When it comes to creating fall cocktails, as strange as it sounds, I often start by first picturing the warm colors of the season. The flaming reds, burnt oranges and deep yellows of New England’s changing leaves suggest apples, pears, pumpkins, cranberries, rhubarb and spices to me. Those ingredients come together to make what I like to call “cozy cocktails” that will see you through to Thanksgiving at the very least.

As the weather gets colder, I like to add layers (just as you would with clothing) and complexity to my drinks. The easiest way to do this is to start with a mature spirit, like spiced rum or whiskey, that already has plenty of rich flavor. (Gin can work too, but you have to play up its spicy side.) You can also take an unaged spirit and pair it with a taste of autumn, like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, vanilla or ginger. And if you have some time, you can even infuse the liquor with these spices, or with fresh seasonal fruit.

But just because there’s a nip in the air doesn’t mean you can’t use citrus fruits or fresh juices in your creations. I find that flavorful Meyer lemon, blood orange and tangerine work really well this time of year. Pomegranate juice is another fall favorite, and the fruit’s seeds are a great garnish that can make a clear or white drink immediately festive. Happy mixing!

Apples & Pears

Contributed by: Charlotte Voisey

INGREDIENTS:

• 1.5 oz Stolichnaya Gala Applik Vodka
• 1.5 oz Pear juice
• .75 oz Vanilla-Nutmeg Syrup*
• .5 oz Fresh lime juice
• 5 Dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 oz Hard cider
• Garnish: Apple slice and grated nutmeg
• Glass: Double old fashioned

You can find the full article here at Liquor.com