Amber Dias dabbles with some rainy-day cocktails, with a kick.

As clouds turn grey and rain taps gently on the windowpanes, the mood has shifted, inviting something warm, indulgent, and perhaps a little spicy. The season for tropical flavours is behind us, as seasonal fruits and bold spices stirred into moody, soul-soothing concoctions step up to the plate.

Monsoon Mania

Once reserved for tea and pakoras, the rainy weather now offers the perfect opportunity to cosy up with friends and some fun ‘n’ spicy cocktails. The seasonal specials, according to mixologists, use a variety of seasonal fruits and herbs that offer a refreshing and cooling experience amidst the humidity. Perfect for uplifting the spirits on a gloomy, rainy day.

Bars are noticing strong demand. ‘Planet Fluid’s’ “Monsoon Mixology” feature highlights how Goa establishments are hosting monsoon‑themed cocktail nights and tastings to capitalise on local produce and seasonal enthusiasm. Rising health consciousness and being adventurous with flavours also play into this trend. Indian bartenders are pushing low-sugar, spice-forward drinks that feel seasonally appropriate rather than indulgently tropical.

Rainy-Day Flavours

Monsoon cocktails thrive on contrast: Warming spices meet citrus, smoky spirits play off fruity sourness. Here are some standout combinations:

Spiced Masala Chai + Dark Rum or Whisky

A comforting twist on the classic chai, this spiced blend of cardamom, clove, cinnamon, ginger, and star anise is best enjoyed piping hot in a ceramic mug, perfect for rainy-day indulgence. For those craving something stronger, the Masala Chai Chai-tini offers a bold upgrade. Made with chai-infused vodka or rum, it brings together the warmth of black tea and aromatic spices for a cocktail that’s as cosy as a monsoon evening.

Hot/ Charente Toddy

A timeless favourite, updated with cognac or whisky, jasmine tea, honey, lime, star anise, and cinnamon.

Tamarind + Tequila

Tamarind’s sweet-tart tang makes it a natural fit for tequila-based cocktails like sours and margaritas. The Tamarind Margarita blends tamarind concentrate, tequila, triple sec, and a spiced rim for a drink that’s boldly refreshing and delicious. For something with added depth, the Tamarind Mezcal Mule brings together smoky mezcal, tamarind, and ginger ale for a rich, flavour-packed twist on the classic.

Rum Ginger Lime Fizz

A cooler riff for warm monsoon afternoons: Rum, fresh ginger, lime, soda; crisp, zesty, lightly sweet.

Cardamom Maple Whisky

Sour Bourbon or whisky gets a vibrant twist with the addition of fresh lime, a touch of maple syrup, and crushed cardamom pods; creating a rich, aromatic sour that’s both bold and refreshing.

Jamun‑based gin or vodka cocktails

Showcasing the deep, inky hues of monsoon berries, the Jamun-tini is a brooding gin cocktail that blends fresh jamun with gin, lime, cherries, and a touch of syrup for a strikingly seasonal sip.

Plum Ginger Cooler and Lychee‑Lavender Collins

Fresh seasonal fruits steal the spotlight in monsoon mixology, with vibrant combinations like plum, vodka, and ginger or lychee, gin, and lavender. A rotating cast of fruits and herbs defines the season, bringing variety, colour, and a burst of flavour to every glass.

Seasonal Eats

The monsoon is as much about snacks as it is about cocktails, but if you don’t know your munchies well, finding a drink that can stand up to the bold flavours can be tricky. Here are a few options to consider…

Pakoras and chutneys pair beautifully with warming chai or tangy whisky and maple cardamom sour. Grilled corn, with its charred sweetness, pairs beautifully with a smoky tamarind mezcal mule; earthy, rustic, and deeply satisfying. Spiced peanuts or masala cashews offer the perfect salty crunch to offset the bright citrus notes of a rum or gin fizz. Sushi and mezze may seem unexpected, but they find refreshingly bold partners in tamarind margaritas or plum-ginger coolers.

New trends suggest pairing craft cocktails with grilled or street-style food; it is fast becoming a defining theme of the summer-monsoon season.

Cheers!

This monsoon, immerse yourself in a sensory story. Think spice-laced, fruit-forward pours, thoughtfully served and paired with pakoras, grilled corn, or street-style bites. As the rain taps its steady rhythm outside, inside, India’s cocktail culture is dancing to a bold, flavourful new beat.

Serving Styles

• Ceramic/ Porcelain Mugs & Copper Tumblers
• Banana‑Leaf Wrapped Flasks
• Ice‑Sphere Lowballs
• Spice‑Rimmed Glassware
• Herb Sprig And Edible‑Flower Garnishes

Seasonal Selections

• Basil Sangria
• Mango Daiquiri
• Sun Deck
• Rain Dance
• Tequila Tea