At this time of the year, many of us begrudgingly acknowledge that the days are growing shorter and colder. But there’s reason to celebrate the arrival of crisp autumn breezes and cool fall days—this is when cocktail menus move away from light, citrus-forward concoctions and focus on rich, sweet libations. Darker spirits, specifically whiskeys and aged rums, become the liquor of choice for most bartenders, and many accentuate those spirits with the addition of pure maple syrup.

“For me it’s the savory notes…