Fall Cocktails Along the Makers Trail

There is truly so much to love about fall in Michigan: Bright leaves, cooler weather, harvest time in the vineyards, cider and donuts, and fall cocktails along the Makers Trail. While the wineries, breweries, and distilleries in Southwest Michigan are worth a visit all year long, I love when the new fall cocktail menus roll out. But with so many stops to choose from where should you start? Don't worry - I've rounded up my top four favorite fall cocktails for you to try out (all in the name of research of course!) Don't forget to pick up a Maker's Trail passport on your adventures to get stamps and earn great prizes for each stop you make. 

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Southwest Michigan Tourist Council. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.  

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Stop #1 - Honey Crisp Mule at Silver Harbor Brewing Company 

The drink: Vodka, apple cider, lime juice, ginger simple syrup, ginger ale, apple slice and cinnamon stick. 

Silver Harbor puts a fun fall twist on the classic mule and it absolutely perfect for the season. I love honey crisp apples and this cocktail has such a light and refreshing flavor. Pair it with the harvest Cobb salad with butternut squash and apple cider vinaigrette and the famous jalapeño bacon Mac n' cheese egg rolls.

Stop #2 - Apple Cider Mimosa at Tabor Hill

The drink: Sparking Demi-Sec, Jollay Farms apple cider, and brown sugar syrup. 

Did someone say brunch? There is so much to love about this mid-morning cocktail. Not only does it include locally-made Michigan cider, it also subs standard Champagne for Tabor Hill's own sparkling Demi-Sec (which is fantastic on its own). Finished off with a brown sugar rim - this cocktail is a winner in my book! Pair it with one of their signature cheese and charcuterie boards or my personal favorite - the raspberry chicken. And if it's one of those perfect, sunny fall days you can enjoy your cocktail on their patio overlooking the vineyard. 

Stop #3 - Cran-Apple Margarita at Round Barn Brewery and Public House

The drink: Blue Flame Agave, cranberry juice, apple cider, and fresh squeezed orange juice garnished with orange slice and dried apple. 

Man do I love a good margarita and this one made with Round Barn's own tequila and did not disappoint. Public House has SO many fall cocktails on their menu I honestly wanted to try them all including their rotating monthly drink which is always super unique. Pair this one with the pub nachos or cilantro lime chicken wrap. 

Stop #4 - Hayride at Iron Shoe Distillery 

The drink: White rum, apple cider, apple-cinnamon syrup, lemon. 

If you haven't noticed a trend by now, apple cider is the star of the show for all of these cocktails but this time paired with rum. I loved the hint of cinnamon in this cocktail as well. Iron Shoe is know for their unique flavors of diffused liquor that are always rotating on tap. And you must pair this drink with the cheese curds (trust me) and one of their signature burgers.