Day drinking is an art; one that must be mastered in order to make it through these last few weeks of August in good spirits. Just because it’s prior to dinner doesn’t mean you have to stick with a “casual beer”—there are plenty of tasty cocktails options that are low in alcohol, refreshing, and not too hard on the stomach (another key to daytime drinks). Whether you’re at at the cottage, in the garden, or wherever you might find yourself in need of a daytime pick me up, these cocktails are sure to refresh.
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This fusion of two favourites—the mojito and the piña colada—is full of refreshing pineapple juice and hydrating coconut water, and with dash of rum, this drink brings putting the lime in the coconut to the next level.
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Filled to the brim with ginger beer, this is a sweet and spicy drink that is known to perk you up (ginger is invigorating) and keep your stomach calm (it’s also a digestive aid). Add just the right amount of a dark rum, and you’ll be moving at just the right pace.
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These tasty margaritas are a safe alternative to spiking a whole watermelon with liquor (don’t tell me you haven’t done this before?) While appealing, this wet hot summer BBQ classic does not meet our daytime drinking standards of light on the liquor. Tequila is known for being hangover friendly, so drink up!
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The sweeter, brighter, and not so evil twin of the Dark and Stormy. Loaded with grapefruit rum, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (super simple to do yourself) and topped off with bubbling soda water, this drink packs a dainty, delicate, punch.
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This fruity cocktail (recipe courtesy of Captain Morgan’s Rum) is icy cool and makes an excellent treat for beating the heat. Almost as good as a freezie, but much more mature in its flavour palette, it features the brand’s signature grapefruit flavoured rum and sweet guava nectar (a low sugar natural fruit juice).
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A pitcher of thai iced tea—with the extra kick of a bit of light rum—is a totally unique choice for serving to guests in the mid afternoon. Less boozy than sangria, but still tropical tasting, this creamy sweet tea is a bit easier on the stomach than a coffee beverage. Switch the half and half out for coconut creamer if you’re looking for a dairy free version.
Blueberry Basil Mojito
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If you’ve got an herb garden at home, chances are you’ve got some extra basil or mint kicking around.This cocktail is a twist on a mojito which places basil in the role of mint. Switch the sweet and low out for your preferred sweetener, swap out the blueberries for whatever berries might be local and fresh to you, don’t be afraid to blend your herbs. and make a cocktail that is uniquely your own.
Southern Spiked Peach Iced Tea
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Another approach to boozy iced tea that’s super simple and straightforward, with main ingredients that might be a bit easier to find. You can make your tea from scratch if you like (brew and chill black tea and peach herbal teas) or opt for a pre-made bottle. Then, just add vodka and lemonade, ice and garnish!
The “Skinny” aka Vodka and Soda
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Vodka and Soda is a go to for a drink that’s easy on the stomach and veers away from a hangover. Add whatever citrus tickles your fancy, and consider garnishing with a sprig from the garden.
Strawberry Mint Gin and Tonic
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We couldn’t forget the gin and tonic, but also couldn’t avoid adding fresh summer fruit and herbs to it. No syrups required, this is a freshly muddled drinks that’s sweet and flavourful but easy on the sugar.
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