Forget basic cocktails. This summer is about bold flavours, pretty pours, and drinks that feel like a party in a glass.
I freeze whenever I’m out and get handed a cocktail menu. There are often too many options, too many flavours, and somehow I always end up circling back to the same familiar drinks — Sex on the Beach or a Mojito. I love a good cocktail, but sometimes I just want someone to tell me what’s actually worth trying and what will hit the spot after a long, hot day.
For our Travel Special, I consulted an expert — someone who knows her way around flavour, fizz, and fun. Someone who can break it all down and make it simple. Adesope Ogunruku is a mixologist and content creator. She’s also the woman behind Omuti Express, a Lagos-based cocktail brand curating drink experiences tailored to the mood, the moment, and most importantly, the people.
Here’s what makes a good cocktail, according to an expert
Adesope believes a great summer cocktail should feel like a reward — something light, fresh, and beautiful without trying too hard. It’s not about complex ingredients or over-the-top presentation. It’s about balance. A soft fizz, a fruity or citrusy profile, maybe a herb or two to keep the flavours interesting.
You should expect a cocktail to taste like a break from the heat and the hustle. “Something you sip slowly while catching up with friends, legs crossed, shoulders relaxed,” she adds. Bonus points if it looks as good as it tastes.
The flavours winning hearts this season are the ones that scream tropical vacation. Think juicy berries, refreshing cucumber, watermelon, passion fruit, and citrus in all its tangy glory.
These ingredients not only cool you down but instantly lift your mood. Lemongrass adds a fresh twist, while coconut brings soft, tropical vibes. A splash of soda or sparkling wine gives that celebratory fizz, and fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary add a grown-up touch that still feels playful.
Read also: Uncork joy with this guide to the perfect holiday wines
Top cocktail recommendations you’ll want to sip now
If you’re stuck in the same drink loop as I was, Adesope has a few cocktail suggestions that are guaranteed to shake things up:
Hugo Spritz: Light, floral, and laced with elderflower, prosecco, and mint. It’s elegant, pretty, and perfect for long, sunny afternoons.
Charred Pineapple Margarita: Smoky meets sweet in this bold twist on a classic. It’s rich in flavour with a lot of main character energy. This is for the girls who want something bold but still cute
Berry and Basil Gin Fizz: Fruity, fizzy, and layered with fresh basil. This one’s for the gin lovers who want something cool and elevated.
Classic Chapman: Whether you’re skipping alcohol altogether or just pacing yourself, there’s no reason to sacrifice flavour. A classic Chapman brings nostalgic joy with grown-up energy.
Mojitos: Whether alcoholic or not — Mojitos remain a crowd favourite. And the flavours? Endless. Strawberry, passion fruit, cucumber, lemonade. Just pick your vibe. So simple, so reliable.
Spicy Hibiscus Margarita: It’s sweet, tangy, with a little heat and that rich hibiscus depth. A little fiery, bold and unforgettable, just like a summer night done right.
The best part? These can stand alone or be spiked when the moment calls for it.
No travel plans? Making a quality summer cocktail at home is easier than you think
If the bar feels far away or you’re opting for a staycation at home, you can still create something impressive. This is what Adesope recommends:
Start with a flavourful base: think fresh juice, fruit purée, or even a spoonful of jam. Then add a splash of lemon or lime for brightness and balance.
Choose your spirit: (or skip it), then top it all with ice and something bubbly like soda water, tonic, or sparkling wine.
Finish with a garnish: garnish with fruit, herbs, or a citrus peel to bring it all together.
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s pleasure. Keep it fresh, keep it fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Therefore, if, like me, you’re ready to break free from your usual order and explore new summer flavours, take this as your sign. Let your next cocktail feel like a getaway in a glass — easy, beautiful, and full of flavour.
