This really isn’t a typical January cocktail, especially with most of the country enduring one of the coldest winters on record.

But here in San Diego, the weather’s great. Highs have been in the 70s and even 80s during the last couple of weeks (let the folks in Denver chew on that), so how about something refreshing?

This is pretty simple, yet delicious. It has the added bonus of sipping on something sweet without looking like a chick.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tuaca
• Club soda
• Sugar packets
• Lemons

Tuaca’s one of those liqueurs that’s taken for granted. It’s used in a ton of drinks with other alcohols — the orange and vanilla flavors have endless possibilities. But it’s got a great taste all on its own.

One of my friends first made this for me after she went to a Tuaca event downtown (I was left working behind the bar while everyone else went .. not bitter here at all). It’s perfect on a warm day.

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice
2. Pour in 1 ½ to 2 oz. of Tuaca (depending on how strong you want it … I go with 2 oz.)
3. Fill nearly to the top with club soda
4. Drop in 1 or 2 packets of sugar (again, to taste … 1 is usually good for me, sometimes 1 ½)
5. Squeeze in the juice from half a lemon
6. Toss a couple of times (or lightly shake or stir — it’s not a martini, so there’s no need to go nuts. I actually like the drink best when it’s not completely blended together.)
7. Garnish with a lemon wedge

Pretty simple, right?

If you want to go a little crazy, you could muddle the sugar, some club soda and lemon wedges before pouring in the Tuaca and rest of the club soda.

But keeping with the laid back San Diego winter, I’ll take the easy way out. And mmm … hits the spot.