Sure, a combination of Gatorade and vodka seems like an ideal summer beverage: hydration and libation.
However, maybe this summer it's time to branch out and try something new.
Here's a trio of tried-and-true summer beverages, sure to help you beat the heat.
Lemon Blaster
My mom taught me how to make this, and Mother knows best. Combine one can of frozen lemonade concentrate, one can of beer and 12 ounces of whiskey in a blender. Top it off with ice, blend well and enjoy. This slushy concoction doesn’t taste boozy, but it isn’t overly sweet like a lot of ready-made mixers.
Hefeweizen
German wheat beers have plenty of taste to satisfy the discerning palate, but keep things light and almost fruity at the same time. Weihenstephaner is a solid choice for a classic hefe: Those guys have been making beer since the eighth century. If you want, toss in an orange slice for an ideal summer beer.
Gin and Tonic
British colonists in the tropics got tired of their bitter anti-malarial medicine quinine, so they mixed it with liquor. Brilliant! There’s no set ratio for this classic cocktail, but one part gin to two parts tonic is a good place to start. Garnish with a lime wedge. If you can afford to go top-shelf, nothing beats Bombay Sapphire.