Summer has a special way of making everything seem a little more relaxed and vibrant - and our drinks should match the mood. Whether you're relaxing in a sunny garden, raising a toast with friends after work or enjoying a beautiful sunset, the right summer cocktail can make the moment unforgettable.
At BESO Bar & Dinner, we believe in the magic of a well-made drink. From classic cocktails to fresh, fruity modern drinks and combinations, our cocktail menu is a specially curated mix of summer flavours. Let's take a look at some of the season's most popular cocktails, their interesting stories and why they deserve a place at your table this summer.
Popular cocktails for summer
What makes a cocktail indispensable for summer? Summer cocktails are light, refreshing and often with a slightly playful taste. They're easy to drink, have bright colours and are designed to help beat the summer heat - whether it's on the beach or at the bar. Summer cocktails are among the most popular drinks of the season, combining freshness and pleasure. We've noticed that certain drinks invariably retain their popularity year after year, becoming classics that always find their place on the summer menu. They're not just in vogue, they're a favourite of many. These popular cocktails combine flavour, style and a bit of sophistication and are perfect for warm days and even warmer evenings.
Which classic cocktails are always a good choice for summer?
Classic cocktails are not just a tried-and-tested recipe - they are true emblems of style. While they may not surprise with anything new, they impress with a clean taste, perfect balance and a dash of history in every sip.
Here are three timeless cocktails that capture the spirit of summer beautifully, and which we proudly serve with our own BESO Bar & Dinner twist.
Aperol spritz
If summer had a color, it would probably be the orange color of Aperol. The Aperol Spritz has become a favorite cocktail around the world during the warmer months, and with good reason. It's light, slightly bitter, with perfect carbonation and an impressive appearance.
The drink first appeared in northern Italy in the early 20th century, when Austrian soldiers diluted Italian wines with a little water. By the 1950s, Aperol had established itself as a beverage and so its modern form was born - Aperol, Prosecco and Soda.
At BESO Bar & Dinner, we keep the classics but enhance the experience with high-quality Prosecco and fresh orange slices served over ice in large wine glasses that just ooze summer.
Mojito cocktail
A mojito is the ultimate refreshing drink. With its combination of white rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar and soda, it's a drink that unusually cools you down from the first sip.
The origin of the mojito dates back to 16th century Cuba, where its original version was used for medicinal purposes.
Over time it has evolved into the cocktail we know and love today - light, citrusy and full of tropical charm. One of the reasons mojitos have remained a summertime favorite is the use of fresh ingredients - especially mint. Stirring the mint leaves releases their essential oils, giving the drink its distinctive aroma and fresh feeling. Mixed with aromatic lime juice and sparkling water, it is the ultimate refreshing drink.
Interestingly, the mojito was a favourite of Ernest Hemingway, who regularly enjoyed it at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana. His approval helped establish the cocktail's worldwide reputation.
Sangria
This Spanish classic is a fruit punch traditionally made with red wine, sliced fruit, orange juice and brandy. Over the years it has evolved to include white wine variants (known as 'sangria blanca') and even sparkling drinks.
The word "sangria" is derived from "sangre," the Spanish word for blood, meaning a deep red color.
The roots of sangria go back to Ancient Rome, where wine was often mixed with water, herbs and spices to make it more palatable and safe to drink. The version we know today, however, is an entirely Spanish creation that became popular in the 20th century - especially after it was introduced at the 1964 New York World's Fair. One of sangria's renowned qualities is its unpretentiousness. A variety of fruits can be used - oranges, lemons, berries, peaches - to tailor the sweetness and strength to your preferences. It's not only delicious, but visually striking, making it a hit at outdoor dinners.
Whether you're ordering an Aperol Spritz with a taste of Italian summer, a perfectly stirred Mojito that brings a hint of a trip to Havana, or a beautifully balanced Sangria bursting with fresh fruit and vibrant flavor - every cocktail at BESO Bar & Dinner is designed to put you in a good mood.
Each of these popular cocktails has a rich history and its own personality - bringing a dash of culture and refreshment. So the next time you just feel like getting a taste of summer with one of these timeless drinks, come to BESO Bar & Dinner and enjoy the season in style.
Questions and answers
Why are cocktails like Aperol Spritz, Mojito and Sangria so popular in summer?
They're light, refreshing, classic and made with fresh ingredients that are suitable for warm weather.
What makes Aperol Spritz unique compared to other summer drinks?
Its bright colour, bittersweet taste and low alcohol content make it ideal for relaxed summer evenings.
Is there a story behind the Mojito cocktail?
Yes - it originated in Cuba in the 16th century and was later popularised by Ernest Hemingway.