11 Essential Cocktails to Try in April

Ditch the dark spirits of winter for this vodka libation. The spirit combines with orange liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon and cranberry juices, rendering a brilliant red drink that’s just the right combination of fruity, sweet, tart and boozy.

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If you’ve previously found the Amaretto Sour to be overly sweet and not to your liking, you might want to try this perfected version and think again. Amaretto, bourbon, lemon juice, rich simple syrup and an egg white make a version of the classic that’s nutty, sour and strong with just a hint of sweetness.

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Give your classic G&T a spin with this fun twist. It couldn’t be easier: A simple mix of gin and tonic serves as the base for your choice of fruit and herbs. We suggest juniper berries, lemon and thyme, but feel free to experiment with whatever’s available until you find the ideal combination for you.

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The classic Margarita gets a hint of heat in this fresh recipe. Shake reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, triple sec and agave syrup with muddled jalapeño coins, then strain into a salt-rimmed rocks glass and enjoy.

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Embrace the fresh flavors of spring with this vibrant cocktail. Made with aged rum, fresh lime juice, simple syrup and pressed sugar snap pea with fennel bulb, this drink helps to welcome in the new season, no matter how chilly it may still be outside.

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This booze-forward classic is named for the French word for jewel, and one sip will show you why. This beauty, made with gin, sweet vermouth, green Chartreuse and Campari, boasts a luxurious mix that’s fit for royalty.

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If you’d like some nutrients along with your booze, try this juicy cocktail. Fresh beet juice adds an earthy flavor and plenty of vitamins to vodka, lemon juice and mint, while a splash of prosecco on top keeps everything light and bubbly.

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Clam juice brings a typical Bloody Mary to new levels in this Canadian favorite. Vodka, Clamato, Worcestershire and hot sauces, and horseradish form the base of the savory brunch drink, while cucumber, lime and parsley (plus a celery salt-rimmed glass) bring it all together.

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Allspice dram is a sometimes-underappreciated ingredient that makes a huge impact. Case in point: this cocktail. The allspice dram helps accentuate the savory and spicy notes in bourbon and Angostura bitters, while lime juice and simple syrup keep it all in balance.

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Give your Moscow Mule a makeover with this fun and smoky spin. Mezcal, ginger beer and lime juice get a pop of fruity flavor from passion fruit purée, while cucumber keeps everything cool and refreshing. Garnish with a cucumber slice, candied ginger and chile powder for an eye-popping presentation.

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When it’s not cold enough for a hot drink and not hot enough for a chilled cocktail, try this happy medium. London dry gin, bianco vermouth, bitters and water come together in a slightly chilled glass to make a refreshing drink you can enjoy whenever you’d like.

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