Many of our PPM buildings have rooftops or other outdoor areas.

These serve as a perfect spot for inviting a few friends over and mixing a few summer cocktails.

Who doesn’t enjoy a nice refreshing summer cocktail?

If it’s fruity or smooth a cold summer drink always hits the spot!

We’ve put together a list of some refreshing drinks that will make your apartment the go-to summer hang out.

Limoncello Collins

A truly refreshing drink – lemony and light but not too sweet. Perfect with dinner or drinks with friends.
o Serves 8; In a pitcher, combine 16 ounces limoncello (lemon-flavored liqueur), 12 ounces gin, and 8 ounces lemon juice. Refrigerate until chilled. Add lemon slices and ice to glasses, pour some limoncello mixture and 2 ounces of club soda in each glass and garnish with mint.

Cajun Lemonade

The name alone makes this a tempting drink to try. Flavors are a tribute to New Orleans and is a little on the spicy side – but not too spicy – perfect for a hot summer night.

Serves 8; In a large pitcher combine 12 ounces white rum or vodka, 4 ounces Pimm’s No. 1, 8 ounces lemon juice, 4 ounces simple syrup (sugar and water), and ½ tablespoon Tabasco. Refrigerate until chilled. Put ice and 2-3 ounces of 7Up in glasses and add the mixture. Garnish with lemon slices.

Cucumber Margarita

Also a refreshing take on a classic drink – but the tequila provides some punch. A great drink with friends before a big night out in Chicago.

Serves 1; Wet the rim of your glass and dip it in salt. Add ice to the glass. In a cocktail shaker add: 2.5 ounces cucumber infused tequila, 1 ounce lime juice, 1 ounce simple syrup (sugar and water). Pour into glass and garnish with cucumber slices.

Champagne Punch

If you’re looking for a celebration drink – this is it. Whether it’s an accomplishment, bridal shower, or family party, there is always something to celebrate. And what’s a celebration without champagne?

Serves 2; Fill pitcher with ice. Pour 3 tablespoons grenadine, 3 tablespoons Cointreau, 2 tablespoons brandy and 1 ¾ cups champagne in the pitcher. Stir gently and then pour into glasses. Garnish with apples, raspberries or other seasonal fruit.

Spearmint Juleps

Sometimes fruity, sweet cocktails aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. This one has whiskey as the main ingredient but still manages to have a refreshing kick that you need in the summertime.

Serves 4; Combine 2.5 cups bourbon and 1 cup spearmint springs in a large pitcher. Refrigerate until chilled. Strain and discard the mint.

Add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, stir until dissolved. Divide the mixture among 4 ice-filled glasses and garnish with mint springs.