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33 Must-Try Summer Bourbon Cocktails

Cherry Basil Smash

Summer bourbon cocktails are the perfect way to enjoy bourbon when the weather’s warm. The rich, smooth flavor of bourbon pairs easily with fresh fruits, citrus, herbs, and light mixers, making each drink refreshing but still full of bold flavor. These easy bourbon cocktails are great for summer BBQs, backyard gatherings, or relaxing by the pool. From fruity smashes to light lemonades, every recipe brings something fresh to the table. Whether you’re hosting friends or sipping solo, this roundup has plenty of simple recipes everyone will enjoy.

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Berry Bourbon Smash

Broadstreet Bourbon Berry Smash Pic 8

The Berry Bourbon Smash blends sweet berries, fresh citrus, and bold bourbon with herbal notes from mint. Raspberries and blackberries create a juicy, slightly tart base that pairs well with the richness of the Broadstreet Infamous Prohibition Proof Bourbon.

Lemon wedges add acidity to brighten the mix, while the simple syrup smooths it out without becoming overly sweet. Fresh mint adds an aromatic lift from the first sip to the last. The crushed ice keeps it cold and helps dilute the drink gently over time, making it refreshing, full-flavored, and ideal for sipping in a relaxed setting.

Strawberry Coconut Breeze

Strawberry Coconut Breeze

This Strawberry Coconut Breeze blends juicy strawberry with creamy coconut and the depth of both rum and bourbon. The fruit and cream round out the sharper edges of the spirits, while lime juice and simple syrup keep it bright and easy to drink.

A few drops of orange flower water and bitters provide subtle complexity, while the grated nutmeg gives a warm aroma to finish. The result is rich, refreshing, and layered offering a balance of fresh fruit, creaminess, oak, and spice that makes each sip interesting and satisfying without being overly heavy.

Island Highball

Island Highball

The Island Highball is a bright and easy bourbon drink with a tropical twist. Fresh lime, orange, and pineapple juices bring a fruity kick, while a touch of grenadine and bitters adds color and depth.

Served over ice and topped with a mint sprig, it’s smooth, chilled, and just a little playful great for summer afternoons, patio lounging, or anytime you want something light with character.

Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash

Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash

The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a warm, aromatic cocktail that blends sweet stone fruit, rich maple syrup, and the bold depth of bourbon. The drink’s signature touch comes from smoking grilled peach and fresh thyme directly into the glass, infusing each sip with a subtle, savory aroma.

Muddled grilled peaches and thyme form the heart of the drink, layered with bitters, fresh lemon, and smoked maple bourbon. A splash of spicy ginger beer adds brightness and gentle heat, creating a drink that’s equal parts smooth, smoky, and refreshing. Ideal for late summer evenings or cozy autumn nights.

Blueberry Bourbon Smash

Blueberry Bourbon Smash

Bold, juicy, and bursting with flavor, the Blueberry Bourbon Smash is a cocktail that knows how to make an impression. Fresh muddled blueberries meet smooth bourbon and a splash of citrus for a drink that’s as refreshing as it is rich.

With its light red color and easy-to-make recipe, this bourbon cocktail with blueberries is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, winding down after dinner, or mixing up something special for cocktail hour, this fruity bourbon drink delivers the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and strong.

Strawberry Jam Paper Plane

Strawberry Jam Paper Plane Pic 5

Strawberry Jam Paper Plane is one of those cocktails that feels both familiar and a little unexpected in the best way. The first time I made it, I already liked the classic Paper Plane, but the addition of strawberry jam made it stand out right away.

This version keeps the equal-parts structure, so it stays balanced and easy to mix. The jam adds a soft fruit sweetness that blends smoothly with the citrus and bitters. I like how it feels slightly richer while still finishing clean. It’s a great choice for evenings when you want something simple, a little creative, and easy to enjoy.

Bourbon Watermelon Crush

Bourbon Watermelon Blast

The Bourbon Watermelon Crush is a bold and refreshing mix of smooth whiskey and fresh summer flavor. Juicy watermelon adds a light, fruity base that softens the rich, caramel notes of bourbon. A splash of lemon or lime juice keeps it bright, while a little simple syrup can sweeten it up just enough.

See also  Bourbon Rickey

Served over ice, it’s a laid-back cocktail that works well on warm evenings or casual hangouts. The balance of sweet fruit and smoky bourbon makes it easy to sip without losing its edge. It’s a fresh twist that keeps things interesting without being too heavy.

