As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s no better time to snuggle up with a good movie and a fall cocktail in hand. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or modern blockbusters, we’ve got the perfect drink to complement your viewing experience. Here are four holiday cocktail pairings that will elevate your fall movie nights to a whole new level of cozy.
1. Harvest Apple Mule
Movie Pairing: “When Harry Met Sally”
Start your fall movie marathon with a timeless rom-com like When Harry Met Sally. The Harvest Apple Mule is a refreshing twist on the beloved favorite the Moscow Mule. Made with crisp apple cider, ginger beer, and vodka, this cocktail is as sweet and tart as Sally’s personality. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for the perfect autumnal touch.
Recipe:
1.5 oz vodka
1 oz apple cider
0.5 oz lemon juice
2 oz ginger beer
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine the vodka, apple cider, lemon juice, and ginger beer.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake well to chill the mixture.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass.
- Add ice to the rocks glass.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
- Serve and enjoy!
2. Apple Cider Old Fashioned
Movie Pairing: The Godfather
For a more intense and dramatic evening, pair The Godfather with the rich and complex flavors of an Apple Cider Old Fashioned. This twist on the classic Old Fashioned blends bourbon, and apple cider, creating a holiday cocktail that’s as bold and layered as the Corleone family’s saga. Sip slowly and let the flavors enhance the storytelling of this cinematic masterpiece.
Recipe:
1.5 oz bourbon
0.5 oz simple syrup
4 dashes Angostura Bitters
2 oz Martinelli’s Sparkling Apple Cider
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice to a yari and stir well to chill the mixture.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass.
- Add a large ice cube to the rocks glass.
- Top with apple cider.
- Garnish with an apple slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
3. Wonderland Cosmo
Movie Pairing: “The Holiday”
Get whisked away to a winter wonderland with The Holiday and a Wonderland Cosmo in hand. This vibrant cocktail, inspired by the classic Cosmopolitan, features cranberry juice and a splash of triple sec for a tart and festive flavor. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy while watching two women swap homes for the holidays leading to unexpected love and adventure.
Recipe:
1.5 oz vodka
0.75 oz lime juice
1 oz white cranberry juice
0.25 oz triple sec
0.25 oz simple syrup
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine the vodka, lime juice, white cranberry juice, triple sec and simple syrup.
- Add ice to a shaker and shake well to chill the mixture.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a cranberry.
- Serve and enjoy!
4. Mulled Tart Cherry Mocktail
Movie Pairing: “Little Women”
For a non-alcoholic option, pair Little Women with a Mulled Tart Cherry Mocktail. This warm, spiced drink is perfect for cozying up with Louisa May Alcott’s beloved characters as they navigate love, family, and personal growth. The tart cherry syrup and cranberry juice create a comforting beverage that pairs perfectly with the heartwarming spirit of this classic.
Recipe:
1.5 oz Mulled Spiced Tart Cherry Syrup
2 oz cranberry juice
Topped with Ginger Beer
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine the syrup, and cranberry juice.
- Add ice to a shaker and shake well to chill the mixture.
- Dump the mocktail into a rocks glass.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a cranberry and rosemary sprig.
- Serve and enjoy!
With these perfect pairings, your fall movie nights will be full of flavor and festivity. Whether you’re watching a rom-com, a drama, or a heartwarming classic, these cocktails and mocktails are sure to enhance your viewing experience. Cheers to a cozy season of great films and even better drinks!