2ouncesbourbon*recommended: Bulleit, Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Four Roses — this cocktail is also delicious with vodka or rum
2ouncesapple ciderI prefer unfiltered
1/2ouncelemon juice
3ouncesginger beerrecommended: Fever Tree
OPTIONAL: 1/2 ounce orange liqueurrecommended: Grand Marnier or Cointreau; I do not recommend triple sec; it’s just too sweet
Garnish: Cinnamon stickapple slice, spring of thyme
Instructions
Fill a rocks glass (or copper mug!) with ice.
Pour in the bourbon, cider, lemon juice, and orange liqueur (if using). Add the ginger beer.
Gently swirl the drink with a spoon one time to mix. Garnish with an apple slice, cinnamon stick, and spring of thyme. Enjoy!
Notes
TO MAKE A PITCHER (5 DRINKS): Stir together 10 ounces bourbon, 10 ounces apple cider, 2 1/2 ounces lemon juice, and 2 1/2 ounces orange liqueur (if using). Cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours or until ready to serve. To make the drinks, fill glasses with ice. Divide the mixture from the pitcher between them. Top with ginger beer and garnish as desired.
TO STORE: This drink is best the day it is made; if you anticipate extra, add the ginger beer to the individual servings only, then refrigerate the bourbon/cider/orange liqueur base in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Top with fresh ginger beer just before serving.