you might like
Fireside Sips: Cocktails to Warm Up Your Bonfire Night
By Make me a cocktail
Sex and the City Cocktails
By Make me a cocktail
Great Looking Drinks
By Make me a cocktail
Easy Christmas Cocktail Recipes
By Make me a cocktail