The dog days of summer haven’t quite hit us yet, although with the rapidly changing global climate who knows exactly when they’ll be here. In honor of two drinking holidays (Today is National Cognac Day and June 10th is National Iced Tea day), we present two refreshing recipes to help you keep cool. Stay tuned throughout the summer as we present more heat-busting recipes. Of course, we always welcome your submissions as well!

Camus-Rita
2 oz Camus VSOP Elegance (note: you can use other cognacs as well)
1 oz lime juice
1 oz orange juice
1 oz Triple Sec

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into glass, garnish with slice of lime. Also tasty when served on the rocks.

Sparkling Tea
makes one pitcher
4 cups water
8 red herbal tea bags (such as lemon zinger or hibiscus)
2 cups Wild Turkey 81 whiskey
splash of club soda
juice of one lemon
cherries for garnish

In a large saucepan, boil 2 cups water. Remove from heat. Add tea bags. Steep 10 minutes; discard tea bags. Add 2 cups cold water to tea. Stir in Wild Turkey 81. Transfer to pitcher and chill. Just before serving, add lemon juice and a splash of club soda for a touch of refreshing fizz. Serve over ice.