12 Fresh Gin Drinks to Up Your Cocktail Game

When it comes to your favorite summer cocktails, they almost always include a light liquor, like gin, vodka, or tequila. If you’re tired of margarita recipes, and college ruined vodka for you, refreshing gin drinks are your new go-to. To open up a whole new world beyond the classic G&T, mix these 12 tasty cocktail recipes.

Strawberry Gin Smash Cocktail

When you have a lot of pent-up aggression, the best thing you can do is take it out on some fruit to make a cocktail. This strawberry gin smash will grant you that stress relief while muddling, and relaxation from the refreshing combo of berries and gin. (via The Kitchn)

Apple Bees Knees Cocktail

When the leaves start hinting that summer is coming to a close, apples and rosemary will take over for the berries and basil. (via A Saucy Kitchen)

Basil-Cucumber Gin Cooler

The combination of cucumber and lemon in a beverage is the definition of refreshing. Add to that a nip of gin, a splash of seltzer, and a basil leaf, and you’ll feel as cool as that cucumber. (via Skinnytaste)

Blood Orange Elderflower Gin Cocktail

Thankfully, you probably already have all of the ingredients to make this citrusy cocktail at home. If blood oranges are out of season, navel OJ will do just fine. (via The Little Epicurean)

Blueberry Gin Sour Cocktail

This sour gets a boost of flavor, color, and antioxidants from fresh blueberries. (via Supergolden Bakes)

English Garden Cocktail

With a name like that, you know this drink won’t leave you feeling heavy and sluggish with every sip. In fact, the cucumber, lime, and mint might just help you beat the bloat. (via The Veg Space)

Fig, Vanilla Bean, and Gin Cocktail

Around August and September, the glorious season of fresh figs brings the culinary world to its knees. Stock up while you can and mix up this cocktail in the process. (via The Homemade Haus)

Pomegranate Gin Cocktail

A mere splash of pomegranate juice and soda water are all you need for this slightly sweet cocktail. (via The Yuppie Chef)

Gin, Elderflower, and Prosecco Cocktail

This bubbly elderflower and gin cocktail is perfect for when a Gatsby mood strikes. (via Garnish With Lemon)

Matcha-Gin Cocktail

Anytime a cocktail can make you feel better instead of worse is a very good thing. This matcha and gin drink will give you a quick burst of energy to start, with a relaxing finish and an earthy flavor throughout. (via Tasting Table)

Fresh Peach Gin and Tonic

This Georgia twist on a classic gin and tonic will have you slappin’ your knee, it’s so good. Be sure to save those gin-soaked peaches for a boozy bite when your drink is gone. (via How Sweet It Is)

The Ginger Rogers

Named after Fred Astaire’s elegant dance partner, this invigorating cocktail is made with grapefruit juice, ginger syrup, and gin. (via Broma Bakery)