Most of us forget about seasonal produce as the chill of winter arrives, but for bartenders it's peak season, as they prepare for the bounty of blood oranges, lemons, and grapefruit to arrive from California and south of the Mexican border. Great citrus can do much more than dress up an Old Fashioned or add zing to a Whiskey Sour. The bright acidity of citrus can balance the peat of an Islay malt or a sweet bourbon when pressed into service.Check out these bright and vibrant whisky cocktails made with lemon, yuzu, and more citrus fruits.

Ferdinand the Bull

Grilled blood orange juice imparts richness to this smoked cocktail, which also includes bourbon, amaro, and cherry liqueur.

Get the Recipe: Ferdinand the Bull

Knock Out

Ginger liqueur and cinnamon syrup add texture and spice, while the fresh-squeezed lemon juice brings out the brightness of blended Irish whiskey.

Get the Recipe: Knock Out

The Corner Store

Australian grain whisky, cherry syrup, and two kinds of citrus create a dead ringer of an old school black cherry soda.

Get the Recipe: The Corner Store

Burning History

Japanese whisky, Islay single malt, ginger syrup, and yuzu feature in this citrus-fueled twist on a Penicillin.

Get the Recipe: Burning History

How to Find the Best Citrus Fruits

The best fruit makes for the best cocktails. Here's what to look for, according to Allie Wainer, executive vice president and chief customer officer for Sid Wainer & Son, a distributor of specialty produce and foods.Blood OrangesPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: December to mid-AprilLook for firm with no soft spots and has a vibrant orange peel with a red tint.ClementinesPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: November to AprilLook for very bright orange fruit that has some give to the outer skin but not soft enough to puncture the peel.GrapefruitPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: January to early summerLook for star ruby grapefruit with firm yellow skin that has a pink tint.KumquatsPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: November to MarchLook for very vibrant orange fruit that's firm but has a little give.Lemons Peak area: CaliforniaPeak season: November to AprilLook for bright yellow fruit with firm skin.LimesPeak area: MexicoPeak season: May and June, November and DecemberLook for dark green fruit with firm skin and no decay.PomelosPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: November to AprilLook for firm, feels heavy for its size, and has a vibrant green skin with a healthy pink flesh and nice white rind inside.YuzuPeak area: CaliforniaPeak season: June through August, November and DecemberLook for fruit with brilliant golden skin.