Photo: oneinchpunch (Getty Images)
Spring has finally arrived, and thank goodness for that or we might have drunk until our livers screamed “Uncle!” Now that the temperature is above kill-me-now degrees and we’re no longer vying for parking dibs like we’re in Game of Thrones, our tastes are moving towards lighter spirits and fresher, seasonal ingredients. And we’re OK with that. We’ve had our fill of Scotch, bourbon, cognac, and rye-based cocktails this winter and we’re ready for some spring cocktails.
Cheap swills: The Best Bottles Of Bourbon For Under $30
As the calendar flips, the days elongate, and women’s clothes get skimpier, bartenders update their cocktail menus. We asked some of our favorite bartenders what they’ll be mixing up to calm our spring fever. You can check out all of their answers below.
Spring into drinking: 6 Fresh Gin Cocktails To Jump Start Spring
Follow Mandatory on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Spring Cocktails
-
Gin Gimlet
“Bring me all the Gimlets! They're perfect for that in-between weather, when the sun is bright but the breeze keeps it cool. I make mine with 2 ounces of gin and 1/4 ounce each of lime and simple, so it’s refreshing but still strong enough to be bracing.” – Bryson Downham, beverage director at Toups South in New Orleans
Photo: bLAZER76 (Getty Images)
-
Daiquiri
“My favorite spring cocktail is a classic daiquiri. Leave the blender on the shelf. Lime juice, simple syrup, and white rum – that’s all that’s necessary for the perfect spring drink. It’s also the perfect framework for any springtime flavor you might like to add to cocktails, cucumber, mint, or even strawberry.” – Jack Keane, general manager at Sundry and Vice in Cincinnati
Photo: baibaz (Getty Images)
-
Gin and Tonic
“It is always a tie for me. G&T is a solid lemon-fresh twist for my spring cocktail, but it is always hard letting go of the cooler temperatures. I transition with a Blanco Negroni to start the season. The Negroni captures both the bitterness of winter and the light feel of spring.” – Andrew Holmes, director of food and beverage at The Keep in Columbus
Photo: Image Source (Getty Images)
-
Campari Sour
“My go-to spring cocktail is a Campari sour. Its bitter, tart egg white gives it a silky mouthfeel, and it’s refreshing, like spring.” – Shawn Stanton, bartender at Public House in New York City
Photo: viennetta (Getty Images)
-
Margarita
My favorite spring cocktail is definitely a margarita. It's delicious always, for any time of year but really for spring.” – Ivy Mix, bartender at Leyenda in Brooklyn, New York
Photo: Spencer Jones (Getty Images)
-
Americano
“I’m all about Americanos this spring, and open to variations. The bubbles hydrate against the bittersweet elegance of Campari and sweet vermouth, refreshing the palate while keeping you feeling light.” – Maggie Dandrea, bartender at Hot Tin in New Orleans
Photo: __cpk__photography__ (Getty Images)
-
Aperol Spritz
“Any kind of Spritz all day. But what I really love for these cocktails is Montenegro, Aperol, or Amaro Nonino. These cocktails are super refreshing and the low ABV keeps you going, especially for day drinking.” – Crystal Pavlas, head bartender at Bywater American Bistro in New Orleans
Photo: Ivan Kryvoshei (Getty Images)
-
Mojito
“When it comes to spring in Miami, I think of perfect weather and spring break. Nothing beats the freshness of mint crystals smashed over ice rocks with white sugar and lime. That is why I always recommend a classic mojito or a classic mint julep.” – Cesar Mejias, bartender at Tacology in Miami
Photo: Alexandre Machado / EyeEm (Getty Images)
-
Scotch Highball
“I'm a whiskey and bourbon guy, but a crisp Scotch highball is perfect with the cool spring breeze here in Nashville.” – Benjamin Rouse, bar lead at Henley in Nashville
Photo: imagenavi (Getty Images)
-
Tom Collins
“The Tom Collins is a simple classic that's constantly riffed upon, and for good reason. It's light, delicious, and simple to execute. Just shake lemon, sugar, and gin together, then top with soda over ice, and you're good to go. It's easy to make with sparkling lemonade as well, if you need to serve a large party in a pinch.” – Alex Schmaling, head bartender at Beacon Tavern in Chicago
Photo: SanneBerg (Getty Images)
