Lemon

The French often serve flavored wine as an aperitif. This one has a base of red wine infused with orange, lemon, vanilla and cloves; it is later mixed with raspberry brandy and sugar. The drink is best at cool room temperature, accompanied by nibbles such as olives, almonds and crudités. It also makes an excellent Christmas present  — just double or triple the recipe, and pour the drink into pretty bottles. Be sure to begin the "winemaking" process at least three weeks before you plan to have the wine or give it as a gift.

Last year, while traveling near the Amazon in Peru, I stayed at a delightful river camp north of Iquitos. Wanting a drink somewhat drier than a Pisco Sour, I created  — with the assistance of the bartender  — the "Anaconda." It is simple but proved most refreshing after my daily jungle treks.

Fruit-filled pitchers of sangría appeared at lots of parties in the '60s, and we ran many recipes for it. Macerating the fruit in a sugar syrup first makes this one particularly flavorful.

A colorful and sophisticated summer drink.

To get the most juice out of lemons, be sure they're at room temperature when you squeeze them.

Bucks are long drinks made with liquor and ginger ale. In recent years, they have declined in popularity, but bucks are excellent hot-weather drinks. Like a collins, a buck may be made with a variety of liquors. Originally, only gin was used, but this recipe may be followed when making any buck. Simply substitute the liquor of your choice.

Add a little fizz by substituting sparkling water or club soda for the two cups of water. Or make a sophisticated brunch beverage by using Champagne or sparkling wine.