Inspired by an extremely sticky evening and Drink Up, I started my weekend early with Darryl Robinson's gin cocktail, the Cu Collins. Gin is one of my favorite liquors because of its distinctive flavors—gins are re-distilled to infuse them with spices and flavors from juniper berries and other botanicals. Darryl's riff on a Tom Collins (traditionally mixed with gin, lemon juice, sugar and soda water) includes cucumber, herbs (I used basil) and lime. It's pure genius—limeade with a cool, refreshing and bubbly twist, all complimenting the herbal notes of the gin. I could (and might!) drink this all summer long.

Irresistible Favorite: Tequila Sangria from Drink Up

A Very Cool Take: Icebreaker Mojitos from Chuck's Day Off

Simple Twist: Tequila Lemonade from Chuck's Day Off

A New Way to Drink Beer: Darryl's Ginger Ale from Drink Up