Cold as Ice

Make a Splash with the Summer's coolest cocktails

Longer days and warmer nights are the perfect recipe for frozen drinks on the patio this season. Whether you're looking to upgrade the classics, create a healthier cocktail or add non-alcoholic options to the menu, frozen beverages are continuing to be the drink of choice for those looking to wet their whistle. As frozen beverages continue their growth, notable trends include simpler cocktails, classic offerings and old favourites, more bubbles and pairing a night out with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic offerings. 

Less is more, especially when it comes to cocktails–think drinks with three or four familiar ingredients–rather than 12-step cocktails. Favourites include cocktails with gin, citrus and a herbal or floral component.

Try: Frozen Gin and Tonic

Blend freshly–squeezed lime juice, your favourite gin, tonic water, simple syrup, a cucumber (for extra freshness) and ice until smooth. 

Like a classic black dress or vintage string of pearls that never go out of style, consumers are reaching for classic drinks that have stood the test of time. These cocktail connoisseurs know their stuff and want their offerings to reflect just that. Negronis, martinis, fresh margaritas and a good old-fashioned that have been elevated especially for them by the bartender have become the drinks of choice for these bar-raising tipplers.

Try: Parson's Negroni Slushy

This recipe created by Charlie Schott of Parson's Chicken and Fish, has reached legendary status in its Chicago hometown.

Add gin, sweet vermouth, bitters, fresh grapefruit and orange juices and ice to the slushy machine. Garnish with a frozen orange half-wheel.

Bubbles are definitely the best at any time of day. From morning to night, bubbly cocktails are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, can be sipped throughout the day and provide endless mixing options. Cognac, brandy, gin, vodka and rum all pair well with bubbles.

Try: Strawberry Prosecco Slushy

This summer-in-a-glass can be served at every happy hour. Combine prosecco, strawberries, lime juice, vodka and ice. Serve with a sprig of mint leaves. 

Low and no-alcohol drinks are seeing a huge surge in growth especially among non-drinking crowds that have missed the human connection for so long. Teetotalers can enjoy a multitude of slushy options–minus the booze–and still soak up the community feel at the local watering hole.

Try: Matcha Tea Slushy

Blend milk, honey, matcha tea powder and ice until smooth. Serve with a straw or spoon or both!

Tequila is continuing to see a meteoric rise in its popularity. Tequila, made from agave nectar, not only adds to its sweetness, but has a low-sugar content and contains probiotics that aid in gut health. 

Try: Frozen Paloma Cocktail

The perfect alternative to a margarita, this slushy paloma contains tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, ice and a little sugar to cut through the tartness. 

As for bars and restaurants looking to offer customers an alternative to a packed patio, the ingredients for these slushy concoctions can be packaged and sold as take home kits. Once home, just add ice!