There’s something harmonious about starting a fire and sipping on a dark cocktail. It’s an unspoken rule that the liquors turn darker as the leaves change colors and we move the white wines and rosé to a separate fridge for the season. With events moving indoors or perhaps outdoors close to a firepit, bourbon, whiskey, brandy help keep everyone warm and cheerful. As you settle into those chunky knit sweaters and cuddle up close to a fire, try these classic Fall cocktails that are staples in our house. All are sure to please.

No. 1 - Old Fashion 

This simple and classic cocktail is a Fall favorite of mine and has been sipped for over 200 years. Created using 5 ingredients that you likely already have at home, a delicious cocktail is only minutes away.

No. 2 - The Full Windsor

This is the perfect backup plan for any dinner party you host for the next few weeks. I always make a delicious batch of Full Windsor in the beginning of November, that is enjoyed over the course of several evenings or one fun night. Yes, the ingredient list is bit longer than other cocktails but you can make a large batch of this delicious drink and store in the refrigerator for an easy, ready to drink, mixed drink. 

No. 3 - The Top Hat

I was first introduced to this great cocktail while dining at The Polo Bar a few years back. The drink itself is not the easiest to make, however it’s great to craft when you have an attentive audience at your bar willing to try something new. It is a complex drink with a dynamic taste, but one that will surely impress any guest you have in attendance. I’ve learned with Cognac and the right cocktail, an evening is destined to be memorable.

No. 4 - The Espresso Martini

The dinners at the RH farm start with light cocktails and move onto a heavier wine to accompany dinner. One of my favorite end of the evening cocktails is the Espresso Martini, which I’ve mastered to make and deliver in speedy time. Its the perfect antidote for a closing evening and one that always gets my guests out on the dance floor or up for a round of billiards.

No 5. - A Man’s Manhattan

The Manhattan cocktail is one of the oldest American cocktails, not to mention of of the easiest. The drink traces it’s history to the 1870s when served at a banquet at the Manhattan Club, it was an instant success – and became known as a Manhattan. I’ve always been a fan of the classic Manhattan, but have leaned toward using a bourbon in my home bar. This drink rich and smokey at the same time, perfect for a cold evening.