It’s not officially summer for another week, but the watermelon season is already in full swing. While 13.5% Wine Bar may have been the winner of our Drinker’s Choice Award in the wine category this year, they’ve also got some creative cocktailians on staff, who have developed a sweet and simple sip that’s perfect for those hot, sultry afternoons.

Our Drink of the Week is The Gallager, which mixes fresh watermelon and basil with white whiskey, and is named in honor of comedian Leo Anthony Gallagher, widely known for smashing watermelons as part of his act. Check out the recipe below and let us know if you mix one up (send a pic!).

Note that when you order one at the bar, it will be made with Koval Millet white whiskey, which adds a mildly sweet, floral component, and doesn’t have the burn many of that type of liquor do, so search out your ingredients carefull, or just head to Hampden to get one from the pros.

The Gallager

1 oz. white whiskey
2 cubes watermelon
3 leaves basil
splash soda
splash sour mix

Muddle the watermelon and the basil in a rocks glass. Pour the whiskey over the mash, top with rocks, a splash of sour mix and a generous splash of soda. Shake gently.