When summer hits, it’s time to swap out the neat pours and fireside drams for highballs, juleps, and boozy lemonades. Bourbon may be best known for cozy, cold-weather cocktails, but the right bottle can shine just as brightly over ice on a hot day. Think light, citrus-friendly, and smooth — bourbons that balance sweetness, spice, and proof without overpowering the rest of the glass. Whether you’re mixing up a refreshing Mint Julep, a tangy Whiskey Smash, or a bourbon-forward punch, these ten bottles will make your summer cocktails sing.
Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond
Affordable, bold, and dependable, this 100-proof bourbon brings enough structure to cut through citrus and ice without stealing the spotlight. Perfect for Whiskey Sours and bourbon lemonades.
Maker’s Mark
Soft, wheated, and gently sweet, Maker’s Mark is a classic for a reason. Its mellow profile pairs beautifully with fruit-forward cocktails like a Strawberry Smash or a cherry-laced Old Fashioned.
Four Roses Yellow Label
A crowd-pleasing blend that’s light on its feet, with floral and honeyed notes that play well in highballs and iced teas. This is your go-to for long, lazy porch drinks.
Wild Turkey 101
Spicy, full-flavored, and great in bold builds like the Boulevardier or a high-proof Julep. It holds its own with vermouths, bitters, and strong citrus — ideal for serious summer sipping.
Old Forester
Rich, caramel-driven, and robust, Old Forester brings depth to simple cocktails like the Brown Derby. It’s also fantastic in boozy slushies or bourbon-iced coffee.
Buffalo Trace
Smooth, vanilla-kissed, and easygoing, this beloved bottle is the perfect base for a Blackberry Smash or classic Mint Julep. It’s complex enough to sip but lively enough to mix.
Woodford Reserve
Elegant and spicy with notes of dried fruit and toasted oak, Woodford makes elevated cocktails with character. Try it in a Bourbon Peach Tea or a rosemary-infused lemonade.
Basil Hayden’s
Low-proof and light-bodied, Basil Hayden’s is tailor-made for sessionable cocktails. Its gentle spice and subtle sweetness make it a refreshing addition to ginger ale or citrus-forward drinks.
Elijah Craig Small Batch
Rich and toasty with vanilla and nutmeg, Elijah Craig brings warmth to fruity summer drinks like an apricot sour or bourbon-spiked sangria. A versatile pick for creative bartenders.
New Riff Bottled-in-Bond
Bright, citrusy, and full of youthful energy, New Riff is a newer distillery making a big impact. It shines in everything from bourbon rickeys to honey-laced spritzes.
Summer bourbon cocktails are all about balance — you want flavor without heft, richness without syrupy weight. These ten bourbons deliver just that: versatility, complexity, and refreshment. So grab your shaker, a big bucket of ice, and your favorite fruit — because bourbon isn’t just for winter. It’s made for summer, too.