Monsoon has finally arrived in most parts of India. While some parts of the country are breathing a sigh of relief, some are still sweating due to the humidity.

Now, if you are still feeling the heat or are vacationing in a place where it is still hot (Hello, Europe!), and you’re wondering what you can order to stay cool (and a little drunk), we’ve got you covered.

But why should you drink according to the season?

Your beverage choice can greatly enhance your seasonal experience. Just as you adjust your wardrobe to suit the season, choosing the right wine for the season can enhance your enjoyment and comfort.

Hot toddies or mulled wine are the go-to drinks during the winter, but what do we have this summer?

Industry experts say that.

Fruit cocktail

Fruit cocktails have become a favorite among chefs, and for good reason.

Shivansh Bhasin, Head Chef, Quarter Plate, Delhi NCR, says, RelativelyFruit cocktails are not only delicious but also offer various health benefits from their ‘natural ingredients’.

“They’re hydrating, full of vitamins and antioxidants, and can be a lighter and more refreshing option than heavier cocktails or drinks,” he says.

Here are details of some popular fruit cocktails suggested by Shivansh.

Mango Mint Margarita

The Mango Mint Margarita is a refreshing version of the classic Margarita, perfect for those hot summer days.

The cocktail blends the tropical sweetness of fresh mango and the coolness of mint, creating a great balance of flavors. Lime juice adds a tang, while tequila or rum provides a smooth, zesty base.

Melon Passion Daiquiri

The Melon Passion Daiquiri is an incredibly refreshing tropical delight that brings a burst of exotic flavors to your glass.

Its main ingredients include passionfruit, complemented by the sweet and juicy notes of melon liqueur.

Finally, the lime juice provides a tart flavor, while the rum creates a perfect base, providing a smooth, rich backdrop for the fruit flavors.

Berry flowers

The Berry Blossom is made by blending berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Grenadine syrup adds a touch of sweetness and beautiful color to the drink, while vodka or gin provides a smooth, crisp base.

Watermelon Tequila Punch

This punch has a nice balance of sweetness from the watermelon juice, spicy smoky flavor from the paprika or chili powder, and the tartness of the lime juice, which pairs well with the tequila.

P.S.: Adjust the spice level to your liking, as it can be quite spicy.

Pineapple and Jalapeno Margarita

Another fruity cocktail suggested by Shashwat Prasad, mixologist at Shinya, Hyatt Regency Gurgaon is the Pineapple and Jalapeno Margarita. This fruity cocktail is made with pineapple and jalapeno slices along with brine, tequila, fresh lime juice and agave syrup.

“The best fruity cocktail is the Pineapple and Jalapeno Margarita. It is a tropical flavoured drink that is especially refreshing in the summer,” says Shaswant.

During summers, we can also opt for citrus or lemongrass-based drinks, says Arokia Doss, Head Chef, Malabar Coast.

2. OG Drinks

Now, if you want to stick to the traditional ways, and feel that fruit cocktails are not for you, here are some suggestions, which according to Chef Ishjyot Suri, Executive Chef and Founder of Mulk, Miniaturk and SJI Gourmet, will not only quench your thirst, suit the weather, but also keep you hydrated.

Here are some of their recommendations.

• MojitoA mixture of white rum, mint, lemon, sugar and soda water.
• gin and tonic: A simple mix of gin and tonic water, often with lemon.
• Sangria: It is a Spanish punch made from wine, fruit juices, soda water, fruit, and sometimes brandy.
• Coconut CaprioskaA blend of coconut syrup, coconut water, crushed ice, and brown sugar.

Even in summers, you can’t go wrong with a classic gin, tonic water and a slice of lemon, says Akshay, head chef at Kakapo by Xylo in New Delhi.

“Drink white liquors like vodka, tequila or gin, which usually have a lot of citrus and can keep you hydrated,” says Akshay.

“The wine is good in almost all seasons,” he adds.

What are the drinks you should avoid, especially in the summer?

Not all drinks are summer-friendly!

For example, Akshay says people should avoid heavy cream-based cocktails, as they can cause discomfort in the heat. He also asks people to avoid straight whiskey or bourbon, as they can heat up your body in the summer, and can be ‘less refreshing’.

He suggested people avoid consuming rum and any dark spirits as they contain high amounts of alcohol.

Ishijyot also recommends staying away from heavy beers and dark rum cocktails as they are high in alcohol and can leave us feeling dehydrated.

Finally, remember

Drink alcohol in moderation and be aware of its effects, and watch your pace when drinking and consider drinking non-alcoholic beverages to stay balanced.

In the meantime, here’s a quick guide on how not to drink too much alcohol when drinking.