Fall is arguably the most flavorful of all the seasons. With it come requests for bartenders to craft a number of different concoctions for customers looking to take advantage of the season’s various spices and flavors. Fall flavored cocktails and drinks can be some of the most popular orders that guests will request this season. Remember, as the leaves change, so do people's tastes!
No matter the season, there is an endless amount of cocktail recipes that bartenders are expected to know. When autumn hits and the cooler weather brings more customers inside the bar or restaurant, keeping them happy is always vital. Pumpkin spice rules coffee and beer in the fall, so don't be surprised when guests want to add it to their cocktails. Whether you’re an experienced bartender or just getting started, be prepared for the array of cocktail orders coming your way during the fall season.
Here’s a brief cocktail guide utilizing some of fall’s favorite flavors:
Apple
When it comes to autumn drinks, apple cider is king. While pairing cider with donuts is tradition, pairing it with popular cocktails takes it to a whole new level.
Embrace the cold weather and warm up with an Apple Cider Hot Toddy. Use the normal ingredients for the typical Hot Toddy (whiskey or brandy, lemon juice, honey, and hot water), and simply add apple cider and a touch of cinnamon.
Margaritas aren’t just a refreshing summer drink. Take an Apple Cider Margarita, for instance. Tequila, Grand Marnier, and apple cider combine to make the ideal fall cocktail creation. Don’t forget to substitute cinnamon sugar for salt on the rim.
The traditional Moscow Mule has seen a resurgence as of late, and the Apple Cider Moscow Mule takes full advantage. Mix apple cider with ginger beer and vodka for a fall take on an old classic.
Pumpkin
What’s fall without pumpkin spice? The popular flavor is used in more than just your morning latté, however.
Make a Pumpkin Martini using vanilla vodka, cream liqueur, and pumpkin spice or syrup for a fancy fall beverage that will keep bar patrons coming back for more.
Is a guest looking for something even sweeter? Build a Pumpkin Spice White Russian using vodka, coffee liqueur, cream and of course, pumpkin spice. Go ahead and top it with whipped cream if you’d like!
Pear
Pears are like the middle child when it comes to fall flavoring, but they shouldn’t be forgotten. In fact, they are the centerpiece of some magnificent cocktails.
The Vanilla, Pear & Vodka Cocktail is a straight forward recipe and is simply tantalizing. Pear juice combined with vanilla bean seeds and vodka is perfect for sipping while gazing at the fall foliage outside.
Orange juice mimosas are a popular brunch cocktail, so why not change it up for the fall with a Pear Mimosa at brunch. Sweet pear nectar and champagne make a cocktail suitable for starting a fall weekend off right.
Is Your Bar Equipment Suited to Handle High Volumes of These Fall Cocktails?
It’s important for bartenders to have seasonal ingredients within arm’s reach. The Tobin Ellis Signature Cocktail Station is designed with bartenders in mind. It allows for zero-step bartending, a comfortable workspace, and is a profit-making machine for high volume operations.
Learn more about the Tobin Ellis Signature Cocktail Station from the bartenders who use it each and ever night. Watch this testimonial video and see why bar operators call this cocktail station a "Bartender's Dream."
