The June Bug

The June Bug is fun, fruity, and easy to sip. It’s made with melon liqueur, banana liqueur, coconut rum, and pineapple juice, giving it a tropical flavor that’s sweet but not over the top. The melon and banana bring smooth, fruity notes, while the pineapple adds a bit of tartness to keep it balanced. It’s bright, colorful, and perfect for summer parties, beach days, or anytime you want a lighthearted drink that’s simple to enjoy. If you like drinks that are playful and full of fruit flavor, the June Bug is a solid choice that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

---

Tasting Notes

The June Bug is light, fruity, and smooth with a tropical vibe. Midori brings sweet melon flavor and bold green color, while coconut rum and banana liqueur add creamy, ripe notes. Pineapple juice makes it juicy and refreshing, with a bit of tartness from lime juice to keep it from going flat. The simple syrup helps tie everything together. It’s not too strong, so it’s easy to sip. You’ll get mellow fruit flavors in every taste, and it finishes clean with just a touch of sweetness. Perfect for when you want something fun without being too heavy.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, and a strainer for this one. A knife and cutting board help prep the pineapple wedge. Use a rocks or highball glass filled with fresh ice. A fine mesh strainer isn’t required, but it helps if you want a super smooth pour. For serving, chilled glasses will keep everything colder longer. You can also toss in a reusable straw or drink stirrer if you’re dressing it up for a party. No fancy tools needed just a good shake and a fresh pour.

Ingredients

• 1 oz Midori
• ½ oz Coconut Rum
• ½ oz Banana Liqueur
• 2 oz Pineapple Juice
• 0.5 oz lime Juice
• 0.5 simple syrup
• Pineapple wedge, for garnish

Instructions

• Add Midori, coconut rum, banana liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
• Shake until well chilled, about 10 seconds.
• Strain into a glass filled with ice.
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

Pro Tips

• Chill your glass ahead of time for longer-lasting refreshment.
• Use fresh lime juice it’s brighter than bottled.
• Shake hard to mix the thick juices and liqueurs well.
• Use a ripe pineapple wedge for better flavor and aroma.
• A splash of soda water can lighten it if it’s too sweet.
• Make it frozen by blending with ice.
• Add a cherry on top for color contrast.
• Adjust syrup to taste if you like it less sweet.

When to Serve

The June Bug is a party drink through and through. Serve it during warm weather, at backyard hangouts, brunches, or any time you want something fruity and fun. It’s great for pool parties, beach days, or casual evening drinks when you want to keep it light. The bright color and flavor make it feel festive, but it’s mellow enough to serve more than once. It also works well as a welcome cocktail at small gatherings or themed events.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Midori:

• Midori Melon Liqueur (classic and vibrant no substitutions recommended)

Coconut Rum:

• Malibu Coconut Rum (light and sweet)
• Blue Chair Bay Coconut Rum (smooth with natural flavor)
• Cruzan Coconut Rum (balanced and not too sweet)

Banana Liqueur:

• Bols Banana (bright and fruity)
• 99 Bananas (stronger and bolder)
• Giffard Banane du Brésil (natural banana flavor, less sweet)

Similar Cocktails

• Tokyo Sunset
• Pineapple Mezcal Sour
• Pineapple Mango Rum Punch
• Spicy Pineapple Ranch Water
• Seaweed Cocktail