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13 Must-Try Southern Cocktails

Step into the world of Southern cocktails, where tradition meets innovation in a delightful mix of flavors and history. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just enjoy a refreshing beverage, Southern cocktails offer a little something for everyone. From the laid-back charm of a porch sipper to the bold and zesty concoctions that pack a punch, these drinks embody the spirit of the South.

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Imagine sipping on a concoction that perfectly captures the essence of warm summer evenings and lively gatherings, or indulging in a smooth, comforting libation that evokes the hospitality and charm of the region. Get ready to explore a world of tantalizing tastes and discover your new favorite cocktail.

Kentucky Mule

kentucky mule

This Southern twist on the classic Moscow Mule combines bourbon, ginger beer, and a splash of lime juice. It offers a harmonious blend of the warm, rich flavors of bourbon with the alluring kick of ginger. Served over ice in a copper mug, the Kentucky Mule is best enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or as a spirited companion during social gatherings, adding a Southern flair to the traditional Mule experience.


Mint Julep

Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

The epitome of Southern hospitality, the Mint Julep is a timeless classic made with bourbon, muddled fresh mint leaves, sugar, and crushed ice. This iconic cocktail boasts a satisfying and herbaceous profile, with the cooling mint complementing the caramel notes of bourbon. Best enjoyed on a hot summer day, the Mint Julep captures the essence of the South and is synonymous with the pageantry of the Kentucky Derby.


Hurricane

hurricane cocktail with ingredients in the background

A vibrant and fruity concoction, the Hurricane features a medley of tropical flavors, including rum, passion fruit juice, and citrus. It delights with a sweet and tangy taste profile, evoking the lively spirit of New Orleans. Enjoy it during Mardi Gras celebrations or when you want to transport yourself to the vibrant streets of the French Quarter, immersing yourself in the festive energy of the South.


Southern Blueberry Whiskey Smash

Southern Blueberry Whiskey Smash Garnish with mint and fresh blueberries.
Source: craftmadekitchen.com

This enticing cocktail combines fresh blueberries, whiskey, lemon juice, and a touch of mint. It offers a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, with the smoothness of whiskey shining through. Best enjoyed on a sunny day or when you want to savor the flavors of the South, the Southern Blueberry Whiskey Smash is a soothing and fruity drink that captures the essence of Southern charm.


Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade

Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade
Source: foxvalleyfoodie.com

A delightful combination of blackberries, bourbon, lemonade, and a hint of sweetness, the Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade showcases a perfect balance of fruity and boozy flavors. It offers a revitalizing and tangy taste profile, with the bourbon adding depth and complexity. Sip it leisurely during backyard gatherings or when you want to enjoy a Southern-inspired twist on a classic lemonade.


A Devilish Coffee Milk Punch

A Devilish Coffee Milk Punch
Source: gardenandgun.com

This indulgent cocktail combines the robust flavors of coffee liqueur, bourbon, cream, and a touch of sweetness. It offers a luxurious and velvety mouthfeel, with the coffee and bourbon harmonizing beautifully. Enjoy it as an after-dinner treat or when you crave a decadent drink that pairs the smoothness of bourbon with the rich notes of coffee, creating a devilishly delightful experience.


Peach Whiskey Iced Tea

Peach Whiskey Iced Tea  garnished with a Sliced Peaches.
Source: serenabakessimplyfromscratch.com

This delightful drink combines the classic flavors of Southern sweet tea with the warmth of whiskey and the sweetness of ripe peaches. It offers a harmonious blend of crisp and fruity notes, with the whiskey adding a touch of depth and character. Best enjoyed during lazy afternoons or when you want to unwind with a Southern-inspired twist on a timeless favorite.


Southern Sea Breeze

Southern Sea Breeze Garnish with dried apricots and mint leaves.
Source: uk.inshaker.com

The Southern Sea Breeze brings a coastal twist to the classic cocktail, combining vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice. It offers a balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with a exhilarating citrusy profile that transports you to the sunny shores of the South. Sip it during beachside gatherings or when you want to capture the essence of the sea breeze in a glass.


Alabama Slammer

Alabama Slammer

The Alabama Slammer is a fruity and vibrant cocktail that blends amaretto, Southern Comfort, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine. It offers a sweet and tangy taste profile, with a tropical flair that embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality. Enjoy it during festive occasions or when you want to add a touch of playful fun to your cocktail repertoire.


Tennessee Meyer Lemonade

Tennessee Meyer Lemonade garnished with a lemon wheel.
Source: scratchmadesouthern.com

This zesty and crowd-pleasing cocktail showcases the bright flavors of Meyer lemon, whiskey, and a hint of sweetness. It offers a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, with the whiskey providing a smooth and warm undertone. Savor it during summer gatherings or when you want to enjoy a citrusy drink that pays homage to the Southern roots of whiskey-making.


The Scarlett O’Hara Cocktail

The Scarlett O'Hara Cocktail  garnished with a Lime wedge.
Source: thespruceeats.com

Named after the iconic fictional character, the Scarlett O’Hara Cocktail combines Southern Comfort, cranberry juice, and lime juice. It offers a sweet and tangy flavor profile, with a fruity and hydrating character. Best enjoyed during leisurely evenings or when you want to channel the vivacious spirit of the South, the Scarlett O’Hara Cocktail adds a touch of Southern charm to your drinking experience.


Southern Peach Cocktail

Southern Peach Cocktail Garnish with a maraschino cherry, lemon wedge.
Source: thesoccermomblog.com

This delightful drink celebrates the flavors of ripe peaches, vodka, and a hint of citrus. It offers a luscious and fruity taste profile, with the sweetness of the peaches shining through. Best enjoyed during warm summer days or when you want to capture the essence of Southern summer abundance. The Southern Peach Cocktail is a cooling and vibrant drink that brings a taste of the South to your glass.


Arnold Palmer Bourbon Cocktail

Arnold Palmer Bourbon Cocktail Garnish with a lemon wheel
Source: healthyseasonalrecipes.com

A Southern twist on the classic Arnold Palmer, this cocktail combines bourbon, lemonade, and iced tea. It offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and the warming notes of bourbon. Enjoy it on lazy afternoons or when you want to enjoy a stimulating drink that combines the flavors of two Southern staples, creating a delightful fusion of taste.


A Kentucky Mule cocktail in a copper mug, garnished with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint, set on a rustic wooden bar table. The background features a blurred bar atmosphere with dim lights and shelves of various liquor bottles.

13 Southern Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
4.7 from 3 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Southern Cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Explore these Southern cocktail recipes and bring some Southern charm to your glass.

Instructions

  • Pick your favorite recipe
  • Gather all the needed ingredients
  • Prep a southern cocktail in less than 5 minutes
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
13 Must-Try Southern Cocktails
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
4.67 from 3 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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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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