There’s nothing quite like a Southern summer evening—warm breezes, glowing fireflies, and the promise of good food and even better company. Here in the Upstate, we know how to do summer right: with fresh, local ingredients, handcrafted spirits, and plenty of porch time.
This season, elevate your outdoor gatherings with cocktails made from homegrown distilleries and dining that celebrates the bounty of the region. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a sunset supper on the porch, we’ve rounded up summer cocktail recipes and open-air meal ideas that are locally sourced and full of Southern soul.
Summer Cocktails with a Local Twist
When you’re mixing up something cool for a hot night, why not go local with the spirits? South Carolina distilleries are crafting world-class liquors right in our backyard, and these cocktails put them to good use.
1. Sweet Tea Shine Spritzer
Featuring: Palmetto Distillery Moonshine
Nothing’s more Southern than sweet tea—unless you spike it with a little moonshine. Mix Palmetto Peach or Blackberry Moonshine with chilled sweet tea and a splash of lemonade. Serve over ice with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint. It’s summer in a glass.
2. Cucumber Basil Gin Fizz
Featuring: Six & Twenty’s Old Money Gin
This crisp cocktail is made for the garden. Muddle fresh cucumber and basil in a shaker with lime juice, add Six & Twenty’s botanical-forward gin, and shake with ice. Strain into a glass and top with club soda. It’s refreshing, aromatic, and porch-perfect.
3. Strawberry Cream Bourbon Float
Featuring: Hollow Creek’s William Alan Cream Bourbon
This one’s for dessert lovers. Blend fresh strawberries with a touch of honey, then pour into a glass over ice. Add Hollow Creek’s cream bourbon and top with a little seltzer or vanilla soda. Think adult milkshake—sweet, creamy, and decadent.
4. Upstate Mule
Featuring: Six & Twenty Carolina Cream Whiskey
Combine a shot of Carolina Cream with ginger beer and a splash of lime. Serve in a copper mug over ice, garnished with a sprig of rosemary. It’s a smooth and spicy twist on a classic mule, perfect for kicking back on a summer night.
Outdoor Dining, Southern Style
When it comes to dining alfresco, the Upstate offers everything you need for a local, seasonal feast. Support local farmers and artisans by planning your summer menus around what’s growing and grazing nearby.
1. Backyard Sausage & Veggie Grill-Up
Get your grill going and feature Upstate-made sausages—spicy, smoked, or sweet—and grill them alongside local zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. Brush everything with olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning salt. Serve on fresh local rolls or alongside cornbread.
Pair with: A Sweet Tea Shine Spritzer and a light coleslaw made with red cabbage and local apples.
2. Farmstand Tapas Board
Create a shareable summer spread with Split Creek Farm goat cheeses, local honey, pickled okra, roasted peppers, and crusty sourdough from your favorite farmer’s market like th eAnderson Farmer’s Market. Add a side of herbed white bean dip and marinated tomatoes for a light and satisfying meal. Head on over to Kitchen Emporium for a wide variety of charcuterie items and serving pieces.
Pair with: The Cucumber Basil Gin Fizz and a pitcher of infused water with lemon and cucumber.
3. Sunset Porch Picnic
Layer a wooden tray with chicken salad sandwiches on rosemary focaccia, deviled eggs topped with chives, and fresh fruit salad made from local berries. Add a chilled pasta salad featuring Split Creek feta, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Pair with: Upstate Mule and a view of the fireflies coming out.
4. Fire Pit Flatbreads
Buy (or make!) flatbreads using local dough or naan, and top with goat cheese, caramelized onions, arugula, and grilled peaches. Warm them over the fire pit or grill until the edges are crisp and the cheese is soft and melty.
Pair with: Strawberry Cream Bourbon Float for a sweet and savory pairing.
Tips for Hosting a Summer Gathering
Set the mood: String lights, lanterns, and candles make every gathering feel magical.
Keep it simple: Opt for recipes that can be prepped ahead so you can enjoy your guests.
Go seasonal: Hit your local farmers market for inspiration—what’s fresh is what’s best.
Bug off: Natural citronella candles and herb bundles (like lavender and rosemary) help keep bugs at bay.
Chill the drinks: A galvanized tub filled with ice and local bottles makes a charming DIY drink station.
A Toast to the Season
There’s something so special about gathering outdoors in the summer, surrounded by good people, fresh food, and the laid-back beauty of the South. With a few local ingredients and some porch-ready cocktails, your summer can be full of flavor, laughter, and unforgettable evenings under the stars.
So here’s to staying cool, keeping it local, and making the most of every Southern sunset—cheers, y’all – or for us transplanted northerners – “Cheers you guys”.