Summer Focus
John Berens John Berens

Summer Focus

It’s about time we bring some classic Summer flavors into the mix with a #sponsored cocktail brought to you by @TotalWine. Despite not being the world’s biggest watermelon fan (it’s a texture thing), I love the flavor. Today’s drink isn’t too hard to make, but it is absolutely delicious. It takes watermelon syrup (more on that below) and cucumber— which, besides being incredibly refreshing, pairs amazingly with watermelon (they’re actually closely related!). These are joined with some lime, a little dry vermouth, and the star ingredient: a delicious mezcal from @mimamamedijomezcal. I picked this awesome bottle up at @TotalWine, which is an awesome place to get spirits, beer, and of course, wine. You probably already know this if you’re lucky enough to have a store nearby!

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Sgt. Pepper
John Berens John Berens

Sgt. Pepper

While I love making drinks that are clearly food-inspired, I also love making a simple 4-5 ingredient drink that I can quickly make for a group. Simple doesn’t have to mean boring, and this one is packed with flavor. The ingredients just seem made for each other: a spicy and refreshing syrup with habanero and cucumber; an intensely flavorful gin with notes of cilantro, cucumber, lime, and more; and a poblano chili liqueur that brings more vegetal pepper and spice. Bring in some lime juice and a bit of soda water, and you have a thirst-quenching drink that is great for the patio or with dinner. Check out the details below if you want a discount on some of the ingredients!

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Jalpearzu
John Berens John Berens

Jalpearzu

I’m really feeling the summer-y drinks lately, and this one is no exception. At first glance, it might read “heavy” with whisky and brandy in the mix, but the versatility of this lighter Japanese whisky is on full display here and serves as the sturdy anchor that allows this juicy, flavorful highball to come to life.

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Palmer Sessions
John Berens John Berens

Palmer Sessions

This recipe is my entry into this month’s @homebarawards’ session bourbon cocktails— something relatively low ABV and easy to drink more than one. As the temps rise in Texas, I wanted something thirst-quenching to enjoy while hanging out in the sun. The result is somewhere in between an Arnold Palmer and a Whiskey Smash and might be my official drink of Summer 2023.

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