"3. A real mint julep. I have a recipe Walker Percy
wrote down, the secret ingredient of which is a dusting of fresh
nutmeg. Seriously, this is a major sit-down-on-the-front-porch summer
drink, and I can't recommend it highly enough, provided you use lots of
mint, really good Bourbon, and pack the ice in pretty hard.
Unfortunately, it's liquid hangover for me these days. Still, the
occasion will present itself about once a year, usually in a situation
involving a rocking chair, and I'll through caution to the wind. That's
why the good Lord made Advil."
Anything Walker Percy would recommend is alright by me.
See the full list here.
Feel free to add your personal favorite in the comments section.
I, for one, disagree with his beer pronouncement. I'm a big fan of pale ales in the summer. I recommend this fine offering from Mad River Brewing Company. When in the South, Sweetwater 420 is heavenly.
Anyone who knows me well knows that I will drink a bourbon and coke with lime anytime, anywhere, and summer is no exception. Sublime.
I would agree with Dreher that Salty Dog's are consistently underrated. If you dig grapefruit, it's a must.
Addendum: While we're on the subject, this is hilarious. (Disregard the questionable picture of the scantily clad Asian chick in the top left corner.)