As our wardrobes make the transition from summer to fall, so too should our cocktails. But since we’re not quite in the dead of winter yet, now is the ideal time to select a spirit that’s traditionally light—like gin—and make it seasonally appropriate. For help in crafting the perfect fall cocktail, we turned to expert mixologist Justin Noel, the founder of Closing Time Cocktails, a beverage consulting company.
“The Scottish Harvest cocktail is great for the beginning of fall because apples and dark berries are traditional flavors you start to think about and use during this time. It’s a very refreshing drink—we still have nice sunny days during this season after all—and is easily executable without sacrificing sophistication or style,” Noel says. “When you’re building a cocktail you should also think about the flavor profiles that are in the spirit you’re using.”
“Gin is a great spirit to work with in any season because you can highlight different botanicals and it really adds something to the drink, rather than getting lost. Caorunn Gin in particular works well in this cocktail because one of its botanicals is coul blush apple, a red apple native to Scotland, and its slightly fruity, citrus profile complements the lemon and tart fruit flavor.”
Below, Noel shares the recipe for the Scottish Harvest.
Scottish Harvest:
1.5oz Caorunn Gin
1oz Fresh Apple Juice
.75oz Lemon Juice
.25oz Simple Syrup
Top with soda
2 blackberries
2 Basil Leafs
In a mixing glass throw in blackberries, basil, and lemon juice. Muddle slightly. Add simple syrup, apple juice, and Caorunn. Add ice and shake. Strain into a highball and top with soda. Garnish with a Basil leaf and blackberry.
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