Mango Bourbon Lemonade

Mango Bourbon Lemonade

The Mango Bourbon Lemonade brings a bold twist to a summer classic. Sweet mango blends with fresh lemonade, and the bourbon adds just the right amount of depth and warmth. It’s smooth, sunny, and full of flavor without going over the top.

Perfect for cookouts, porch nights, or anytime you want a drink that’s both easygoing and packed with taste. Pour it over ice, add a citrus slice, and let it speak for itself. The Mango Bourbon Lemonade doesn’t need a lot of extras, it’s good from the first sip to the last.

Strawberry Mango Bourbon Smash

Strawberry Mango Bourbon Smash

The Strawberry Mango Bourbon Smash is bold, fruity, and full of fresh flavor. It mixes the rich warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of ripe strawberries and juicy mango. A splash of citrus and a few mint leaves keep it bright and balanced, cutting through the sweetness just enough.

It’s the kind of drink that works well on a sunny afternoon or a relaxed evening with friends. The fruit and bourbon blend smoothly, making each sip refreshing but still packing that classic whiskey depth. If you’re into sweet-meets-strong drinks, this one’s got you covered.

Bourbon Sweet Tea

Bourbon Sweet Tea

Bourbon Sweet Tea is smooth, laid-back, and made for slow sipping. It combines the deep, oaky flavor of bourbon with the mellow sweetness of classic iced tea. A splash of lemon or a touch of simple syrup adds a little brightness, but the focus stays on that easy, Southern-style charm.

It’s the kind of drink you bring to porch hangs, barbecues, or lazy weekends when you just want something simple and satisfying. If you like your cocktails strong but not fussy, Bourbon Sweet Tea delivers with comfort and a little kick.

Bourbon Pineapple Slush

Bourbon Pineapple Slush

This Bourbon Pineapple Slush leads with sweet pineapple and a rich coconut backdrop, layered with mellow bourbon warmth. The orgeat adds a hint of almond, which plays nicely with the honey’s soft sweetness and citrus brightness from the orange juice.

Ground cinnamon adds a subtle spice that rounds out the tropical notes, while grated nutmeg on top gives the final touch of aromatic warmth. The texture is creamy and slushy, perfect for sipping slowly. Garnishes of pineapple wedge and leaf not only add flair but reinforce the tropical tone.

Bourbon Strawberry Iced Tea

Bourbon Strawberry Iced Tea

Bourbon Strawberry Iced Tea is perfect for summer days. Fresh strawberries are muddled with lemon juice and simple syrup, then shaken with smooth bourbon for a sweet, tangy base.

Topped with unsweetened iced tea, it’s light, crisp, and easy to sip when the weather heats up. Served over ice and garnished with fresh berries and mint, it’s colorful, refreshing, and simple to build for BBQs, porch hangs, or backyard get-togethers.

Pineapple Bourbon Honey Sour

Pineapple Bourbon Honey Sour

Pineapple Bourbon Honey Sour brings a tropical twist to summer sipping. Smooth bourbon blends with fresh pineapple and lemon juice for a bright, balanced sip. Honey syrup softens the edges, while a frothy egg white adds a creamy texture.

A few dashes of bitters give it just enough depth. Served over ice and topped with edible flowers, it’s colorful, refreshing, and easy to enjoy on warm nights, summer parties, or backyard gatherings.

Orange Bourbon Sour

Orange Bourbon Sour

Orange Bourbon Sour is a bright, refreshing take on a classic bourbon cocktail. Fresh orange juice blends with smooth bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup for a sweet-tart balance that’s perfect for summer.

The citrus keeps it light, while the bourbon adds rich depth without feeling heavy. Served over ice with an orange slice, it’s easy to make and ideal for summer BBQs, backyard gatherings, or casual warm-weather sipping. A simple bourbon drink everyone can enjoy.

Frozen Peach Bourbon Mule

Frozen Peach Bourbon Mule

Frozen Peach Bourbon Mule is made for hot summer days. Smooth bourbon blends with fresh peaches, lime juice, and spicy ginger beer for a sweet, tangy, and icy sip.

Blended to a frosty slush, it’s cool, refreshing, and perfect for poolside, BBQs, or backyard hangs. The peaches balance the bourbon’s warmth while the ginger keeps it lively. Garnished with mint and lime, it’s colorful, easy to build, and full of bold summer flavor.

Kentucky Mule

kentucky mule in copper mug with mint and lime garnish

Kentucky Mule keeps things bright, bold, and perfect for summer. Smooth bourbon blends with fresh lime juice and spicy ginger beer for a crisp, refreshing sip that cools you down on hot days. Built right in the glass over ice, it’s quick to make and full of flavor.

