This Watermelon and Mint Cocktail Is a Garden Party in a Glass

A garden-inspired cocktail tailor-made for outdoor drinking.

What if you could drink a watermelon salad? The Mint & Melon cocktail aims to answer that question by combining all the elements of this classic summer salad–juicy watermelon, freshly picked mint, a drizzle of honey, and a squeeze of lime–and adding a healthy splash of booze.

The booze in this case is mezcal, whose unique herby, smoky, citrusy, and earthy notes pairs perfectly with fresh garden ingredients. Garnished with an over-the-top abundance of mint, this is a wild and fun cocktail to enjoy in a shady garden on a hot day.

• 1. Step 1 – Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Step 2 – Add ice, cover, and shake until well chilled, approx. 10-15 seconds.
  3. Step 3 – Double strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
  4. Step 4 – Garnish with a bouquet of fresh mint.

By Ian Palmer of Veranda, August 4, 2025