The Best Cocktails To Try This Autumn
Now that Halloween is over, we find ourselves in the very midst of autumn. From spiced concoctions to comforting classics, check out these eight drinks that will keep you warm and snuggly in the cold weather.
The colourful shades and chilly air that autumn brings make it the perfect time of year to get a little bit experimental with cocktails. Whether you are hosting a cosy gathering or just want to unwind after a long day, capture the spirit of the season with these fun and easy-to-make cocktails.
This drink is perfect for those of you who love a good pumpkin spice coffee. A mix of pumpkin pureé or liqueur, a dash of vodka and a handful of seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg will leave you with a liquid version of your favourite dessert. You can add some crushed crackers on the rim, vanilla-infused vodka or Irish cream liqueur if you want to switch it up a bit.
Put a twist on a nostalgic childhood favourite. Make your favourite version of hot chocolate and add a generous splash of Kahlua, Baileys, peppermint schnapps, spiced rum… The combinations are endless for this sweet drink which adds an extra layer of comfort to a cold evening.
It’s a classic for a reason! Combine a fruity, full-bodied red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves and star anise to create this aromatic concoction. You can also play around with it quite a bit, by adding orange juice or peel, or some cognac or whiskey to make it a little stronger. Simmer it to perfection and you’re left with a soul-warming, fragrant drink.
This cocktail can be enjoyed throughout the entire year, but it’s particularly enjoyable in cooler weather. Mix together some bourbon or Scotch whiskey, bitters, sugar and an orange peel to create the timeless drink. It’s perfect for enjoying the autumnal ambience at a party.
Whether you’ve caught a nasty cold or you just want to warm up a bit, hot toddies are great for autumn and winter! A soothing blend of hot water over whiskey, honey, lemon juice and your choice of spices, this drink is a perfect remedy if you’re feeling a bit under the weather.
A rich and creamy eggnog is a popular choice for the holiday season, and can be enjoyed on its own or with a spirit of your choice. To make it, you need some homemade or store-bought eggnog, spiced, and a shot of spiced rum or bourbon.
Much like Mulled Wine, you can really experiment with this classic. Gently heat some apple cider with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg or some vanilla. You can also add a little apple brandy or rum, or even a bit of juice to make it smoother. The crisp sweetness of apples and warm spices are the perfect blend of autumn flavours.
Bourbon is a staple in many autumnal cocktails for a reason - it has a rich flavour and is great to enjoy near a cosy fireplace. There are so many options to choose from: you can make a sweet maple-bourbon drink, add a little pear syrup, add some apples or infuse some bourbon with cinnamon sticks, cardamom or cloves.
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