FALL COCKTAIL: AUTUMN INTERMISSION PUNCH

Sometimes the most memorable evenings begin before anyone takes a seat. Autumn Intermission Punch is crafted for those in-between moments, when guests linger a little longer, conversation flows effortlessly, and the warmth of the season settles in.

Autumn Intermission Punch

You'll Need 

• 2 ½ cups bourbon or rye
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 cup pear nectar
• ½ cup maple-spiced syrup
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 10 dashes aromatic bitters
• 2 cups chilled sparkling water
• *large ice block & garnish with thin apple & pear slices, orange wheels, cinnamon sticks & whole star anise

For the Maple-Spiced Syrup, simmer these ingredients for 8 minutes. Cool, strain & chill.

• ½ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup water
• 3 whole star anise
• cinnamon stick
• 3 thin slices fresh ginger
• a strip of orange peel

Directions

• In a punch bowl or wide pitcher, stir together the bourbon or rye, apple cider, pear nectar, syrup, citrus juices, and bitters. Chill for up to 4 hours. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and a large ice block, then stir gently.

Serve it over ice, garnish with seasonal fruit, and let it set the tone for an evening well spent.

For other seasonally-inspired hosting tips and cocktails for holiday entertaining, check out these other blog posts: "The PSL-ish": A Coffee Creation from Lawlss | Find Joy In Hosting For The Holidays | Charred Orange Hot Toddy