14 Refreshing Summer Cocktails to Celebrate the New Year Penguin Random House South Africa

Raise a glass to the New Year with our curated selection of summer cocktails, perfect for toasting under sunny skies. From the refreshing Virgin Mary by Nicci Robertson to Luke Dale-Roberts’ tropical Pineapple and Vanilla Cosmo, these recipes celebrate bold flavours and creative flair. Whether you’re a fan of kombucha-infused twists, keto-friendly sippers, or classic crowd-pleasers, there’s something here to delight every palate. Mix up a Spekboom Gin & Tonic, impress your guests with Mmule Setati’s Summer Rosé Sangria, or savour Zanele van Zyl’s Long Island Iced Tea. Start 2025 with a splash of summer in your glass!

Spekboom Gin & Tonic

by Dianne Bibby

from Bibby’s More Good Food

“A perfect elixir on a hot summer’s day, using local wonder-plant, Spekboom.”

Summer Rosé Sangria

by Mmule Setati

from Feed My Tribe

“This is the perfect summer drink when you want to impress your tribe. Serve it in a big jug and leave your guests to quench their thirst.”

Keto Mojito

by Hendrik Marais

from Keto Lifestyle: Simple

Also try the Basil Gin and Tonic and the White Wine Berry Spritz.

Pomegranate Mojito

by Luke Dale-Roberts

from The Test Kitchen

Kombucha Paloma

by Dianne Bibby

from Bibby’s More Good Food

“Paloma, Spanish for ‘dove’, is a simple, straight-up tequila, lime and grapefruit-flavoured cocktail. Kombucha and prosecco add fresh complexity. And more bubbles. Cheerful and delicious.”

Pina Colada

by Zanele van Zyl

from Senidlile Kodwa?

Also try the Whisky Sour, Mint Mojito and Long Island Iced Tea.

Mandarin Old Fashioned

by Dianne Bibby

from Bibby’s More Good Food

“At first, robust and hard-hitting, settling to a lighter finish. The synergy between dark syrup and bourbon makes for a smooth, well-rounded mouthfeel. Fresh mandarin, although reformist, lends a mellow citrusy twist.”