Falling Leaves

Pro tips

• Use a semidry (off-dry) riesling to balance the bitters and honey; too-sweet rieslings will cloy.
• Chill your glass beforehand; this drink benefits from staying cold longer without over-dilution.
• Stir the honey syrup thoroughly with the spirits before adding wine to ensure even sweetness distribution.
• Toast or lightly warm the star anise pod over a flame before garnishing to release its aromatic oils and enhance the presentation.

Substitutions

• Alsatian riesling → Dry Alsatian riesling or Gewürztraminer (reduces sweetness; adjust honey syrup to 1/4 oz)
• Pear eau-de-vie → Apple brandy or clear plum eau-de-vie (note: flavor profile shifts but maintains fruit-forward character)
• Orange curaçao → Cointreau or triple sec (use same measure; curaçao adds deeper orange depth)

Storage & make-ahead

Falling Leaves is a mixed cocktail served fresh; store unused honey syrup in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Equipment

bar spoon or mixing spoon · jigger or measuring glass · coupe glass or wine glass (chilled)

Can I make Falling Leaves ahead of time?

Mix the spirits, honey syrup, and bitters in advance and refrigerate; add the riesling and ice just before serving to preserve carbonation and chill.

What does Peychaud's bitters taste like in this drink?

Peychaud's adds subtle anise and spice notes that complement the pear and star anise garnish without overpowering the delicate riesling base.

Is pear eau-de-vie essential, or can I substitute?

Pear eau-de-vie is central to the flavor profile; clear fruit brandies (apple or plum) are closer alternatives than liqueurs, which will change the balance.

Should Falling Leaves be served cold or at room temperature?

Serve over ice in a chilled coupe or wine glass to keep the delicate aromatics cool while allowing the riesling's fruit to open.

Why use star anise as a garnish instead of a citrus twist?

Star anise echoes the bitters' anise notes and adds visual elegance; it can be stirred into the drink to infuse subtle licorice flavor as you sip.