BevX Cocktails

Bluegrass Midnight Warmer

I dreamed up this cocktail while trying to find a counterpoint to all of the incredibly sweet Apple Martinis that are STILL found in bars today. I knew that it had to offer 'real' apple flavors and the best way that I found to do this was by using apple cider. Once I had the cider in place the two spirits used here a natural choice. You need a Bourbon with a bolder profile to be sure it doesn't get lost in the cider.

Next, my liqueur had to be expressive and pure as well as a natural with apples. Ginger Liqueur seemed like a natural supporting player as ginger offers the pepper edge while marrying perfectly with the fruit. In sum, it's a damn tasty cocktail with enough fruity flavors for those who seek something sweeter while being complex and zesty for the Whiskey cocktail lover. Enjoy!

Ingredients

2 oz. Quality Bourbon (I like a Rye heavy Bourbon here)
3/4 oz. Ginger Liqueur
1 oz. Apple Cider (not hard cider)
2 dashes of allspice bitters

Occasion

This cocktail was designed to be enjoyed on the first cool nights of autumn and then throughout the holiday season when fresh cider can be found.

Method

Place all of the ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously – this is important so don't be shy about it as you want to build a thick, white foam. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice and garnish the substantial foam with a dusting of freshly ground nutmeg.

Variations

You can mix up the flavor profile by switching the Bourbon with Rye or a quality American Brandy for a very different taste sensation.

Source: Sean Ludford, BevX