I have been longing for something to get me in the fall mood. It’s my absolute favorite time of the year. And when pumpkins and crisp air aren’t enough, bring on the cocktails! So I set off on a mission to find fall-inspired drinks and boy, was it fun.
First Stop: Mussel Bar – Whether you’re interested in a fall happy hour or just need a small pick-me-up, the cocktails at Mussel Bar do the trick. My goal was to enjoy the outdoor seating and people watching so I opted for a Kentucky Mule. They have a variety of whiskeys and bourbons —so pick your fav and catch the fall vibes!
Second Stop: La Canela – Looking for a true Purivian flare? I was super excited for their take on a Whiskey Sour as they make all the sour mixes in-house! My friend went for a classic passion marg! The cute outdoor seating and my fall drink really had me in the fall spirits. Cheers!
Final Stop: Summer House – I know I know…the name doesn’t scream FALL but they have a great outdoor scene for this time of year and they are introducing a new fall cocktail menu. This place has such a fun vibe. I got a chance to try some of what the bartenders are working on and you are in for some delicious treats. I had a bourbon cinnamon cocktail and it reminded me of mom’s homemade apple pie— ask for it when you go! I also tried the “Black Betty” and can’t decide which is my favorite.
Not quite ready to be out and about? I totally understand! Don’t let that stop you from experiencing yummy fall drinks and bringing the bar vibe home with cute glassware. I made a stop to Anthropologie— these can be cute for any type of cocktail.
The drinks I tried are all easy to make with simple ingredients you have at home. Try these fun recipes tonight:
KENTUCKY MULE:
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• Ginger beer, to top
• Garnish: mint sprig
Steps:
1. Add the bourbon and lime juice to a Moscow Mule mug or a highball glass.
2. Fill the mug or glass with ice and top with ginger beer.
3. Add mint sprig for garnish.
WHISKEY SOUR:
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces bourbon
• ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
• ¾ ounce simple syrup
• ½ orange wheel (for serving)
Steps:
1. Combine bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake until the outside of the shaker is very cold, about 20 seconds.
2. Strain the cocktail into an old-fashioned or rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange wheel and cherry.
BOURBON APPLE CIDER:
Ingredients:
• Apple cider
• Bourbon
• Lemon juice
• Ginger beer or ginger ale
• Apple slice, thyme sprig and cinnamon stick for garnish
Steps:
1. To mix up this creation you’ll just fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the cider, bourbon and lemon juice. Shake and strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.
2. Strain the cocktail into an old-fashioned or rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange wheel and cherry.
Cheers to creating fall vibes!
Samantha E is a creative Washingtonian consultant with a keen eye for details. After growing up in Arkansas she ventured to North Carolina where she earned her bachelor’s in business administration from Bennett College for Women. Samantha then moved to the district to pursue her professional career in business development, she started the Samantha E brand and blog as a creative outlet along the way. She has an extensive background in visual imagery and brand story consulting with a passion for helping others show up in the most visionary way. Samantha E’s value lies in the ability to collaborate with clients to create a breathtaking story for people and brands. She has worked in retail and the personal styling world for major brands like Banana Republic, Gap and Trunk Club. When she is not creating content over on Samantha E you’ll find her on IG at S.E.COLE, eating her way through different cities, exploring the outdoors and cooking yummy meals at home.
