Game Day Sips: Tailgate-Ready Cocktails from Bourbon & Bubbles to Cheer On Your Favorite South Carolina Teams

Fall in the South is synonymous with college football, and nothing complements the excitement of game day better than a lively tailgate party. Whether you’re rooting for Clemson, Carolina, or the local Presbyterian College Blue Hose, the tradition of tailgating brings fans together in a celebration of school spirit, camaraderie, and of course, delicious food and drink.

Adele Alducin, co-owner of Bourbon & Bubbles in Laurens, is no stranger to crafting unique experiences for her clients. Known for her expertise in creating custom cocktails for special events, Adele has taken the art of tailgating to the next level with a trio of cocktails inspired by South Carolina’s favorite college teams. These handcrafted cocktails, including “The Scotty,” “Tiger Slammer,” and “Cocky Rita,” are designed to elevate your game day experience, whether you’re cheering from the stands or enjoying the game from the comfort of your home.

The Scotty

Inspired by Presbyterian College’s Blue Hose, “The Scotty” is a refreshing and sophisticated cocktail that pays homage to the college’s proud Scottish heritage. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces of Monkey Shoulder Scotch
• 2 to 3 ounces of chilled ginger ale
• 2 to 3 ounces of chilled club soda
• Lemon twist for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour 2 ounces of Monkey Shoulder Scotch over the ice.
3. Top the glass with equal amounts of chilled ginger ale and club soda.
4. Stir the contents of the glass well.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.
6. Serve and enjoy!

This cocktail’s blend of scotch, ginger ale, and club soda creates a balanced and refreshing drink that’s perfect for toasting a Blue Hose victory.

Tiger Slammer

Clemson fans can energize their tailgates with the vibrant and tropical “Tiger Slammer,” a cocktail that’s as bold as the Tigers themselves.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup Wheatly Vodka
• ½ cup Bacardi White Rum
• ½ cup Disaronno Amaretto
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1.5 cups orange juice
• Maraschino cherries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, add ice and then the three liquors and two juices.
2. Stir to dilute slightly from the melting ice.
3. Fill red solo cups or cocktail glasses with ice and put two to three cherries in each glass.
4. Fill with the Tiger Slammer drink and enjoy the game!

Cocky Rita

For Gamecock fans, the “Cocky Rita” is a bold, citrusy cocktail that’s perfect for toasting South Carolina’s spirited performances on the field.

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 whole limes)
• 1/8 cup sugar
• 3/8 cup water
• 1/2 cup 100% Lunazul agave silver tequila
• 1/4 cup Cointreau
• 1 cup fresh blood orange juice (about 8 medium blood oranges)
• A lime half for moistening the glass rims
• Coarse salt or sugar (Kosher)
• 6 cups ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, stir together the lime juice, sugar, and water until the sugar has dissolved. Add the tequila, Cointreau, and blood orange juice. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour.
2. Moisten the rims of three 6-ounce martini glasses with the cut side of a lime half. Spread coarse salt or sugar on a small plate and press the rims of the glasses until coated.
3. Fill a cocktail shaker about 3/4 full of ice and measure in 1 1/2 cups of the margarita for 3 drinks. Cover and shake for about 15 seconds to thoroughly chill the mixture. Strain into the glasses.
4. Dress the glasses with a slice of blood orange and a slice of lime, and enjoy your Cocky Rita while rooting for the Gamecocks!

Tailgating Beyond the Cocktails

Tailgating is more than just drinks; it’s an experience that brings fans together. Whether you’re grilling up some ribs, playing cornhole, or singing fight songs, these cocktails created by Bourbon & Bubbles are the perfect addition to your tailgate spread. They not only reflect the unique spirit of each team but also offer a taste of local flavor that celebrates South Carolina’s rich football culture.

“Creating cocktails that capture the essence of our local teams is something I’m passionate about,” says Adele Alducin. “There’s a special joy in helping clients make their events memorable, and game days are no exception.”

For those looking to add a personalized touch to their next gathering, Adele and the team at Bourbon & Bubbles offer custom cocktail consultations, ensuring your event is as unique and enjoyable as possible. Learn more about their offerings and explore the world of expertly crafted cocktails at bourbonandbubbles.com.

As you gear up for another thrilling season of college football, be sure to bring a little extra flair to your tailgate with these creative concoctions. After all, the only thing better than a big win is sharing the excitement with friends, family, and a perfectly crafted cocktail in hand.