Awaken the Seasonal Spirits with These Fall Cocktail Recipes

Autumn is upon us and the change of season has us shifting away from the tropical drinks of summer to something a bit more dark, moody, and maybe even a little spooky. But fall cocktail recipes don’t all have to be mulled cider and whiskey (though, if you’re offering, we wouldn’t say no). We think agave spirits like mezcal and tequila are perfect for the season. Think of a great cocktail built on smoky mezcal or aged, oaky tequila – what could be more ideal for sipping on a crisp night while the fire crackles? Below, we’re sharing some recipes to get you started

The Forza

This fall cocktail recipe is so simple – just two ingredients and a garnish, stirred – but the result is complex, rich, and perfect for the season. If you’re a fan of negronis, you’ll feel right at home here. (Recipe courtesy of Madre Mezcal.) 

1 part Averna (or your preferred amaro; we’ve tried it with Ramazzotti and Cynar to different but good results)
1 part Madre Mezcal

Stir ingredients together over ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a blood orange. (Lighting a sprig of eucalyptus on fire not actually necessary!)

Pumpkin ‘Margarita’

For an indulgent sip, you cannot beat this pie-like creation. A little bit of actual pumpkin purée gives the drink thickness, without being smoothie-like. Código rests its tequila in French oak barrels previously used for Napa Valley Cabernet (most brands use American oak barrels) and the reposado delivers strong vanilla and toasty caramel notes that play well with the maple in this fall cocktail recipe. (Recipe courtesy of Código 1530.)

2 ounces Código 1530 Reposado Tequila
1 ounce pumpkin purée
1 ounce maple syrup
.5 ounce lemon juice

Shake all ingredients together with ice until fully combined. Strain into a rocks glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and dried orange slice.

Apple Gin and Tonic

Transition your garden party G&T into the cooler seasons with this simple signature drink. Scapegrace Black Gin gives the highball its distinctive color – it starts out a spooky, inky black and then fades to deep plum. A crisp slice of apple adds autumnal aromatics. (Recipe courtesy of Scapegrace Distillery.) 

1 2/3 oz Scapegrace Black Gin
5 oz tonic water
Slice of green apple

Fill a tall glass with ice. Add gin, top with tonic water, and garnish with apple slice. Serve immediately to observe color change.

Peanut Butter Spiked Cider

Remember putting peanut butter on apple slices as a kid? This cozy fall and winter sip is like an adult take on that. (Recipe courtesy of Skrewball Whiskey.) 

4 oz hot apple cider
1 1/2 oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
1 cinnamon stick (garnish)
1 star anise pod (garnish)

In a heat-safe cup or mug, combine ingredients. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise pod.

The Smoky Mountain

Whiskey, smoky mezcal, and nutty orgeat and amaretto all play together in this golden leaf-hued libation. Plus nothing says ‘fall vibes’ like finishing with a shower of freshly grated nutmeg. (Recipe courtesy of Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey) 

1 1/2 oz Stranahan’s Original Colorado Whiskey
1/2 oz Mezcal
3/4 oz orgeat syrup
1/2 oz amaretto
3/4 fresh lemon juice
1 dash Angostura bitters
Grated nutmeg to taste

RELATED: A Mezcal Expert Tells Us How to Shop for Sustainable, Artisan Bottles

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