Cheers to Spring: Miami’s Coolest Cocktails & Mocktails
Written & Published by Angie LaGuardia In Miami, springtime isn’t just a season — it’s a reason to raise your glass. Sun-kissed days, tropical fruits at their peak, and ice-cold cocktails that sparkle as brightly as the skyline. As the spring sun graces Miami’s palm-lined avenues, and ocean breezes tease our senses, there is no better way to embrace the season than with a chilled drink in hand. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, entertaining friends at a backyard brunch, or unwinding after a sun-drenched day, these tropical drink recipes will transport you straight into the heart of Miami’s vibrant lifestyle. From sparkling cocktails to dreamy mocktails, we’ve curated this selection of refreshing sips to brighten your days and lift your spirits. So grab your blender, pick up some fresh local fruits, and let’s toast to the magic of springtime in the Magic City! Sparkling White Sangria Recipe by Jennifer Segal A festive and fruity crowd-pleaser, this Sparkling White Sangria sparkles with life — just like a Miami evening. With a medley of citrus and stone fruits and a bubbly finish, it’s perfect for garden parties, rooftop gatherings, or a serene sunset moment at home. Servings: 4Total Time: 15 minutes Ingredients: 1 oz (2 tbsp) brandy or cognac 1 oz (2 tbsp) orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier) 1/3 cup superfine sugar (adjust for sweetness preference) 1 orange, halved 2 limes 1 small apple (Fuji or Honeycrisp), peeled and chopped 1 nectarine, chopped 1 bottle (750 ml) chilled sparkling wine (Cava, Prosecco, or Champagne) 1 cup lemon-lime soda (like Sprite) A few bunches of frozen grapes Instructions: In a large pitcher, combine brandy, orange liqueur, and sugar. Squeeze the juice from one lime and half of the orange into the pitcher. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Slice the remaining orange half and add to the pitcher along with the chopped apple and nectarine. Pour in the sparkling wine and lemon-lime soda. Add a generous bunch of frozen grapes for a chill effect without watering down the drink. Serve over ice cubes in individual glasses. Garnish with small bunches of frozen grapes and lime slices. Don’t forget to spoon in the luscious fruit for extra flavor! Editor’s Tip: Miami locals, visit Fresh Market Coconut Grove for the freshest selection of fruits and premium sparkling wines. Citrus Bourbon SmashCrafted by Miami SHOOT Magazine For those who savor bold flavors with a refreshing twist, this Citrus Bourbon Smash elevates the classic to vibrant Miami heights. Spotlighting sun-kissed local citrus and aromatic mint, it captures the spirited essence of spring in the Magic City. Smooth, bold, and kissed by citrus sunshine, this Citrus Bourbon Smash is the gentleman’s answer to a springtime cocktail. With bright notes of orange and lemon balanced by the deep warmth of bourbon and the refreshing lift of mint, it’s perfect for an upscale backyard gathering or a sunset toast overlooking Biscayne Bay. Servings: 1Total Time: 5 minutes Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon Juice of 1/2 locally grown lemon Juice of 1/2 ripe Florida orange 1 oz simple syrup (or honey syrup for added depth) Fresh mint leaves, plus sprig for garnish Orange peel, for garnish Ice cubes Instructions: In a cocktail shaker, muddle a few mint leaves with lemon juice, orange juice, and simple syrup to release the bright, herbal oils. Add bourbon and a handful of ice cubes. Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an elegant twist of orange peel and a sprig of mint for that final flourish. Editor’s Tip: Stroll through Coconut Grove Saturday Market and let the zesty aroma of sun-ripened oranges and lemons guide your selection. Locally grown citrus will brighten your Bourbon Smash with authentic Miami sunshine. What Makes This Cocktail Unique:This isn’t your typical Bourbon Smash. By layering freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices, it delivers a bright, Miami-inspired twist to the traditional formula. Local citrus, fresh mint, and a sleek rocks glass presentation make it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Think of it as your go-to drink when you want bold flavor without the weight of winter cocktails — a smooth sipper, perfect for Miami’s sunlit days and breezy nights. Food Pairing Tip: Pairs beautifully with light grilled dishes, like citrus-marinated shrimp or charred vegetables, for a full Miami springtime spread. Piña Colada MocktailAdapted from Bon Appétit Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this creamy, non-alcoholic Piña Colada mocktail. It’s frothy, luscious, and captures the essence of our sun-kissed city. Ideal for all ages, it delivers a taste of vacation in every sip. Prep Time: 10 minutesTotal Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks 2 cups ice cubes 6 oz (3/4 cup) cream of coconut 2 oz (1/4 cup) full-fat unsweetened coconut milk or heavy cream Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp) Pineapple slices and/or maraschino cherries for garnish Instructions: Place frozen pineapple, ice, cream of coconut, coconut milk (or heavy cream), and lime juice into a blender. Blend until smooth and frosty. Pour into glasses and garnish with pineapple slices and maraschino cherries for that playful, festive finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your instant escape! Editor’s Tip: Add a tropical twist by serving in a hollowed-out pineapple for your next pool party. And for a local flair, pick up your pineapples at Robert Is Here Fruit Stand & Farm. Closing Toast: Whether you’re raising a glass of sparkling sangria, toasting with the bold citrus bourbon smash, or cooling off with a creamy piña colada mocktail, these Miami-inspired drinks are your ticket to savoring the joys of spring. Share your creations with us @msmonline, and let the sunshine pour into every delightful sip. Cheers to endless Miami days and tropical nights! This feature is part of our seasonal “Spring in Miami” series. Discover more at www.miamishoot.com.
