As the leaves change and the crisp air rolls in, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a cocktail that reflects the flavors of the season. Fall 2024 is the bringing some exciting new trends in the world of cocktails, and you won’t want to miss these must-try drinks. From creative twists on classics to fresh ingredients and unexpected pairings, this fall’s cocktail trends are as vibrant as the season itself. Let’s dive into what’s shaking up the bar scene.
1. Smoked Cocktails
There’s nothing quite like the scent of a campfire in the fall, and smoked cocktails bring that rustic charm right into your glass. This trend is all about adding depth and warmth to classic cocktails by infusing them with smoke. Whether it’s bourbon-based Old Fashioneds or smoky Mezcal Negronis, bartenders are using wood chips, herbs, and even smoked fruit garnishes to craft drinks that evoke autumn nights by the fire.
Try it at home: Make a Smoked Whiskey Sour using applewood chips for that ultimate fall aroma.
2. Spiced & Herbal Infusions
Fall flavors like cinnamon, clove, star anise, and allspice are making their way into cocktails in the form of syrups, bitters, and infusions. Herbal additions like rosemary, thyme, and sage are also taking center stage, providing a savory balance to sweet and fruity ingredients. Think Spicy Margaritas or Gin cocktails laced with rosemary simple syrup for a truly autumnal vibe.
Must-try cocktail: The Spiced Pear Mule - A Moscow Mule twist with pear puree, ginger beer, cinnamon, and clove.
3. Pumpkin Spice Everything
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for lattes anymore! Bartenders are getting creative with the fall favorite, incorporating pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice syrups, and even roasted pumpkin into their cocktail menus. Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martinis, Pumpkin Old Fashioneds, and spiked pumpkin chai are just a few examples of how this beloved fall flavor is making its mark in mixology.
DIY Tip: Add a spoonful of pumpkin puree to a classic White Russian for a creamy, seasonal treat.
4. Hard Ciders & Apple Cocktails
Apples are the quintessential fall fruit, and this year, bartenders are embracing the variety and versatility of apples in their creations. Hard ciders, apple brandies, and even fresh apple juices are being used to craft everything from spiked cider to apple margaritas. This trend pairs well with the farm-to-table movement, as many bars are sourcing local apple varieties to give their drinks a fresh, homegrown touch.
Cocktail to try: The “Caramel Apple Martini” - apple vodka, caramel syrup, and a touch of lemon juice for balance. Garnish with a caramel-dipped apple slice.
5. Warm Cocktails for Cool Nights
As the temperatures dip, warm cocktails are making a comeback. Hot Toddies, mulled wines, and spiked ciders are timeless fall classics, but this season they’re getting a fresh spin. Expect to see spiked hot chocolate with flavored liqueurs, boozy teas with fall spices, and even hot buttered rum with unexpected flavor profiles like maple or salted caramel.
Sip-worthy Idea: Try a “Maple Bourbon Hot Toddy” with bourbon, maple syrup, lemon, and a cinnamon stitch for garnish.
6. Sustainable & Local Ingredients
Sustainability is a major theme this fall, with many bars focusing on reducing waste and utilizing local, seasonal ingredients. Bartenders are getting creative with scraps and leftovers, turning apple peels into garnishes, using herb stems for infusions, or creating syrups from overripe fruit. This eco-conscious approach not only reduces waste but also adds a unique and thoughtful touch to each cocktail.
Sustainable Twist: Craft a zero-waste cocktail by using leftover apple cores and peels to infuse your favorite spirit.
7. Low-ABV & Non-Alcoholic Options
Not every fall cocktail has to be boozy. The low-ABV and non-alcoholic trend continues to rise, with creative cocktails that focus on flavor rather than buzz. Expect to see mocktails featuring seasonal fruits like pears and cranberries, herbal teas, and spices. Low-alcohol spritzers and shandies are also in demand, perfect for sipping throughout a cozy fall evening.
Mocktail Magic: The “Cranberry Sage Sparkler” - cranberry juice, soda water, and a sage garnish for a refreshing autumn drink.
Fall 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting season for cocktail lovers. From smoked infusions to the resurgence of warm drinks, the trends are all about capturing the essence of autumn in a glass. Whether you’re sipping on a pumpkin spice creation or enjoying a sustainable apple cocktail, these seasonal drinks are sure to keep you warm and in the spirit of the season.
Cheers to fall and happy sipping!
If you missed any of our past posts, you can read them here, and don’t forget to look out for next week's blog post; Behind the Scenes: Why we do the Work for You.
Thanks for reading, we appreciate you!! Cheers!