Olivia Taylor
Introduction
We tend to associate Fall with pumpkin carvings, trick-or-treating, and perhaps most importantly, bourbon cocktails. Whether you’re cosied up by a crackling fire or hosting your annual Thanksgiving dinner, bourbon cocktails provide a warm, comforting accompaniment no fall event would be complete without. But, when you’ve exhausted all the classic recipes, what’s left to try?
Well, we decided to reach out to some of the industry’s most elite bartenders to help us discover some under-the-radar fall bourbon cocktails. After all, if there’s anyone who knows their way around a liquor cabinet, it’s these folks.
The Most Underrated Bourbon Cocktails According to Bartenders
1. Black Walnut Old Fashioned
This fall twist on a classic Old Fashioned is beloved by Samantha Ortiz, a seasoned bartender from New York City. She suggests adding black walnut bitters to your bourbon to really ramp up the autumn vibes this drink elicits.
2. Bourbon Spiked Chai
For those cold nights when you just want to curl up under a blanket and watch a movie, the bourbon-spiked chai is a comforting companion. Benjamin, a famed mixologist from London, says that the combination of warm chai spices with bourbon makes for an underrated, yet blissful fall cocktail.
3. Smoky Bourbon Cider
Blending the tartness of apple cider with the strength of bourbon, the Smoky Bourbon Cider is perhaps one of the most underrated cocktails, according to Tim from Toronto. Topping the cider-bourbon mix with a lemon twist and smoked cinnamon stick can take this delightful concoction to another level.
4. Ginger Snap
Alex, a bartender in sunny California, suggests infusing bourbon with ginger for a snap of vibrancy. Alex says the combination of bourbon’s rich sweetness with ginger’s spicy zing makes for a concoction that encapsulates the essence of fall.
5. Honey Bourbon Smash
Claire from Chicago loves the sweet simplicity of a Honey Bourbon Smash. Mashed lemon wedges, bourbon, honey, and a splash of water make this a refreshing, but comforting cocktail. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour that Claire believes tends to be underrated.
The Secret to a Good Bourbon Cocktail
Contrary to popular belief, making a good bourbon cocktail isn’t about the complexity of the recipe, or the number of ingredients — it’s about balance. Each of the bartenders we spoke to emphasized the importance of the right proportions. So, when you’re making your next bourbon cocktail, remember — quality trumps quantity.
A Word on Bourbon
Bourbon is a versatile, complex spirit. Its rich, smokey character paired with its underpinning sweetness can complement a myriad of flavors and profiles. And yet, it’s often overlooked in favor of its counterparts like whiskey, rum, or gin. So, next time you’re hosting a party, or just doing some experimental mixology, consider trying one of the above bourbon cocktails and join us in appreciating the underrated brilliance of this distilled delight.
Conclusion
As the leaves start to turn and the nights draw in, there’s no better accompaniment than a warming bourbon cocktail. We hope these underrated suggestions from bartenders around the globe inspire your next autumnal beverage. So grab your shaker, your favorite bourbon, and get ready to enjoy the full flavors of fall.
Fall is the perfect season to explore new and exciting flavors, and what better way to do that than with bourbon cocktails? These 15 bartenders have shared some hidden gems that deserve our attention. From warm spices to unique flavors, each recipe promises a smooth and delightful experience. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to add some flair to your evening, these overlooked bourbon cocktails will surely impress your guests and delight your taste buds. With these creative and delicious recipes, you’ll have the perfect drink to complement your autumn celebrations. Cheers to a fall filled with unforgettable sips!