They always say that golf is really a mental game. Once you have your form down, it’s really you versus yourself when you’re on the links. When it comes to getting into “the zone”, it really takes letting go and staying present. This helps you achieve optimal performance. The greatest golfers in the world live in the zone. Now a good cocktail doesn’t actually get you into the zone. However, they are one of the perfect golf tailgating ideas to help you relax, unwind, and watch the PGA tour. So in honor of the pros in the zone on the PGA tour, we’ve put together a list of the best golf cocktails to enjoy whether you’re kicking back at the clubhouse or tailgating with friends. Grab your bartending tools, and get ready to turn your tailgate into the 19th hole!
1. Famous Thirst Quenching Transfusion
The Transfusion is also known as “Golf’s greatest cocktail.” It’s served at most tournaments and is a staple cocktail at Augusta National in Georgia.
The transfusion is a perfect summer drink. It’s light and refreshing. It’s lovely to sip at a tournament along the 9th hole or just at home watching the match. Vodka, ginger beer, lime juice, and grape juice make up the base of the cocktail, and you can serve it over ice to make it really authentic.
2. The Sought After Birdie Cocktail
Named after the sought after golf score, the Birdie cocktail is great for summer.
It’s a blend of citrus flavors like orange and pineapple mixed with rum and grenadine. Shake in a cocktail maker with ice cubes and enjoy. It’s a cocktail for people who like something a little sweeter. Sweet like getting a birdie on a tough hole.
3. The Soaring Eagle
If you make a birdie on a hole, that’s always exciting. However, if you make an eagle, then you’re really playing in the zone.
This cocktail is definitely not for everyone. It has an interesting combination of egg white and Creme de Violette in it. However, not everyone can make an eagle either. It’s easy to make, simply add the ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice and serve. If you want, you can also add a cherry for the garnish.
4. The Bobby Jones
Bobby Jones was one of the most important figures in golf history. He helped design the Augusta National Golf Club and was one of the original founders of the Master Tournament. Though he himself never became a professional golfer, he was one of the most successful amateur golfers to ever play.
The Bobby Jones is his signature cocktail and his favorite for on the course. It’s a delicious blend of brandy, Creme de Cacoa, and grenadine. You can also learn more about Bobby Jones and his legacy in this great profile from Today’s Golfer.
5. The Tiger Woods Legacy Cocktail
We all know that Tiger Woods is one of the greatest living golfers. He helped inspire an entire generation to hit the links. Tiger is still a fun golfer to watch. Many say his best days are behind him, but we have to disagree. At his level of talent, you never know what he’ll do next. In the meantime, we can celebrate his legacy with a Tiger Woods cocktail.
This cocktail is super easy and is just a delicious combination of vodka, cranberry juice, and lemon juice. Tart and sweet, perfect for a hot summer day.
6. The John Daly
Another golfer that never fails to entertain on the PGA tour is John Daly.
He may be known for having the most colorful outfits on the tour, but he’s also known for his impressive driving distance. The man has one of the longest swings on the tour. The Jon Daly cocktail is not as flamboyant as he is, but it is essentially a boozy Arnold Palmer which when you think about it makes a lot of sense. John Daly is skilled like Arnold Palmer but with a little spice. We love this cocktail, it’s a perfect sipping drink for the PGA tour.
7. The Arnold Palmer
Speaking of golf cocktails. No golf drink menu would be complete without an Arnold Palmer. Arnold Palmers are just a half and half blend of lemonade and iced tea. You can serve it with a lemon wedge over ice for a refreshing drink. This is perfect for the days where you want to unwind with a cocktail, but don’t want the alcohol.
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Arnold Palmer
An arnold palmer drink is in honor of Arnold Palmer, a four time green jacket winner who would always order a mixture of sweet tea and lemonade…
8. Par 4 Cocktail
Par 4 is the most common par rating for golf courses. So it is only fitting there’s a Par 4 cocktail.
This cocktail has flavors from the South and uses peach Southern Comfort, amaretto, sweet and sour mix, and sprite. It’s an unusual blend that absolutely nails it.
9. Golf Course Signature Drinks
While we were hunting around for great golf-themed cocktails, we came across this brilliant list from Links magazine. In it they feature nine of the signature cocktails from golf courses around the world. Imagine making the signature cocktail of each golf club when the tournament is playing. We think this could be one of the most fun golf tailgating ideas. We can’t wait to try all of these ourselves.
Our Garden Point Of View
Desert Heat Cocktail
Making golf cocktails is one of our favorite tailgating ideas for the PGA tour, and now you don’t even need to visit the country club to enjoy them! Check out our post on 6 Classic Masters Recipes From The Augusta National Golf Club Menu for food to go with your drinks.
We share tips, techniques, and great tailgating ideas for what to drink at your next party. Let us know in the comments your favorite golf drinks. We’d love to try them out ourselves at the next match!
