There’s a point every year when you realise you simply cannot make another heavy, boozy winter drink. The big red wines get pushed to the back of the cupboard. The thick jumpers go into a wash. And suddenly you want something lighter, fresher and a bit more fun in your glass.
Spring cocktails are that in-between sweet spot. Not quite full-on summer spritz energy, but definitely not mulled-anything either. Think citrus, a bit of floral, a touch of fruit and drinks you can happily sip while pretending the sun will stay out all weekend.
If you’re stuck for ideas, there are plenty of creative spring cocktails out there to get you started. Here are a few worth actually making (and not just saving on Instagram).
1. Elderflower Old Fashioned
I know what you’re thinking. An Old Fashioned? In spring? Stay with me.
The elderflower old fashioned takes the classic and gives it a proper seasonal refresh. The elderflower and peach soften things up, adding a light floral sweetness that makes it feel much less “winter by the fire” and more “early evening in the garden”.
It’s still simple to make – The Glenlivet whisky, a touch of sweetness, bitters, ice – but the flavour feels brighter. It’s the sort of drink that works when it’s warm enough to sit outside but you still want something with a bit of depth.
2. Cherry Manhattan
If you like something smooth but don’t want it to feel heavy, the cherry manhattan is a good middle ground.
Adding maraschino cherry gives the traditional Manhattan a fruitier edge, which makes it feel more in tune with the season. It’s still a proper cocktail – stirred, chilled, served up – but there’s something about that cherry note that makes it feel less wintry.
This is the one I’d pull out if friends were coming round and I wanted something that looks impressive but doesn’t require a degree in mixology.
3. Scotch Whisky Mule
If you prefer your spring drinks a bit more refreshing, the whisky mule is an easy win.
Whisky, ginger beer and lime. That’s it.
The ginger keeps it lively, the lime adds a sharp edge, and the whole thing feels perfect for those “it’s technically sunny” afternoons. It’s also the kind of cocktail you can throw together without overthinking it, which makes it ideal for casual get-togethers when you don’t want to be stuck behind the bar all night.
4. Aperol Spritz (Yes, Still)
It wouldn’t be spring without someone mentioning an Aperol Spritz. And honestly? Fair enough.
Prosecco, Aperol, a splash of soda and a big wedge of orange. It’s bright, slightly bitter and basically the official drink of “the clocks have changed”. It looks good in a glass, it’s easy to batch, and no one ever complains when you offer them one.
Is it groundbreaking? No. Does it work every single time? Also yes.
5. Rhubarb Fizz
Rhubarb feels like the poster child for spring. It’s tart, a bit pink and makes everything look instantly seasonal.
A simple rhubarb fizz – rhubarb syrup, lemon juice, your spirit of choice and soda – is light and fresh without being boring. If you’re hosting brunch or just want something that feels a bit different, this is a good shout.
Bonus points if you pretend you made the syrup from scratch.
6. Gin and Elderflower Collins
If you’re leaning towards something floral but want it long and refreshing, a gin and elderflower Collins does the job nicely.
Gin, lemon, elderflower and soda. Add plenty of ice and maybe some mint if you’re feeling fancy. It’s crisp, easy to drink and feels like the sort of cocktail that belongs next to a bowl of crisps on a sunny afternoon.
So, What Should You Actually Make?
Spring cocktails don’t need to be complicated. The trick is just lightening things up a bit. Swap heavy flavours for citrus and florals. Add fresh fruit. Keep things chilled and easy.
Whether you go for a floral elderflower Old Fashioned, a fruity Cherry Manhattan or something fizzy and long, this is the season to experiment a little. Worst case? You’ve made yourself a decent drink on a brighter evening.
And after months of winter, that feels like a win.
