Spicy Cocktails

March 18, 2013

When it's hot and steamy outside, sometimes the best refresher is, paradoxically, a drink with heat to match. These ten spicy cocktails combine fiery flavor with cooling fresh fruit and herbs.

The Killer B

The Killer B

This fiery cocktail of gin, lemon, and a simple syrup made with Thai chile combines tart, sweet, spicy, and bitter all in one sip. See the recipe for The Killer B »Helen Rosner
Michelada con Camarones

Michelada con Camarones

A spicy beer cocktail with shrimp is appetizer and refreshing drink all in one--perfect for a hot summer night. See the recipe for Michelada con Camarones »Todd Coleman
The Borderline Escape

The Borderline Escape

Fresh cantaloupe, tequila, and smoky cayenne pepper come together in this cocktail inspired by the chile-dusted fruit street snacks of Mexico City. See the recipe for The Borderline Escape »Helen Rosner
Mezcalita de Piña

Mezcalita de Piña

Mezcal, grilled pineapple, jalapeño, and lime lend a festive kick to the classic margarita.Todd Coleman
Oaxaca Cooler

Oaxaca Cooler

Muddled cucumber, lemon, and a pinch of salt are a refreshing match for Zignum, an Oaxacan mezcal. See the recipe for Oaxaca Cooler »Anna Stockwell
Spicy Shiso Smash

Spicy Shiso Smash

Thai red chiles reach a hot-cool balance with slices of cucumber, shiso leaves, and lime juice in this white rum cocktail. See the recipe for Spicy Shiso Smash »Maxime Iattoni
Cranberry Crush

Cranberry Crush

Here the tartness of pure cranberry juice combines well with the earthy heat of ginger beer and not-too-sweet spiced rum.Helen Rosner
Devil's Garden

Devil's Garden

Chipotle-infused mezcal lends a subtle kick and Cynar a hint of mystery to this refreshing tequila drink flavored with mint and lime.MacKenzie Smith
mint julep

Kentucky vs. Morocco Cocktail

A Kentucky tin-cup mint julep meets Moroccan bazaar with dried-fruit-infused bourbon and simple syrup flavored with Maghreb spices. See the recipe for Kentucky vs. Morocco Cocktail »Chuck Ortiz
Piri Pressure Cocktail

Piri Pressure Cocktail

Tequila, lime, hot sauce, and frozen pineapple are a natural combination. This cocktail uses piri piri chili sauce popular in southern Africa. See the recipe for Piri Pressure Cocktail »Ganda Suthivarakom

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