College Drinks Classed Up (Slideshow)
Instead of: Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
Cinnamon-flavored whiskey is a gateway drink for beginning drinkers of brown liquor. Whether you poured a measure into an apple ale or shot it straight, it was admittedly delicious. And whiskey is still delicious; so is cinnamon. Why stop now? Combine the two in a Yamazaki Autumn Delight with apple cider and cinnamon sticks.
Instead of: Cranberry Juice & Vodka
Try: Honey Berry Sling
College drinking often requires something easy and something cheap—a Cranberry-Vodka for example. Leaving college doesn't mean ditching the ease. So how about a Honey Berry Sling? It's made with vodka and cranberry, but comes with raspberry, honey and a twist of lime.
Instead of: Jungle Juice
Try: Port Royal Punch
What's one way to quench the thirst of an entire house party? Fill a jumbo-sized plastic container with cheap vodka, fruit punch, and if you're feeling really rowdy, maybe a tall energy drink. Here's a better version of that model: Throw a summer barbecue and serve your guests this Port Royal Punch. Nothing says, "I'm ready to have fun and I'm glad you're all here," like providing a booze-filled bowl of rum, Sprite, fruit juices and Grenadine.
Instead of: Lemon Drop shots
Try: Limoncello
It's sweet, sour and can pack a quick punch. Lemon Drop shooters get the job done, sweetly. But for a more sophisticated citrus drink, try the Italian digestivo Limoncello. Don't be fooled, it may be served in a shot-like glass but it is intended to be sipped. Enough with the lemon shots; take time to enjoy a more nuanced citrus drink.
Instead of: Whiskey & Coke
Try: Tallulah
There are two drinks the average college-aged man will order in a bar: a cold brew or a Jack and Coke. The latter is a classic for whiskey lovers and soda drinkers alike. You can still have your Jack Daniel's and Coke with this one—we would never take that away. But try mixing those items with peanut orgeat to make a nutty-flavored Tallulah.