As the weather gets colder and the nights longer, thoughts of pumpkin spice and cinnamon float into my head. Also thoughts of whiskey and firepits, but maybe that's just me! For all of you fall brides, and autumnal cocktail junkies out there; we have a treat for you. The wonderful bar manager of Alivia's Durham Bistro (who also happens to be my wonderful husband... I know, I am a lucky lady) has come up with three signature cocktails to spice up your fall parties, weddings, or Sunday evenings at home. And yes, I did get to taste them; and yes, they are as good as they look!

The Gold Rush: This one is my personal favorite. It has a snap from the freshly infused ginger syrup, a smooth whiskey finish (do you see a trend? I am a whiskey girl!) and the sweetness is cut perfectly by a squeeze of lemon.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, mix 1.5oz of Maker's Mark, 0.5oz of ginger syrup (infusing your own syrup, while awesome, is not necessary for a great cocktail!), and 0.5oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Shake well.

Rim a rocks glass with ginger infused sugar (again, you can buy this if you don't want to make it), and fill the glass with ice. Strain the cocktail shaker into the glass and top with Blenheim Old #3 Hot Ginger Ale (not any old ginger ale will do for this one. You need the good spicy stuff!) Finish with a twist of lemon and enjoy!

Pumpkin Spiced Martini: How decadent and scrumptious does this little one look?! It was so pretty I didn't want to drink it. But I managed, in the name of the Gather Together Blog. You're welcome.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice mix 2oz Absolut Vanilla Vodka, 0.5oz Pumpkin Spice Syrup and 0.5oz Bailey's Irish Cream and shake well. Rim a martini glass with cinnamon and strain the shaker into the glass. Top with a teaspoon of whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg. Garnish with a whole cinnamon stick and serve.

Dublin Mule: This one will make you yearn for a tryst around Ireland with your sweetheart, and would be perfect for a couple taking a European honeymoon!

This one should be served in a copper mug, but I've substituted a mason jar to show you that it would still be aesthetically pleasing to your guests without the extra expense of traditional mugs. 

In an ice cold copper mug filled with ice, mix 1.5oz Jameson Irish Whiskey and 3oz ginger beer, squeeze in several lime wedges and add them to the drink. Garnish with an extra wedge if desired and serve.

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 If that didn't whet your appetite then I don't know what will. And while you ponder your signature cocktails, keep the name in mind. It's a super quick and fun way to personalize your wedding bar. Use inside jokes, plays on your names or heritage, puns significant to you. Use it as an opportunity to shoutout a special person, time, or place in your lives.

And make sure it's a drink you or your significant other enjoy. Every time you make it at home you'll be reminded of your day and all the fun you had!

Salut! 'Til we Gather Together again...

-Fay