Autumn Imbibements

While the weather we've been having certainly doesn't feel very fall-esque, we're ready to confirm the change of seasons with some decidedly fall beverages. Filled with richer flavors and bolder, spicier notes, these autumn refreshments will give you a reason to get that raking done and help calm your nerves during Vikings games.

Spiked Apple Pie Punch
Ingredients
• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 cups white sugar
• 8 cinnamon sticks
• 1 bottle 190 proof grain alcohol (750 ml)
Directions
1. In a large pot, combine juice, cidar, sugar and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. When cool, stir in grain alcohol.
3. Transfer to large serving dish and let guests ladle into cups. Garnish with additional cinnamon sticks or apple slices, if desired.

Pear Brandy Sidecar

Ingredients
• 1 shot (1.5 oz.) pear brandy
• 1/2 oz. lemon juice
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup
• 1 oz. pear nectar
• Ice
Directions
1. Pour the brandy, lemon juice, pear nectar, and syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice. Cover, and shake until the outside of the shaker has frosted.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Serves one.

Cranberry Martini

Ingredients
• 1 shot (1.5 oz.) vodka
• 1/2 oz. orange liqueur
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• 2 shots (3 oz.) cranberry juice
• 1 cups ice
• Cranberries (optional)
Directions
1. Combine vodka, orange liqueur, vermouth, cranberry juice and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to chill.
2. Pour into martini glasses and serve. Garnish with a few cranberries, if desired. Serves two.

Other great options for fall drinks include hot mulled wine, a fall spiced sangria with cranberries and oranges, a Bailey's Caramel Appletini, or anything with ginger (Ginger Ale, Canton Ginger Liqueur, etc.). 

Happy Fall!