See also  Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade

The ginger’s kick balances the bourbon’s warmth, while the lime adds fresh brightness. Great for BBQs, patio hangs, or summer nights when you want bourbon that’s easy to sip.

Beachy Bourbon

beachy bourbon

Beachy Bourbon brings a light tropical twist to summer bourbon sipping. Smooth bourbon blends with Campari’s bittersweet kick, fresh lime juice, and spicy ginger beer for a bold, refreshing drink.

Shaken and served over ice with a lime wedge, it’s crisp, colorful, and easy to build. The bright citrus and ginger balance the bourbon’s warmth, making it perfect for beach days, BBQs, or casual summer nights. Full of flavor without feeling heavy.

Grapefruit Bourbon Smash

grapefruit bourbon smash

Grapefruit Bourbon Smash brings bright, fresh flavor that’s perfect for summer. Fresh grapefruit and mint are muddled with simple syrup and lemon juice, then shaken with smooth bourbon for a crisp sweet-tart balance.

A splash of club soda keeps it light and refreshing for warm days. Served over ice with a grapefruit slice and mint, it’s colorful, easy to make, and great for BBQs, patio hangs, or laid-back summer evenings.

Orange Bourbon Smash

orange bourbon smash

Orange Bourbon Smash is a simple, refreshing bourbon cocktail perfect for summer. Fresh orange wedges are muddled with mint and simple syrup, then mixed with smooth bourbon and a splash of soda for a light, crisp finish.

The bright citrus balances the bourbon’s warmth, making it easy to sip on warm days. Served over ice with fresh orange slices and mint, this bourbon smash is great for BBQs, patio nights, or backyard gatherings.

Bourbon Rickey

Bourbon Rickey Cocktail

Bourbon Rickey keeps it light, crisp, and simple, making it perfect for summer. Smooth bourbon blends with fresh lime juice and club soda for a refreshing sip that cools you off on hot days.

No shaker needed, just build it right in the glass over ice. The bright lime cuts through the bourbon’s warmth, while the soda keeps it bubbly and easy to sip. Quick to make and perfect for BBQs, pool days, or patio nights.

Cherry Bourbon Lemonade

Cherry Bourbon Lemonade

Cherry Bourbon Lemonade is bright, bold, and easy to sip. Smooth bourbon mixes with tart lemonade and rich cherry syrup for a sweet-tart balance that’s perfect for warm days.

Served over ice with maraschino cherries and lemon, it’s colorful and refreshing. Simple to stir up and full of fresh flavor, this one works for backyard BBQs, summer gatherings, or casual nights. Bourbon stays front and center while the cherry and citrus keep it light.

Blueberry Bourbon Lemonade

Blueberry Bourbon Lemonade

Blueberry Bourbon Lemonade is bright, fruity, and easy for warm days. Fresh blueberries and lemon juice bring sweet-tart flavor that pairs perfectly with smooth bourbon.

A splash of club soda keeps it light and crisp, while lemon slices and fresh berries make it photo-ready. Quick to shake up and full of bold, refreshing flavor, it’s perfect for backyard BBQs, porch hangs, or summer parties. Bourbon stays front and center without feeling too heavy.

Cherry Bourbon Smash

cherry bourbon smash

Cherry Bourbon Smash brings bright summer flavor with every sip. Fresh cherries and lemon get muddled with simple syrup for a sweet-tart base. Smooth bourbon rounds it out, while a quick shake and pour over ice keeps it light and refreshing.

Garnish with extra cherries and a lemon twist for a colorful finish. Easy to make and full of bold, juicy flavor, this one’s perfect for backyard BBQs, date nights, or warm evenings outside.

Southern Peach Bourbon Tea

Southern Peach Tea

Southern Peach Bourbon Tea is smooth, simple, and built for warm days. Bourbon and peach syrup blend with iced tea for a sweet, mellow sip that’s easy to enjoy anytime.

Served over ice with fresh peach slices, it looks as good as it tastes. Light, fruity, and not too heavy, it’s perfect for porch sitting, BBQs, or casual get-togethers. This one’s easy to mix, easy to sip, and just right for summer afternoons.

Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash

Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash

Hot Honey Strawberry Bourbon Smash brings sweet, spicy, and fresh flavors together. Muddled strawberries mix with smooth bourbon, hot honey syrup, and lemon juice for a bold, balanced sip.

