September is that weird month where the days may require a light jacket to keep away the chill or shorts for the occasional 80-degree day. That transitional summer-to-fall weather can also mean a shift in your drink of choice. While summer may have meant spritzes on your favorite rooftop bar, the early fall months have cocktails that are just as exciting and sip-worthy.
“The drinks for September are definitely becoming a little richer, with warmer notes and spicier ingredients,” says Wesley Dyer, bar manager of the Stone Bar at Antigua’s The Inn at English Harbour.
From hearty red wines to cocktails that are equal parts sweet and spicy to ways to drink Beyoncé’s new whisky line, there’s something for every taste and personality. Many of these cocktails can be whipped up at home with a few ingredients, or you can order them the next time you’re out with friends.
“I’m an Aquarius and Aquarians are known for being unique and passionate about what they believe in. The pisco sour is similar in that there is no other drink like it,” says Djibril Webb, executive chef at Chicago’s Mordecai of the brandy-based drink with a unique flavor profile 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 love it or loathe it cocktail, but Dyer says the intense Scorpio, “especially one that aspires to sophistication,” can appreciate the boozy caffeinated drink.
For his fellow adventurous and outgoing Sags, Dyer recommends the Compass; two ounces of rum, Sorrel simple syrup, bitters, and some ginger zest.
Similar to your fellow earthly Virgo, trying Queen Bey’s whisky is at the top of your list. But let’s be real, Capricorn, you don’t have time for cocktails. Instead just sip it neat to truly enjoy the flavors of the whisky that’s free of any additives or coloring.
