There’s something magical about that golden hour glow—the way the light hits just right, the air turns soft, and the pace slows down. It’s the perfect backdrop for unwinding, whether you’re hosting friends or savoring a quiet evening on your own. And what pairs better with a summer sunset than a drink that’s as golden, refreshing, and mood-setting as the moment itself?
We’ve rounded up a few backyard-friendly cocktails designed to taste just as good as they look. Think vibrant colors, bright citrus, and easygoing ingredients that keep the summer vibe flowing.
1. Blood Orange Sunset Spritz
Color: Deep orange with a pop of fizz
Flavor: Bright, citrusy, slightly bitter
Perfect for: Happy hour with a view
Ingredients:
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2 oz blood orange juice
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1 oz Aperol or orange liqueur
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3 oz sparkling wine or Prosecco
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Splash of soda water
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Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
In a wine or stemless glass filled with ice, combine blood orange juice and Aperol. Top with sparkling wine and a splash of soda water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice.
2. Peach Bourbon Smash
Color: Golden amber
Flavor: Fruity, smooth, slightly smoky
Perfect for: Backyard dinners or after-grill drinks
Ingredients:
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2 oz bourbon
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1 ripe peach, sliced
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1/2 oz lemon juice
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1/2 oz simple syrup
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Fresh mint
Instructions:
Muddle peach slices and mint leaves in a shaker. Add bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a lowball glass over fresh ice. Garnish with more mint or a peach wedge.
3. Coconut Paloma
Color: Pale pink with a tropical twist
Flavor: Refreshing, tangy, and lightly creamy
Perfect for: Lounging poolside or on the patio
Ingredients:
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2 oz tequila
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1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
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1 oz coconut water
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1/2 oz lime juice
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1/2 oz agave syrup
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Club soda to top
Instructions:
Shake tequila, grapefruit juice, coconut water, lime, and agave with ice. Strain into a tall glass over ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a grapefruit wheel.
4. Mango Chili Cooler
Color: Sun-kissed gold
Flavor: Sweet with a kick
Perfect for: Spicy summer nights
Ingredients:
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2 oz vodka or blanco tequila
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1 oz mango puree or juice
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3/4 oz lime juice
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1/2 oz honey or agave
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Tajín or chili salt rim
Instructions:
Rim your glass with Tajín and set aside. In a shaker, combine mango, spirit, lime juice, and honey. Shake with ice and strain into your prepared glass over ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.
5. Lavender Lemon Gin Fizz
Color: Soft golden with lavender hues
Flavor: Floral, citrusy, ultra-refreshing
Perfect for: Garden parties or winding down solo
Ingredients:
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1.5 oz gin
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1 oz lemon juice
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1/2 oz lavender syrup
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Club soda to top
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Lemon twist or sprig of lavender
Instructions:
Shake gin, lemon juice, and lavender syrup with ice. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice, top with club soda, and garnish.
The Finishing Touch: Glassware That Glows
Whether you’re pouring into a bold lowball, a delicate coupe, or a tall iced glass, the right drink deserves the right silhouette. Warm, golden tones pop in glassware with clarity and curve—perfect for catching the last rays of sunlight.
Set the mood with drinks that look as beautiful as the moment feels. Toast the day behind you and the night ahead—with every golden sip.
