The sun has finally reared its effulgent head, and with it comes the long awaited warmth. It’s finally time to soak in some rays and enjoy the naturally slower pace the summer brings. And what better accompanies a good tan and lounging in a lawn chair than a nice cool cocktail? Syrupy, crudely-named bar cocktails hardly evoke placid summer refreshment, so here are a few buoying beverages for the hot summer days.

Pimm’s Cup: Named for the spiced gin-based liqueur contained in this quintessential summer beverage, Pimm’s Cup is a herbal and fresh cocktail, which will keep you as cool as the cucumber with which it is garnished.

– 2 oz Pimm’s No. 1 liqueur

– 3 oz lemonade

– Splash of club soda or ginger ale

Combine ingredients in a tall glass over ice. Garnish with a slice of cucumber and a lemon wedge.

Classic Shaken Margarita: Forgo the blended ice slushy that Margaritas have become in favour of the simple, classic, refreshing shaken Margarita.

– 2 oz tequila

– 1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec

– 1.5 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

Pour ingredients into a martini shaker with ice, shake vigorously. Wet rim of class with lime juice, and dip in coarse salt. Pour Margarita into glass and enjoy.

Tom Collins: A drink that brings cocktails back to their roots, the Tom Collins is the apex of warm-weather refreshment.

– 2 oz gin

– 3 oz club soda

– 1 oz lemon juice

– 1 tsp. superfine sugar

Combine ingredients in a highball glass over ice and garnish with a slice of orange or lemon. In a pinch, lemonade can be used as a substitute for the sugar and the lemon juice.

It’s high time you stash away your rum and cokes, rye and gingers, and Cosmopolitans for some simple, refreshing beverages that evoke the very essence of summer. When you need to beat the heat, nothing can compare with these refreshing cocktails. Undoubtedly they will certainly quench your thirst, but be sure to remember and always sip them slow.