Ask mixologist De’Javon “Dae“ Paynter what drink signals the start of summer and he doesn't hesitate.

"The Hugo Spritz”.

While Aperol Spritzes have dominated warm-weather menus for years, Mr Paynter believes the Hugo Spritz is having a major moment this summer.

"It's light, refreshing and versatile. You've got the mint, the citrus and the bubbles. Whether you're at a bar, on the beach or at a party, it works."

As someone who has spent much of the past few years travelling, he's noticed the cocktail popping up everywhere and says: "It's definitely made a comeback."

When he's off the clock, however, his personal drink of choice is something a little different: a classic daiquiri, but not just any daiquiri.

"If you make it with a green tea syrup, it's incredible. The citrus, the earthiness — it's light but still really robust. It's just chef's kiss."

While new cocktails and trends come and go, Mr Paynter believes Bermuda's signature drink still deserves a place in any summer conversation.

"You can't really beat a swizzle”, he says with a smile.

But he isn't opposed to giving the classic a modern twist.

"If you wanted to spice it up, do a swizzle with a champagne float. Or take it even further and clarify the swizzle, top it with champagne and serve it over crushed ice."

But, he gave a stark warning if you decide to make it at home.

"I promise you, you'll clear a bottle of swizzle and a bottle of champagne in a day. It's not a problem until you try to stand up. Sitting down, you’re super happy but when you stand up, you’ll know it was a better day than you realised.

When asked if the ingredients, the setting or the people you're drinking with make a great summer drink, Mr Paynter says: “It's all of the above. We all know that one person who walks into a room and it's just like, 'Ugh.' But when you have your people, good stories and a smooth cocktail, it's a win every time."

And, of course, the setting certainly helps.

"If you invite me to a beach with those people and those cocktails, even better."

As for what people are ordering right now, tequila continues to dominate.

"I've noticed people gravitating toward flavoured margaritas. Mango margaritas, strawberry and mint margaritas — those are definitely having a moment."

Interest in tequila itself has also grown.

"People want to know what tequilas you have. They're asking for different styles and expressions."

One guest even asked if he could make a daiquiri with tequila.

"I said, 'You mean a margarita?'" he laughs.

If he could only choose one drink for the rest of the summer, however, Mr Paynter circles right back to where he started.

"A Hugo Spritz. It checks all the boxes. I can have one at a party with friends, I can sit on the beach with a book, I can cook and drink it. It's light, refreshing and just makes you feel content."

When asked to describe the taste of a Bermuda summer in a single sip, Mr Paynter begins building a cocktail in his mind.

“If you were to muddle peach, strawberry, mint and a light squeeze of lime, then top it with champagne and a little ginger beer, finishing it with a spritz of saline solution, you'd get the taste of a Bermuda summer.

“The salt opens up every flavour. You get the natural fruit, the freshness of the mint, and the champagne brings everything together. And what's Bermuda without ginger beer? That flavour carries everything.”