As the crisp autumn air rolls in and the leaves begin to change, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about drinks that warm both the body and the soul. Dave Wallace, our Director of Beverage at The Charleston Place, has shared his thoughts on the best fall cocktails, offering his expertise on how to embrace the flavors of the season.
“For me, fall is all about soul-warming drinks with hints of spice and those seasonal comforts we crave,” says Wallace. Whether you’re curling up with a warm blanket or gathering around the fireplace with friends, the perfect autumn cocktail brings the warmth and coziness we all seek this time of year. For those looking to unwind after a day exploring Charleston, consider enjoying one of Wallace’s creations at the Thoroughbred Club, where our talented bartenders can craft these fall-inspired cocktails in an intimate, relaxing setting
Fall Flavors: Whiskey, Cider, and Beyond
Wallace is a fan of the classics when fall arrives, often turning to spiced peach or apple cider paired with whiskey. These drinks offer a delicate balance of sweetness and warmth, accented by hints of cinnamon and nutmeg that evoke the essence of autumn. A traditional mulled wine is another go-to for the season, bringing rich, fruity flavors elevated by warming spices. But he also suggests broadening the horizon of brown spirits to explore something different.
“I love to swap out whiskey with añejo tequila, cognac, or aged rum,” Wallace shares. These spirits bring a unique depth and complexity to cocktails while maintaining that familiar fall warmth. Whether you prefer a smooth añejo with its vanilla and caramel notes, a luxurious cognac, or a spiced aged rum, there are countless ways to craft a signature fall cocktail using these rich spirits. You can also elevate your dining experience by pairing one of Wallace’s recommended fall cocktails with a meal at Charleston Grill, where the menu is crafted to complement seasonal flavors with elegance and creativity.
Herbs & Spices: Elevating the Experience
For Wallace, creating a fall cocktail is as much about the presentation as it is the flavor. He recommends incorporating savory herbs like rosemary, sage, or thyme to bring an earthy, autumnal feel to the drink. These herbs can be incorporated directly into the mix or used as garnishes, giving off delightful aromas with each sip.
“Torched herbs can add another level of aromatics and richness,” Wallace explains. This technique adds a hint of smokiness and a burst of fragrance, making it a true sensory experience. To add a special touch to your fall cocktails, you can also rim your glassware with spices like cinnamon or allspice or finely grate nutmeg or other fall spices over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
Try It at Home: A Fall Cocktail Recipe
To bring Wallace’s fall cocktail philosophy to life, here’s a simple, soul-warming recipe inspired by his suggestions.
Spiced Cider Añejo Cocktail
Ingredients:
- 2 oz añejo tequila
- 4 oz spiced apple cider
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Dash of cinnamon
- Dash of nutmeg
- Rosemary sprig for garnish (torched, if desired)
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine the añejo tequila, spiced cider, and fresh lemon juice.
- Add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg, then shake well with ice.
- Strain into a glass over fresh ice or serve warm by gently heating the mixture beforehand.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant finish. Torch the rosemary for added aromatics and a hint of smokiness.
Wallace’s fall cocktail philosophy reminds us that it’s not just about the drink itself, but the whole experience. From cozy seasonal flavors to creative garnishes that enhance both taste and aroma, his approach captures the comfort and warmth that autumn brings. So this fall, let your cocktail reflect the season—warming, aromatic, and full of soul.
Cheers to the season ahead! 🍂
