Tell-Tale Heart: Imaginative Halloween Vodka Cocktail Recipes
Sep 02, 2025
If you want a Halloween vodka cocktail with real drama, the Tell-Tale Heart delivers. It is dark. It is moody. It is rich with fig and herb. This drink borrows the bones of a black heart cocktail and turns it into something more grown up and more intriguing. It is spooky with purpose.
Why the Tell-Tale Heart is a Perfect Halloween Vodka Cocktail
Most Halloween drinks lean too sweet. This one stays layered and elegant. Black vodka sets the tone. Fig and thyme infused vodka adds deep earthy richness. Polynesian Kiss Bitters bring tropical spice that brightens the entire drink. The combination tastes mysterious without feeling heavy. It looks theatrical but drinks smooth.
Tell-Tale Heart Recipe
Makes one cocktail
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz black vodka
- 1 oz fig & thyme infused vodka (recipe follows)
- 1 dash dry vermouth
- 4 dashes El Guapo™ Polynesian Kiss Bitters
- Fresh figs, for garnish
Instructions:
- Add both vodkas, dry vermouth and bitters to a shaker with ice.
- Shake until cold.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a split black fig.
How to Make Fig & Thyme Infused Vodka
This infusion is simple and adds real depth.
Ingredients:
- 6 ripe black figs
- 10-15 thyme sprigs
- 1 bottle vodka
Instructions:
- Quarter the figs and muddle them in a non reactive container.
- Strip the thyme leaves and add them to the figs.
- Pour the vodka over the mixture.
- Let it infuse at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
- Strain through cheesecloth.
- Bottle and refrigerate.
- It keeps for about two months.
Bitters for Depth in a Fig-Infused Cocktail
Polynesian Kiss Bitters bring subtle tropical fruit and warm spice. They lift the earthiness of fig and thyme. They add structure to a drink that could easily lean too rich. The result is a dry, aromatic Halloween cocktail that feels intentional. No artificial anything. Made in New Orleans.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is black vodka?
It is vodka colored with natural plant extracts like black catechu. It brings drama without changing the flavor.
Can I use regular vodka?
Yes. The drink will lose its dark color. Food safe coloring can mimic the look.
What does a gimlet taste like?
A classic gimlet is bright and tart with lime. This drink is richer and more complex thanks to the infusion and bitters.
