Yes, I know it's not technically summer anymore, but here in San Francisco we are entering our loveliest months. After the cold fog of June and July, late August brings clear sunny days and perfect temperatures. It will never be warm enough to swim in the Pacific Ocean. But still, it's a good time to be in the City by the Bay.

The question on everyone's lips, being as we are, highly educated and socially aware, is of course, what is the best summer beverage? There are several contestants in this category. But all adhere to these basic rules:

Refreshment is paramount in the perfect cocktail.
The beverage must achieve the perfect balance between sweet and sour.
And it should be served extremely cold.

Top of the bunch for me is the Cosmopolitan, a sassy blend of vodka, triple sec, lime juice, and cranberry juice. Two parts each of cranberry juice and vodka to one part each of lime juice and triple sec. Shake over ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a wedge of fresh lime. It occurs to me that I have never seen triple sec in Ireland, but perhaps that is because I didn't discover its wondrous uses until I moved to the States. But if you have difficulty procuring this orange-flavored liqueur, both Cointreau and Grand Marnier can serve as higher-end substitutes. The elegance of the Cosmo derives almost wholly from the glass in which it is served; the martini glass evokes old world elegance and class. But the Cosmopolitan is not as serious and grown-up a drink as a martini, which is really just a shot of pure alcohol in a fancy dress.

The Margarita is next on my list. One part each triple sec and lime juice, to two parts each tequila and sweet and sour mix (or Margarita mix). This delicious drink can be blended with ice or served on the rocks. I prefer on the rocks; the blended version gets watery fast, but if you are very thirsty and intend to drink it quickly, the blended margarita is an icy delight. The above recipe might be a little strong for some. Decrease the proportion of tequila if this is the case. There is nothing like a pitcher of Margs with friends on a sunny patio with some chips and salsa. Makes you want to move to Mexico.

Another tasty summer treat is the Tom Collins. This is simply gin and Collins mix, which is similar to Margarita mix. In fact, it may be the very same, just marketed differently. The drink is topped off with a dash of 7UP or white lemonade. While I like gin and tonic, the quinine in the tonic tastes bitter after a couple of drinks. This cocktail refreshes with a cool citrusy flavor. Read J.D. Salinger's novella, Raise High the Roof Beam Carpenters to understand how refreshing a Tom Collins is. The story follows a group of wedding guests on a sweltering day in New York City, who talk about stopping for a pitcher of Tom Collins. After reading this story I had to go out and try one. It didn't disappoint.

A good Chardonnay is my next pick for hot weather beverage. I avoided white wine for years, believing red was more tasty or elegant or something. Then my boyfriend started opening a bottle of cold California Chardonnay on warm evenings when we came home from work. Sitting at the table, in the late afternoon light reflecting off the Pacific Ocean, talking about our day, I learned to appreciate the crisp buttery taste of a good white wine. I have tried Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and other white wines, but Chardonnay remains my favorite.

Sometimes nothing beats a cold beer on a hot day, especially when sitting outside, and especially after some exertion. Happening upon a little inn after a bike ride for example, or choosing an outside table at a bar after a grueling morning of shopping. Light or amber beer in a bottle so cold that it hurts to pick it up is my favorite, but a pint of Coldflow Guinness is also exceptional.

I will certainly spend the coming month or two enjoying many warm days and cool libations. But even if summer has ended for this year in Ireland, you can always turn up the heat, put on some reggae, and wear a bikini around the house while sipping a luscious tipple. Just make sure the curtains are drawn. Cheers!