The weather this October can’t seem to make up its mind. Is it summer? Fall? Summer again? No matter. If you’re looking for libations that will help you say farewell to summer and welcome to autumn, the Golden Fig has what you need. It’s stocking syrups and mixers that make great nonalcohol- and alcohol-based drinks that are a toast to whichever season you wish to cheer.
To get a last taste of summer that also has a hint of fall, try Quince & Apple’s Citrus syrup ($14), made in Madison, Wis. Sampling this mouth-puckering, tangy syrup is like jumping into a cold lake on a hot day. Some might enjoy it undiluted, but it is meant to be a mixer; you could tone it down with club soda or — with our preference — tequila. The latter makes a potent cocktail that isn’t sweet, but is citrusy and reminiscent of summer.
If you’re in the mood for fall, pick up a bottle of Golden Fig’s own Autumn Elixer* ($12 for 16 ounces, $17 for 32 ounces). This is a wildly intense syrup, packed with vibrant flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, fenugreek, cardamom, and lemon. You could drink it straight in small amounts, or you could cut it with club soda, which lightens it and makes it more sodapop-like.
Or if you’re in the mood for an adult beverage, mix the Autumn Elixer with vodka. What you get is a zippy, flavorful, bonfire-friendly welcome to fall. This would be a great drink to serve your closest friends on a cool autumn evening, a drink that’s not too sweet, but spicy enough to sip slowly and then have another. If you need warming up, this one will help.
Golden Fig, 790 Grand Ave, St Paul; 651.602.0144
*Their spelling.