September is that peculiar month where you might need a light jacket to fend off the morning chill or don shorts for those surprise 80-degree days. This seasonal transition from summer to autumn often influences your choice of beverage. While summer may have been all about enjoying spritzes on a rooftop, early fall introduces cocktails that are equally thrilling and delightful to sip on.
“The drinks for September are definitely becoming a little richer, with warmer notes and spicier ingredients,” notes Wesley Dyer, bar manager at the Stone Bar at Antigua’s The Inn at English Harbour.
Whether it’s robust red wines or cocktails that blend sweetness with spice, or exploring Beyoncé’s new whisky range, there is a drink to match every palate and character. Many of these drinks are simple to make at home with just a few ingredients, or you can try them when you’re next dining out with friends.
“I’m an Aquarius and Aquarians are known for their uniqueness and passion. The pisco sour is akin to that because there is simply no other drink like it,” shares Djibril Webb, executive chef at Chicago’s Mordecai about the brandy-based cocktail that boasts a distinct flavor and texture.
“It’s tasty, but boozy, and is easy on the eyes,” is how Rodrigo Pulido, bar manager at elNico describes a Cosmopolitan. “Not that Pisces necessarily share the same qualities, but it’s the perfect drink to order when you want to ease into a night of talking.”
The ever energetic and impulsive Aries would enjoy a Bee Sting, says Dyer. Four simple ingredients (honey simple syrup, lemon, jalapeno, and gin or tequila) make this easy to create at home or sip at the bar. It’s sweet with just the right amount of heat.
Webb suggests a classic gin and tonic for the grounded Taurus. “Its simplicity leaves no room for surprise and the botanicals are a subtle nod to its earth family.”
Sure you’ve sipped your fair share of martinis, but what about one garnished with tomolives? The pickled green tomatoes actually look similar to olives and the brine is the perfect salty finish to your gin or vodka-based martini.
It’s always summer for the water-loving Cancer. Hold on to those last few days of the warmer months with a Tinto de Verano. The Spanish drink, which translates to summer red wine, is equal parts wine and a lemon-lime soda. Simple and refreshing.
Leos love a bit of flair, so opt for a Lambrusco Aperol spritz. The fun, fizzy red wine makes for the perfect fall upgrade to the go-to summer drink.
The ultimate Virgo debuts her spirit line this month, so it’s only right to try a cocktail using Beyoncé’s SirDavis whisky. The Honey Bee (whisky, lemon juice, and honey syrup) is sure to be your new post-work cocktail.
“For a Libra, white negronis are a bit more balanced than their red counterparts,” says Pulido. The spin on the classic cocktail has a lighter flavor and is a bit more floral thanks to the substitution of gin and Lillet Blanc, a fortified French wine.
The espresso martini continues to be a polarizing cocktail, yet Dyer suggests the intense Scorpio who leans towards sophistication might savor this caffeinated alcoholic beverage.
For his like-minded adventurous and outgoing Sagittarians, Dyer proposes the Compass; comprising two ounces of rum, Sorrel simple syrup, bitters, and a hint of ginger zest.
Just like your earthy Virgo peers, trying Queen Bey’s whisky is likely on your list. However, let’s face it, Capricorn, your schedule is tight. It might be best to simply enjoy the whisky neat, experiencing its rich, unaltered flavor.