Simple Mixes, Big Flavour: 3 Drinks You Can Make Barefoot on the Lawn
Simple Mixes, Big Flavour: 3 Drinks You Can Make Barefoot on the Lawn
There’s nothing quite like relaxing outside with friends, footy on the telly, and a cold drink in hand. For us Aussies, backyard barbies and sunny weekends are the perfect chance to unwind, sip something refreshing, and enjoy good company. But you don’t need to be a master bartender to whip up a tasty drink sometimes, simple is best.
In 2025, we’re seeing a shift in how Australians enjoy their drinks. Many are opting for quick, easy-to-make beverages that don’t compromise on flavour. It’s changing the way we gather, drink, and relax making quality, simple mixes more popular than ever. Here’s a look at three easy drinks you can make when you’re barefoot on the lawn, plus why they’re perfect for Aussie summers.
The Classic Gin and Soda with a Little Extra
A classic gin and soda has long been a backyard favourite. It’s simple, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather.
What makes this drink even better is adding a twist of native lemon or some fresh herbs like mint or sprigs of rosemary grown in your garden. These little extras boost the flavour and make the drink feel special without any fuss.
Imagine sitting back on a sunny arvo, a glass in hand, with a slice of lemon floating on top and a sprig of mint. It’s the kind of drink that’s easy to make, but always hits the spot.
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Ingredients |
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30–45 ml St Duke’s Harvey Dry Gin |
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Chilled soda water |
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Ice |
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1–2 slices of lemon or native citrus |
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Fresh mint or rosemary (optional) |
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How to prepare: Classic Gin and Soda |
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Any highball or everyday drinking glass is fine. Give it a quick rinse if it’s been sitting in the cupboard. |
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Fill the glass right up. The more ice you use, the colder and smoother the drink stays. |
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Measure 45ml of Harvey Dry Gin. |
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Top the glass with chilled soda water. You just be careful there’s no need to stir too much, just give it a gentle swirl so the gin mixes in. |
Vodka and Lime Fizz: A Zesty Quarter-hour Fix
Vodka is loved for being smooth and adaptable. One of the easiest, most versatile drinks to make with it is a Vodka Lime Fizz. Not only does the lime add a fresh, zingy punch, but this combo is quick to prepare.
Set up a few bottles of vodka, fresh limes, and soda water in your fridge, and anyone can whip up this drink. Simply squeeze the lime, pour vodka over ice, top with soda, and give it a quick stir. It’s light, refreshing, and has just enough zing to keep you cool on a hot Aussie day. Perfect when you want something that’s easy but tastes fresh and bright.
It’s a drink that suits everyone whether you’re celebrating a big backyard BBQ, a casual weekend, or just relaxing after work.
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Ingredients |
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45ml St Duke’s A1 Vodka |
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1 fresh lime (you’ll need juice + an optional wedge for garnish) |
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Cold soda water |
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Ice cubes |
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Optional: A pinch of sugar or a splash of sugar syrup if you prefer it slightly sweeter |
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How to Prepare: Vodka and Lime Fizz |
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Take a short glass or a tall highball — whatever you prefer. If you’ve had the glass sitting in the freezer, even better. It keeps the drink colder for longer, especially on hot arvo days. |
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Add plenty of ice. Don’t hold back here — a full glass of ice keeps the soda nice and fizzy and stops the drink from going watery. |
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Measure 45ml of St Duke’s A1 Vodka and pour it straight over the ice. The vodka should be cold from the fridge to give you the cleanest, smoothest taste. |
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Cut a fresh lime in half and squeeze the juice directly into the glass. If you like it extra zesty, use the full lime. For a milder flavour, half a lime will do the job nicely. |
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Fill the rest of the glass with chilled soda water. Pour slowly so the fizz doesn’t disappear too quickly. |
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Use a spoon or even a butter knife if that’s what’s handy. A quick stir is enough — you just want the lime and vodka to mix through without flattening the soda. |
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Add a lime wedge on the rim or drop one into the glass. That little touch makes the drink look fresh and gives each sip a bit more flavour. |
Coffee Liqueur on Ice: A Satisfying End to a Laid-back Day
Now, if you’re after something richer and a bit more indulgent, coffee liqueur hits the mark.
Take St Duke’s Coffee Liqueur, for example. Made locally using quality ingredients, it is velvety smooth, with bold coffee flavours. Pour it over ice, and you’ve got a perfect nightcap or a dessert-style drink to enjoy on the lawn as the sun dips down. Or mix it with a splash of milk for a quick, creamy treat that’s easy to make.
This drink is versatile and satisfying, especially if you enjoy a cozy, comforting sip after a day of outdoor fun. Best of all, it’s an easy way to enjoy a richer, more complex flavour without any hassle.
Ingredients45ml St Duke’s A1 Vodka |
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Soda water |
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Fresh lime |
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Ice |
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How to Prepare: Coffee Liqueur on Ice |
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Grab a short glass and drop in a few solid ice cubes. |
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Pour St Duke’s Coffee Liqueur straight over the top and let the chill bring out the richer notes of the coffee. |
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If you’d like something creamier, top it with a small splash of milk and give the glass a slow swirl. |
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It’s the kind of drink you take outside, sit back, and enjoy as the sky colours change simple, smooth, and just right after a full day. |
Keep Things Simple and Casual
The beauty of backyard drinks in Australia is just how straightforward they are. You don’t need a cocktail shaker, fancy garnishes, or hours in front of the fridge. All you really need is good-quality spirits like those from St Duke’s some ice, and a few fresh ingredients.
We prefer drinks that are easy to prepare, relaxing to drink, and perfect for sharing outdoors.
The Aussie Spirit Lifestyle
Enjoying these simple mixes with friends is more than just about the drinks; it’s about the culture of gathering outdoors, barefoot, and soaking up the sun. It’s about slowing down and appreciating the little moments with mates or family.
The relaxed Aussie spirit is about good times, good company, and simple pleasures. Whether you’re tapping a cold one, sharing a laugh, or just enjoying a peaceful afternoon, your drink should never get in the way of the fun.
Wrap-up: Explore More of What We Offer
If these easy mixes sound good to you, then you’ll love what St Duke’s has to offer. From our award-winning gin and smooth vodka to velvety coffee liqueur, all crafted with local ingredients and care for the environment, our spirits are made to elevate your backyard moments. They’re perfect for mixing, sipping neat, or sharing with mates.
Next time you’re planning a lazy day outside, grab a bottle of St Duke’s spirits, some fresh ingredients, and give these recipes a go. You’ll find that big, bold flavours don’t need to come with complex stepsthey come with good Aussie ingredients and a relaxed attitude.
Enjoy good times, good drinks, and footy on the telly. Cheers, mate!