June 26, 2025
There’s nothing quite like a Virginia summer spent by the water. Whether you’re lounging lakeside, floating down the river or soaking up salty breezes at the beach, the right drink only enhances the moment.
This season, skip the complicated cocktails and reach for something easy, breezy and local. These refreshing recipes (all featuring Virginia-made spirits) are crafted for carefree afternoons, warm sunsets and wherever the water takes you.
If you’re ready to sip your way through summer, here are six cocktails that bring the flavor, fun and a splash of Virginia pride. The best part? Each of these concoctions have five or less ingredients.
Vibrant, citrusy and sophisticated, this Blood Orange Martini shines by the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay or during sunset happy hours just about anywhere. This cocktail lets Beach Vodka and fresh citrus shine — no frills, just great taste. Shake it up, pour it out and let the bold color match the view.
Shake all ingredients over ice, then pour into a chilled martini glass.
Rich with fresh orange juice and bright raspberry preserves, this bourbon smash is a bold companion for a day by the river. Tarnished Truth High Rye bourbon brings a smooth depth, balanced by refreshing club soda. It’s a simple, shake-and-pour kind of drink that makes riverside lounging feel a little more refined.
Nothing says summer like strawberry lemonade — especially when the star of the show is organic strawberry vodka from Waterman Spirits. This one’s sweet, tart and easy to throw together, making it perfect for sipping at a backyard pool or along Virginia Beach’s sandy shores. It’s picnic-friendly and practically sunshine in a glass.
Loaded with fresh summer berries and smooth Virginia brandy, this sangria is tailor-made for a lake house gathering or pool party. Easy to batch ahead, it blends red wine with orange liqueur and a sparkling finish for something fruity, fizzy and ready for sharing. It’s summer in a pitcher, no fuss required.
Light, bright and effortlessly refreshing, the Kali Collins is a perfect match for lazy afternoons by Virginia’s rivers and garden ponds. Featuring Virago’s hibiscus and orange peel gin, it brings floral and citrus flavors together for a drink that’s as easy to make as it is to sip.
Bold and juicy, with just the right amount of kick, the Habloma was made for hot afternoons at Smith Mountain Lake…not far from where moonshine gained its notoriety. The honey habanero moonshine gives it a sweet-heat balance, while ruby red grapefruit juice keeps it crisp and cool. Quick to build in a glass, it’s a lakeside party in every sip.
Combine all the ingredients in a stirring glass, mix and pour over ice.
No matter where summer takes you — dockside, poolside or just to your backyard hammock — these Virginia-made cocktails make for the perfect companions. And each refreshing sip is a toast to local craftsmanship.
Got a favorite Virginia cocktail that you like to sip by the water? Share your picturesque views and tag us (@VaSpirits) — we’ll be raising a glass right along with you!
