Stop relying solely on pumpkin spice for your autumn cocktails! While seasonal favorites like warm apple cider and cranberry juice have their place, it’s time to explore unexpected flavors that can elevate your fall drinks. Here are some surprising ingredients suggested by cocktail experts to help you refresh your autumn cocktail repertoire.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are making their way into fall cocktails in innovative ways, moving beyond the traditional Bloody Mary. Their mellow acidity complements various drink profiles, especially when using sun-dried tomatoes. Bartenders like Gianluca Passuello from BarChef New York emphasize their umami and earthy depth, which balances richer spirits.

Heirloom Garden Cocktail:

• .25 oz. celery bitters
• .25 oz. roasted chicory maraschino
• .50 oz. sweet vermouth
• .50 oz. Campari
• 1 oz. sun-dried tomato infused Bombay London Dry gin

Combine the ingredients and strain. Garnish creatively with dried heirloom tomato and fresh herbs.

2. Spices Beyond the Basics

Instead of the usual cinnamon and nutmeg, consider using spices like cumin, caraway, and cardamom, which add unique depth to your cocktails. The Charred Strawberry, for instance, reimagines the classic summer ingredient with an unexpected fall twist using these complex flavors.

Charred Strawberry Cocktail:

• .125 oz. Laphroaig Whiskey
• .25 oz. caraway maraschino
• .25 oz. TCS Bitters
• .25 oz. roasted chicory maraschino
• .25 oz. star anise syrup
• .50 oz. strawberry and elderberry bitters
• 1.50 oz. strawberry infused Bombay London Dry Gin

3. Beets

Beets’ sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color make them perfect for fall drinks. Infusing spirits with fresh beets or using beet juice can add significant character. Aidan Bowie from The Dead Rabbit has perfected a modern Old Fashioned using beets, showcasing their versatility.

4. Herbal Infusions

Herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme can impart complexity and unique aromas to cocktails. Bartenders like Gerardo Romero have incorporated local herbs into their drinks, enhancing both flavor and cultural identity.

Brujo Verde Cocktail:

• 2 oz. mezcal infused with hoja santa
• 1 oz. fresh lime juice
• ¾ oz. fresh orange juice
• ½ oz. agave syrup

Infuse the mezcal with hoja santa leaves for at least six hours before crafting this aromatic drink.

5. Mushrooms

Mushrooms can add a surprising umami twist to cocktails. The Butter Mushroom Old Fashioned from Handshake Speakeasy highlights the deep, rich flavor of buttered mushrooms infused in bourbon. This unique approach creates a creamy and smooth drink perfect for fall.

Gallura’s Harvest Cocktail:

• 1.25 oz Calvados
• .5 oz Lustau brandy
• .5 oz Joseph Cartron T Thé Noir Fumé
• .5 oz oloroso sherry
• 1 dropper MSG
• 5-6 dashes mushroom bitters

6. Specialty Teas

Unique teas offer a nuanced flavor profile; bartenders are opting for bold selections like Turkish tea. The cocktail Turkish Tea Manhattan combines complex flavors with infused vermouth, creating a delectable autumn drink.

Turkish Tea Manhattan:

• Maker’s Mark Bourbon
• Averna Amaro
• Black tea infused Cocchi di Torino
• Orange bitters

Explore these innovative ingredients to bring a new twist to your fall cocktails and impress your guests with your mixology skills!