Embrace the Season: Autumnal Alcohol Drinks to Warm Your Spirit
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, autumn arrives with its unique charm, and so do its signature drinks. This season, swap your summer cocktails for these warm, spiced, and comforting autumnal alcohol drinks that capture the essence of fall.
Warm Spirits: Mulled Wine and Cider
Mulled wine and cider are classic autumnal drinks that have been warming hearts and souls for centuries. Both are made by heating wine or cider with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, often with the addition of sweetener and citrus.
For mulled wine, choose a full-bodied red wine with good acidity, such as a Tempranillo or a Syrah. For cider, opt for a dry or off-dry variety to balance the sweetness of the spices. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- 1 bottle (750ml) of red wine or cider
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 apple, sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
Combine all ingredients in a large pot, heat over medium heat until steaming, but do not let it boil. Serve warm in mugs, garnished with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
Irish Coffee: A Cozy Classic
This iconic drink is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly autumn evening. Irish coffee is made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with thick cream. The key to a perfect Irish coffee is the layering of the cream on top of the coffee and whiskey mixture.
To make Irish coffee, brew strong coffee and stir in a spoonful of sugar until dissolved. Add Irish whiskey to the coffee, then pour the mixture into a heatproof glass. Slowly pour lightly whipped cream over the back of a spoon held just above the coffee's surface to create a layer on top.
Applejack: A Forgotten Fall Favorite
Applejack, a spirit made from fermented and freeze-distilled apples, was once a staple in American homes. Although it's less common today, it's worth seeking out for its unique autumnal flavor. Mix it with apple cider, a squeeze of lemon, and a dash of bitters for a classic fall cocktail.
Here's a recipe for an Applejack Smash:
- 2 oz applejack
- 4 oz apple cider
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters
- Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish
Combine applejack, apple cider, lemon juice, and bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an apple slice and a cinnamon stick.
Whiskey Highball: The Perfect Balance
The highball is a simple yet elegant cocktail that lets the whiskey shine. It's made with just two ingredients: whiskey and sparkling water, with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors. The highball is a refreshing change from heavier autumnal drinks, offering a crisp, clean taste that's perfect for fall days.
To make a whiskey highball, fill a highball glass with ice. Add 2 oz of your favorite whiskey and fill the glass with sparkling water. Squeeze in a wedge of lemon and garnish with a lemon twist.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives: Warm and Cozy
If you're looking to enjoy the flavors of autumn without the alcohol, there are plenty of warm, comforting non-alcoholic drinks to choose from. Spiced apple cider, chai lattes, and hot chocolate are all excellent choices. For a unique twist, try a turmeric golden milk: heat milk (dairy or plant-based) with turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and black pepper, then sweeten with honey or maple syrup.
Here's a simple recipe for turmeric golden milk:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (to taste)
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until steaming. Pour into mugs and enjoy.
