Since it contains a dairy product, this one leans more toward interesting than refreshing -- if Memorial Day includes a heat wave -- but it meets any man's "goes down easy" requirement.   I made them for our viewing party one 4th of July when the parade used to pass by our house, and the paraders were jealous.   Courtesy of a co-worker from my days at The Phone Company.

3 Parts Licor 43 (you'll probably never use it for anything else)

2 Parts half & half

1 Part Rose's lime juice

Splash of vodka (Stoli Vanilla if you have it)

Shake with ice and strain into a martini glass rimmed with graham cracker crumbs.

Enjoy!

"Greenies"

1 can frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
1 2 liter Sprite

Mix the Sprite and limeade in a 2qt. pitcher. Fill the empty limeade can with vodka and add to the mixture (or however much "booze" you prefer). Stir and pour over ice. Enjoy!

I love gimlets!   Quick, easy, refreshing, and the type of gin makes all the difference.  I'm spoiled by Bombay Sapphire these days.  But what is "powdered" ice?

Sangria is making a comeback.  Why I don't know, but it's fairly easy to throw together.

For sure -- I get it!  That further rules out key lime pie martinis since the potency level isn't really up there.

Here's one of my favorites since I was a kid (yes, you read that right) and it can pack a punch, so to speak.  If Nate were still visiting here at AW he'd provide a testimonial, but you'll have to trust me that it has become legendary between us.  An old, old recipe from my (favorite) Aunt Mary, who was a horrible cook but sure knew how to have a good time.   I loved it when my mom would make this.   Usually it was a holiday thing, but it's perfect for summer.

Portsmouth Potion

1 Can frozen lemonade (the size that calls for 4-1/3 cans of water)

3 Cans water

1-1/3 Cans bourbon

Mix well in a Tupperware or other sealing pitcher/container and place in deep freeze.  Due to the amount of alcohol, it may take a couple of days to form a thick slush.

To serve, first take a large sturdy spoon and give the potion a good mixing, as some of the booze can have a tendency to separate and settle near the bottom.  Spoon into stem glasses of your choice -- martini or margarita glasses are easiest.  Return any remaining potion to the freezer between servings.

You can do variations with gin, vodka, tequila(?) or rum, or use limeade and rum.  I suppose slushy screwdrivers would be another option.   I like the bourbon version best, and you don't have to use the top shelf stuff either for delicious results. 

Be sure to pace yourselves.

I could for sure get behind a pitcher of whiskey sours!