5 Best Spring Drinks to Bring in the Warm Weather

The weather is getting warmer, the sunshine is coming out here in Oregon, and the best news of all? We have a new outdoor patio to enjoy the changing weather. What better way to usher out the cold and bring in the sun than with a delicious and strong seasonal spring drink, some friends, and some good food? Here at Trellis, we are all about enjoying a drink that matches the season, and with warm weather quickly approaching, this is what we recommend for springtime.

Mint Julep

Nothing says springtime drink more than a Mint Julep. This drink was first created in the 18th century to settle the stomach (thanks to the soothing mint) but has since evolved into the quintessential springtime drink. If you’ve ever attended a Kentucky Derby party, or the race itself, you know why. The Mint Julep is the signature drink of this famous springtime horse race, both because it’s refreshingly light, but also because it is served in a special silver cup. We’d enjoy these drinks on our new patio with some appetizers and excellent conversation.

Huckleberry Lemon Drop

Huckleberry grows aplenty in the Pacific Northwest, so much so that it is actually the state fruit of Idaho. We take advantage of this local treat by serving it up cocktail style. With Wild Roots huckleberry vodka, Cointreau, lemon, and simple syrup, this drink is perfectly light for warmer weather and is a refreshing break from heavier drinks that are typically consumed in colder temperatures. Have this drink with a salad (you may or may not want to add our famous french fries to your meal), for a feel-good meal.

Tom Collins

A Tom Collins really should be a more popular drink than it is, especially in the springtime. If you enjoy lemonade (who doesn’t), next time you come and dine with us, ask for a Tom Collins, which is just like a boozy, sparkling lemonade. Made with Gin, the Tom Collins is a simple cocktail that is ideal for a no-fuss spring drink. Jerry Thomas, aka “the father of American mixology”, created this drink in 1876, which is a combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and sparkling water. It is typically served in a tall Collins glass over ice and with a cherry for garnish.

Whiskey Smash,

If you are a novice whiskey drinker, starting with a simple whiskey smash is a good idea. This drink is the perfect one to order at a restaurant or bar simply because it does take some time to prepare. So, while you enjoy good food and conversation, let us do the heavy lifting to prepare the perfect springtime drink for you. This classic springtime drink is similar to a Tom Collins and it is made with mint, lemon juice, simple sugar, and of course, whiskey. 

Spicy Margarita

It’s probably just the Oregonian in us, but anytime the weather is sunny, it seems like a margarita is appropriate. Even if it’s still cooler springlike temperatures, as long as the sun is out, enjoying a margarita just makes sense to us! To feel like you are transported to tropical weather, come stop by for our spicy margarita, which is sure to please. Made with habanero infused tequila, Cointreau, lime, lemon, and serrano simple, this spicy drink will take any meal up a notch. Enjoy drinking and dining al fresco and pair this drink with our classic burger for the most perfect meal we can think of.

With warmer weather at our doorstep, take advantage of this time of year by having a planned or impromptu dinner with friends or family at Trellis. This mild, sunny weather is only here for so long so enjoy it while it lasts. And, what is better than a great meal, seasonal drinks, and sunshine in the Willamette Valley? We hope to see you soon at Trellis!