The Rye & Spice Martini: A Twist on the Pumpkin Classic

Calling all rye whiskey lovers! This Pumpkin Spice Martini takes the traditional fall favorite and gives it a sophisticated twist with the addition of bold rye whiskey. The result? A warm, complex cocktail that celebrates the flavors of autumn.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces rye whiskey
• ¾ ounce pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
• ¾ ounce sweet vermouth (or ½ ounce dry vermouth for a less sweet drink)
• ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Maple syrup (to taste, optional)
• Ice cubes
• Garnish (optional): Orange peel, cinnamon stick, or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice

Instructions:

1. Pop your martini glass in the freezer for 15 minutes or fill it with ice and water for a few minutes.
2. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the rye whiskey, pumpkin puree, sweet vermouth, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for 30 seconds, until the drink is well chilled and frothy.
4. Double strain the martini into your chilled glass to remove any ice chips or pumpkin puree flecks.
5. Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink (hold the peel over the glass and squeeze gently to release the oils) and then discard it. Alternatively, use a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a touch of seasonal flair.

Tips:

• The sweetness comes from the vermouth. Start with ¾ ounce of sweet vermouth and taste before adding maple syrup. If you prefer a drier drink, use ½ ounce of dry vermouth and skip the maple syrup altogether.
• For a more intense pumpkin flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger to the shaker with the other ingredients.
• Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of Angostura bitters to the shaker for a touch of complexity.

Embrace the warmth and spice of fall with this unique Rye & Spice Martini!