See also  Purple Paradise Punch

A splash of club soda adds a light fizz, while mint and strawberry garnish make it extra fresh. The sweet heat from the honey keeps things interesting without feeling heavy. Easy to build and perfect for summer nights, BBQs, or anytime you want a little kick.

Raspberry Bourbon Smash

raspberry bourbon Smash

Raspberry Bourbon Smash keeps things simple and fresh. Muddle raspberries and mint right in the glass, then add simple syrup and smooth bourbon. Top it with soda water for a light, fizzy finish.

No shaker or strainer needed, so you get a pulpy, bubbly texture that feels extra summery. Bright, easy, and full of berry flavor, it’s perfect for backyard hangs, casual get-togethers, or warm nights when you want bourbon that’s light and refreshing.

Strawberry Bourbon Smash

Strawberry Bourbon Smash

Strawberry Bourbon Smash brings fresh, easy summer flavor. Muddled strawberries, mint, and sugar create a sweet, juicy base. Bourbon adds smooth depth, while lemon juice brightens every sip.

Served over ice with a splash of soda water, it’s light, colorful, and perfect for warm nights or weekend hangs. Garnish with a strawberry and mint for extra flair. It’s easy to make, full of fresh flavor, and lets the bourbon shine without weighing you down.

Blueberry Bourbon Smash

Blueberry Bourbon Smash

Blueberry Bourbon Smash delivers bold summer flavor in every sip. Fresh blueberries and lemon juice bring tart, juicy notes that balance perfectly with smooth bourbon.

Simple syrup softens the edge, while a splash of soda water adds a light, crisp finish. Served over ice with mint and extra berries, it’s bright, easy, and ready for any summer get-together. Quick to make, full of color, and bourbon-forward without feeling heavy

#7. Peach Bourbon Lemonade

Peach Bourbon Lemonade

Peach Bourbon Lemonade brings fresh summer flavor without the fuss. Peach puree, lemon juice, and peach schnapps blend with bourbon for a smooth, juicy sip. Club soda adds a crisp finish, while peach slices, lemon wedges, and mint dress it up. The balance of sweet, tart, and bourbon warmth makes it an easy pick for backyard hangs, brunch, or laid-back afternoons. Simple to prep, easy to share, and perfect for warm-weather sipping.

Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer

Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer

Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer takes a summer classic and gives it a smooth upgrade. Sweet tea, lemonade, bourbon, and peach liqueur come together for a mellow sip.

Fresh peach slices add a pop of flavor and color, while a whiskey ball keeps it cold without watering it down. Crisp and easy to make, it’s great for porch hangs, backyard BBQs, or lazy afternoons. A simple way to enjoy bourbon when the heat’s on.

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade

blackberry bourbon lemonade

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade keeps it fresh and bold, perfect for summer sipping. Muddled blackberries and lemon bring sharp fruit flavor, while maple syrup adds smooth sweetness. Bourbon gives it depth without feeling heavy, and a touch of bitters balances every sip.

Served over ice with charred lemon, blackberries, and fresh basil, it’s colorful and easy to make. Light, crisp, and full of flavor, it’s great for BBQs, patio hangs, or hot summer nights.

Suffering Bastard Cocktail

Boozy Alcoholic Suffering Bastard Cocktail with Lime and Ginger Beer

The Suffering Bastard balances bourbon and gin for a bold, layered sip that still works on hot days. Lime juice, ginger beer, and bitters bring bright citrus and spice, cutting through the spirits with a refreshing kick.

It pulls some flavors from a Moscow Mule but adds depth from the bourbon and gin combo. Served cold over ice, it’s light enough for summer but delivers plenty of flavor for BBQs, patio hangs, or laid-back nights.

Pineapple Bourbon Lemonade

Pineapple Bourbon Lemonade

Pineapple Bourbon Lemonade is made for hot days. Fresh pineapple juice, lemon, and simple syrup mix with bourbon for a bright, tropical flavor. Served over ice with pineapple and lemon slices, it’s juicy, smooth, and easy to sip.

The bourbon adds just enough warmth without feeling heavy. Quick to shake up and perfect for BBQs, pool parties, or summer afternoons when you want something sweet, crisp, and refreshing.

Bourbon Margarita

bourbon margarita

Bourbon Margarita gives a summer twist to the classic. Bourbon mixes with lime juice, Cointreau, and simple syrup for a bold, citrusy sip. Served over ice with a salted rim, it’s crisp and smooth without feeling heavy.

Quick to make and easy to sip, it works for BBQs, weekend hangs, or warm nights when you want something fresh with a little kick.

33 Must-Try Summer Bourbon Cocktails
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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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