Mangoes are the essence of summer, being filled with tropical sweetness and a luscious, velvety texture that has the capacity to turn any cocktail into something sublime. If you like something crisp and clean or silky and rich, mangoes give a natural glow to every drink. Following are some innovative mango-based cocktails that introduce a new spin to traditional summer drinks.
Here's a list of mango cocktails that are perfect for summer, featuring exotic, refreshing, & vibrant flavors:
1. Mango Basil Smash
Herby and citrusy, this cocktail mixes fresh basil with ripe mango for a drink that's as scented as it is tasty.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh mango purée
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cubes
- Basil sprig and mango slice for garnish
Preparation:
Muddle basil leaves with honey syrup and lemon juice in a glass to unlock the aromas. Add mango purée and gin, then shake well with ice. Strain over fresh ice in a glass and garnish with a sprig of basil and a slice of mango.
A stemless cocktail glass is the ideal vessel for this drink, as it allows the bright golden hue of the mango to show through while concentrating the fragrances of basil. Ice cubes made of clear ice serve to preserve the drink's fresh, clean character.
2. Charred Mango and Mezcal Cooler
Those who like smoky flavors will appreciate this cocktail, which pairs the rich, earthy undertones of mezcal with the caramelized sweetness of charred mango.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz mezcal
- 1.5 oz charred mango purée (grilled mango blended with a squeeze of lime juice)
- 0.5 oz agave syrup
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Chili salt for rim
- Grilled mango slice for garnish
Preparation:
Caramelize mango slices lightly and puree into a smooth paste. Rim a glass with a chili salt rim, and charge it with ice. In a shaker, mix mezcal, charred mango purée, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice and shake vigorously. Strain into the charged glass and garnish with a grilled mango slice.
A tumbler glass brings out the smoky and citrusy flavors of this cocktail, permitting the rich flavors to unfold as the ice melts gradually. A large ice sphere is a good choice here, avoiding over-dilution without diluting the drink.
3. Spiced Mango & Coconut Fizz
A spicy tropical treat, this cocktail combines rich coconut, fizzy soda, and a hint of ginger for a beautifully balanced summer sipper.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz white rum
- 2 oz mango purée
- 1 oz coconut water
- 0.5 oz ginger syrup
- 2 oz soda water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint and coconut flakes for garnish
Preparation:
In a shaker, mix rum, mango purée, coconut water, and ginger syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top with soda water and stir gently. Garnish with fresh mint and a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
A highball glass is the ideal vessel for this drink, leaving sufficient space for the layers of flavor to unfold as the bubbles ascend. Ice cubes or crushed ice make the drink crisp and light.
4. Mango Cardamom Old Fashioned
The bold, sophisticated spin on the Old Fashioned, this variation uses mango and cardamom to impart a subtle warmth to the classic whiskey drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz mango syrup (mango mixed with a hint of honey)
- 2 dashes cardamom bitters
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel and mango slice for garnish
Preparation:
Stir bourbon, mango syrup, and cardamom bitters with a large ice cube in a glass until properly chilled. Express an orange peel over the cocktail by twisting it to release the oils, then drop it in along with a mango slice.
A whiskey glass with a heavy bottom is a good match for this cocktail, as it directs attention to the melting ice and deep flavors. A carved ice cube or whiskey stones preserve the integrity of the cocktail without dilution.
The Final Sip
Mango's adaptability makes it an excellent cocktail ingredient, easily pairing with smoky, spicy, herbal, and tropical flavors. Whether it's a fruity and fresh smash, a smoky mezcal cooler, or a sophisticated twist on an Old Fashioned, there's a mango cocktail for any situation. The proper glassware and ice can quietly elevate the experience, making every sip as great as the firs
