The sun is shining, the barbeque is going, and, of course, you need something to sip on. Vancouver Island has fantastic breweries, cideries and more, with plenty to choose locally. We asked some residents of Saanich what their favourite refreshing backyard sipper is. Cheers to being inspired!

Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South

The Saanich South Sipper is a delightful and beautiful Spring refresher with an added vote of confidence for our B.C. bees.

• 2 lbs Saanich rhubarb;
• 1/2 cup honey;
• 4 cups water.

Coarsely chop rhubarb. Then add all ingredients to a pot and simmer over medium-low for 15-20 minutes. Cool before straining and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Add 1/4 cup syrup to your glass, and fill with plain soda water. Garnish with a stem of lavender, a piece of fresh mint or an umbrella!

Steve Hutchinson, president of Treehouse Media

I like a Mexican Mule (a Moscow mule but with tequila instead of vodka). I love it because it comes in a copper mug full of ice which gets incredibly frosty on a warm summer day. I like to use Fever-Tree Ginger Beer for the cocktail and a good quality Anejo tequila with only fresh limes.

Genna Purcell, owner, GigiB次元官网网址檚 Italian & Specialty Foods

One of my favourite things to do is sit outside, sip on a cool beverage, and enjoy time with my friends & family. There are many favorites but I absolutely love anything Victoria Cider Co. creates. Knowing that every time you enjoy one of their ciders, youB次元官网网址檙e supporting another local, small business feels good too!

WhatB次元官网网址檚 your favourite backyard sipper? Share with us at sonica.parmar@blackpress.ca to be featured on our social media.