Beefeater is my favorite gin so when they come out with a new edition, even something as suspiciously named as the recent Beefeater Summer Edition, I am curious, even if more than a little skeptical.

It seems, according to the press release, SE is made in “a light and delicate style,” and if you think this means it has less of the traditional botanicals, especially juniper, and less alcohol, you are correct. Tasted neat or in a martini, it is Beefeater light. This is not why I drink gin.

But to my surprise and pleasure, this scaled back version is ideal for light and zesty summer cocktails, especially those made with fresh fruit juice like this refreshing summer cooler.

Beefeater Summer Gin Fizz

3 oz Beefeater Summer Edition

1.5 oz fresh squeezed ruby grapefruit juice

Shake well with ice and pour into a tall glass

Add a splash of soda and garnish with a wheel of grapefruit