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.

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.

Lemons have been cultivated on Capri for as long as anyone can remember. And as long as there have been lemons on Capri, there has been the lemon liquer known as Lemoncello. The bright yellow liquid tastes like sunshine in a glass, albeit with a kick. Most often sipped as a post-prandial digestif, it can also be savored as a late afternoon treat.

Fizzes, which have been popular drinks in the late morning and afternoon, are usually served in highball glasses. They are made from liquor, citrus juices, and sugar, shaken with ice. The mixture is strained into glasses, which are then filled with club soda or other carbonated drink, including champagne. Egg, both yolk and white, is used in some fizzes.