Top 10 Autumn Cocktails

Contributed by Lisa Pratto, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

Autumn conjures up images of pumpkins, hayrides, raking leaves and apple picking.

The array of flavors available for autumn cocktails is staggering (and yummy). Try one of these top ten autumn cocktails the next time you want the taste of fall.

10. Appletini

The crisp taste of apples just screams autumn. Mix 2 parts of vodka and 1 part apple schnapps. Use caramel vodka instead and this becomes a Caramel-Appletini. Wonderful for combining the classic flavors of autumn, and a guaranteed hit at an adult Halloween cocktail event. Shaken or stirred?

9. Mulled Wine

There are many recipes for mulled wine. If you have never tried it before don’t be intimidated, it’s red wine that simmers on the stove with a variety or spices, citrus slices and sometimes brandy. Try a big bold red wine that will stand up to the infusion of flavors. Mulled wine is especially useful for taking the chill off after raking leaves, taking a long walk in the crisp Fall evening with your dog, or sitting in front of the TV enjoying fall football.

8. Cranberry Liqueur

Another classic autumn cocktail. Sip cranberry liqueur in a cordial glass while enjoying the sunset.

7. Ginger & Jack

There is something about ginger beer that feels like fall. Mix it with Jack Daniels for an interesting twist on Jack and Coke.

6. Brandy on the Rocks

Yes. You can drink Brandy any time of year that you want. Pour your brandy out of the makers bottle into an elegant crystal decanter to display on your bar. There are few drinks more elegant and old world to enjoy on an autumn evening.

5. Pomegranate Martini

This popular fruit that ripens in early fall is the perfect excuse to make a tasty pomegranate martini:

2 oz citrus vodka
1/2 ozfresh lemon juice
1/4 ozfresh pomegranate juice
1 oz simple syrup

Shake with ice and serve with a flamed orange peel.

4. Maple Cordial

Not just for pancakes, the flavor of maple is always associated with fall. From Vermont or Canada, maple liqueur can be sipped as a typical cordial or served on-the-rocks.

3. Cinnamon Apple Shooter

Hot and sour. Equal parts cinnamon schnapps and apple vodka mix to make this classic autumn cocktail. Serve in a shot glass.

2. Hot Toddy

Turn your hot tea with lemon into an autumn cocktail by adding 1 oz. of brandy, whiskey or rum. This is the cocktail that’s not a cocktail. More parts therapy than party, the hot toddy has been known to unchill frozen bones and weather-weary travelers. That and a warm cashmere throw will keep you cozy on a blustery day.

1. Pumpkin Spice Liqueur

The epitome of autumn cocktails: pumpkin liqueur. Sip from a cordial glass in front of an outdoor fireplace and relax.