It’s the time of year again for some of New England’s favorite pasttimes! Leaf peeping, apple picking, hay rides and harvest fairs are back…oh October, how I do love you!  Nothing whets my appetite more for a Fall Elixir than crisp chilly days spent tromping around the New England outdoors in Autumn.  This year our Apres-Leaf-Peeping Cocktail is a positively delicious Maple Flirtini.  It’s rich (with spiced rum and fresh maple syrup), spicy (with fresh pressed ginger and cinnamon), bright (with lemon and bitters) and smooth (with sweet vanilla schnapps). So, fellow New Englanders, grab the fur and flannel, peep some leaves, score yourself a pumpkin, and invite the entire crew over for this wonderful libation that packs a serious autumn punch! From our table to yours, Cheers! – Anna Rossi
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The MAPLE FLIRTINI: Serves 6 (Recipe can be doubled and makes a great punch!)
The Bar:
1 1/2 c. light spiced rum – I use Mount Gay, Capt. Morgan’s is also nice
3 c. cider – Trader Joe’s Pear Cinnamon Cider is fantastic, if you can find it, otherwise apple juice, cider or even Martinelli’s Sparkling is a great alternative
2 oz vanilla schnapps/liqueur
2 oz maple syrup
Dash of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
2 + Tbsp pressed ginger – I love extra ginger-the more the better! I also like the pulp-the drink feels a little more hearty and healthy. If you prefer a thinner drink, simply strain the juice!
2 Tbsp lemon juice
Fresh pomegranate, ground nutmeg and a cinnamon stick for garnish!
*You can control how sweet the party is based on how much schnapps and syrup you add.  If you would like something a little less sweet, add just half of the vanilla schnapps and maple syrup quantity then add an extra squeeze of ginger. Spicy!
Serve shaken straight up, stirred on the rocks, or double the recipe for a crowd-pleasing punch.