The Gypsy

Unlike many vodka-based drinks that simply use the spirit to lend alcoholic oomph to a mixture of soda and fruit juice, the Gypsy uses vodka's neutral character to soften the powerful flavor of the drink's other main ingredient, the French herbal liqueur Benedictine.

Fizzy Gin and Lillet Punch

We threw a little shindig today to say goodbye to SE Ad Sales Director Erin Adamo. I mixed up this bubbly punch—it's a good brunch or predinner drink: a little tart, a little sweet, and a little more complex than you'd expect.

Beretta's Pamplemousse

We're always a bit wary of elderflower liqueur, but it doesn't take over in this supremely balanced and fresh-tasting gin cocktail, a signature brunch drink at Beretta in San Francisco.

The Bronx

Let's be honest: The Bronx is unlikely to be anyone's favorite drink. But while it's not exactly bottled excitement, The Bronx is actually pretty good, and surprisingly refreshing. Be sure to use fresh-squeezed orange juice (and if you add a dash or two of Angostura bitters, you've got a somewhat tastier Income Tax Cocktail on your hands), and approach it with an open mind.

Gin Daisy

This icy-cold sour is bright and tart, with delicate herbal and berry flavors and a pale pink color.

Grapefruit and Ginger Sparkler

Grapefruit, with its slightly bitter punch, used to throw me for a loop, but lately I've taken a real liking to it, embracing the pungent flavor. One of the ways I eased into is by pairing it with another strong flavor like ginger. Together this duo is hard to beat—spicy, citrusy and bright. But turn the duo into a trio by adding a little bubbly over top, and you've got yourself a cocktail that will keep you on your toes.

Sparkling Grapefruit Sangria With Lillet Rosé

This sparkling sangria makes use of the French aperitif Lillet Rosé, which comes already flavored with sweet and bitter orange peel and fruit liqueurs to boost the flavor of the pitcher drink.

The Vesper Cocktail

Drink like James Bond.

Blushing Betty Cocktail

Bourbon adds subtle toasty-sweet notes to a simple drink made with pink grapefruit juice. Shake this one up, and pat yourself on the back for taking a fresh-squeezed dose of Vitamin C.

Green Ghost

This tasty drink highlights the Chartreuse and will impress anyone who likes a pretty drink because unlike many pretty drinks, this one has flavor to match its beauty.