Paul Kushner
The Fall Margarita is a seasonal twist on the classic margarita, blending smoky mezcal with the cozy flavors of apple, maple, and cinnamon. The result is a cocktail that embodies autumn in a glass, offering warmth, spice, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for crisp evenings, fall gatherings, or holiday celebrations, this drink balances the earthy smokiness of mezcal with the brightness of citrus and the comfort of seasonal spices. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night by the fire, this margarita delivers festive flair and bold flavor.
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Tasting Notes
The Fall Margarita combines the smoky depth of mezcal with seasonal flavors, making it both refreshing and comforting. The lime juice adds crisp brightness, while apple juice softens the profile with gentle fruit sweetness. Maple syrup introduces a rich autumnal note that balances tartness and rounds out the drink. The cinnamon-sugar rim enhances the presentation while adding a spiced sweetness in every sip. Garnishes of apple slices, rosemary, and cinnamon sticks bring aromatic layers that perfectly match the cooler season. Together, these flavors create a cocktail that feels festive, smooth, and easy to enjoy at gatherings or quiet evenings.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this Fall Margarita, a few basic tools are essential. A shaker ensures the lime juice, mezcal, apple juice, and maple syrup mix evenly. A bar spoon or stirring rod can also be used if you prefer a gentler blend. A strainer helps achieve a smooth pour into your serving glass. For rimming, you’ll need a small bowl or plate to hold the cinnamon-sugar mixture. A rocks glass works best for this margarita, offering enough room for ice, garnishes, and the rim coating. Garnish picks or tongs make placement neater, adding polish to the final presentation.
Ingredients
- 1/2 ounces lime juice
- 1/2 ounces maple syrup
- 2 ounces Mezcal
- 1 ounces apple juice
- 1 lime wedge
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Cinnamon sticks rosemary, and apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine the lime juice, maple syrup, Mezcal, apple juice, and ice. Stir for 30 seconds to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
- For the sugar rim (optional), mix the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your rocks glass, then dip the rims into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisting slightly to coat evenly.
- Carefully pour the margarita mixture into the rimmed glass.
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick, a sprig of rosemary, and a slice of apple.
- Cheers and enjoy your Fall Margarita!
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- Choose 100% apple juice without added sugar for balance.
- Adjust maple syrup amounts depending on your sweetness preference.
- Chill glasses beforehand to keep the drink colder for longer.
- Try smoked cinnamon sticks as garnish for a stronger aromatic effect.
- For a lighter cocktail, replace mezcal with tequila.
- Batch the drink for gatherings, preparing the rim garnish just before serving.
When to Serve
This Fall Margarita is well suited for autumn gatherings, whether casual evenings with friends or festive holiday dinners. Its smoky mezcal base makes it a perfect pairing with roasted meats, spiced dishes, and hearty fall fare. The maple and apple flavors give it a seasonal character that works well for Thanksgiving or pre-dinner cocktails during colder months. It’s equally enjoyable for smaller settings, like sipping by a fire pit or as a signature drink at a fall celebration. The combination of refreshing citrus and warming spices makes it versatile enough for both daytime and evening occasions.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Mezcal: Del Maguey Vida, Montelobos, or Los Amantes for approachable smoky flavor.
- Apple Juice: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh-pressed orchard varieties.
- Maple Syrup: Look for pure Grade A options such as Crown Maple or Coombs Family Farms.
- Lime Juice: Fresh-squeezed is best, but Lakewood Organic is a reliable bottled option.
- Cinnamon Sticks: McCormick or Simply Organic for consistent quality.
- Spark Garnishes: Use fresh rosemary and crisp apple slices for a polished finish.
Similar Cocktails
- Maple Margarita
- Apple Juice Maple Cocktail
- Apple Maple Dark and Stormy
- Autumn Vodka Smash
- Spiced Apple Margarita
Ingredients
- 1/2 ounces lime juice
- 1/2 ounces maple syrup
- 2 ounces Mezcal
- 1 ounces apple juice
- 1 lime wedge
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Cinnamon sticks rosemary, and apple slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine the lime juice, maple syrup, Mezcal, apple juice, and ice. Stir for 30 seconds to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.
- For the sugar rim (optional), mix the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your rocks glass, then dip the rims into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, twisting slightly to coat evenly.
- Carefully pour the margarita mixture into the rimmed glass.
- Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick, a sprig of rosemary, and a slice of apple.
- Cheers and enjoy your Fall Margarita!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for a brighter flavor.
- If you prefer a less smoky profile, substitute tequila for mezcal.
- Warm your apple juice slightly before mixing for an even cozier autumn feel.
