The coming long weekend ushers in the spooky season. Whether hosting a mysterious but fun Halloween get-together with family and friends, or eyeing a much-awaited me-time horror movie marathon, a refreshing drink is the ideal partner.

A nod to the jack-o-lantern tradition, bar expert Gioseppe Racelis introduces the Caramel Pumpkin Pietini. The concoction is a bloodcurdling fusion of vodka and pumpkin puree, promising a touch of grim in celebration of the supernatural. 

“With vodka, there is the warmth and kick for warding off the cold and the unknown,” he explains. “The cinnamon gives a hint of flavor and aroma, evoking the cozy yet festive mood.” 

With over 13 years of experience in the industry and a holder of a Level 2 Certification on Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), the former assistant food and beverage manager of Discovery Suites Manila understands that grownups, too, deserve a treat this Halloween.

“The caramel syrup adds a sweet and sticky twist, reminiscent of candies,” beams the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management (SHRIM) educator.

Pumpkin Melody, an original mocktail by aspiring bartender and Benilde SHRIM Hospitality Management major Sheila Marie Cervantes Sih, capitalizes on the immunity boost of the same fruit.

“It contains a variety of vitamins that can fend off the common cold,” she explains. “When blended with comforting cinnamon and ginger, we find ourselves savoring a delicious, healthy, and filling delight that everyone can enjoy.”

For those who are looking for more gloom and doom, the two-time champion of the Young Hotelier Exposition’s Creative Cocktail Competition suggests Nightmarish Rose, her personal homage to the ever-iconic Morticia Addams of the feared yet lovable classic Addams Family. 

“I was utterly captivated by her monochromatic elegance,” she says. “It was this fascination that inspired me to create the mixture.”

The cocktail embodies the eccentric beauty, charm, and passion of the eccentric and enigmatic Addams queen. It highlights the sweetness of strawberries, the delicate flavor of roses, and with an added touch of activated charcoal, it stands true to the Addams’ signature hue.

Caramel Pumpkin Pietini by Gio Racelis

Ingredients:

• 45 ml vanilla vodka
• 30 ml pumpkin puree 
• 30 ml caramel syrup
• 30 ml full cream milk
• Dash of cinnamon 
• for garnish

Procedure:

1. In a shaker, add all the ingredients and shake vigorously without ice.

2. Strain and serve in a martini glass rimmed with caramel syrup.

3. Garnish with a dash of cinnamon on top.

Pumpkin Melody by Sheila Marie Cervantes Sih

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp pumpkin puree
• ½ tsp cinnamon powder 
• ½ tsp ground ginger 
• 2 cups dairy of choice 
• 1 cinnamon stick 
• Whipped cream for garnish

Procedure:

1. In a pot, heat your dairy. Do not bring it to a boil.

2. Add the pumpkin puree, spices, and honey. Whisk it well.

3. Allow it to simmer to reach a creamy consistency. 

4. Pour into your favorite mug.

5. Garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon powder, and a cinnamon stick.

Nightmarish Rose Cocktail by Sheila Marie Cervantes Sih

Rose Simple Syrup Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar 
• 1 cup water 
• ½ tsp of rose water 

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 60 ml strawberry-infused gin
• 15 ml lemon juice 
• 1 egg white 
• ½ tsp of activated charcoal powder 

Procedure:

For the rose syrup:

1. Heat the sugar and water in a pot and stir until the sugar dissolves.

2. Turn off the heat.

3. Allow the syrup to slightly cool before adding rose water. Be careful, as rose water is quite strong.

For the cocktail:

4. In a shaker, add all the ingredients and shake vigorously.

5. Add ice and shake it once more.

6. Double strain and serve in a chilled martini glass.

7. Garnish with strawberries. Enjoy!