The Fall from the Tree cocktail highlights the rich flavors of bourbon paired with crisp apple and a gentle touch of spice. Cinnamon syrup adds seasonal warmth, while lemon juice brings just enough brightness to balance the sweetness. Aromatic bitters round out the drink with depth and complexity. Served in a chilled coupe glass and garnished with a fresh apple slice, this cocktail feels refined yet comforting. It’s an excellent choice for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a signature drink to celebrate the harvest season.

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Tasting Notes

The Fall from the Tree cocktail is a smooth, balanced drink with bourbon at its core. The whiskey brings notes of oak, caramel, and spice, which pair naturally with the sweetness of apple juice. Cinnamon syrup adds warmth, enhancing the cocktail’s seasonal feel, while lemon juice contributes just enough acidity to keep the flavor bright. A dash of aromatic bitters ties everything together with subtle herbal depth. Served in a coupe glass, the drink feels polished yet approachable. Garnished with a crisp apple slice, it’s a cocktail that highlights autumn flavors in a simple, well-rounded way.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this Fall from the Tree cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for blending the bourbon, apple juice, syrup, lemon juice, and bitters. A jigger ensures precise measurement, which is key to balancing sweetness, acidity, and strength. Ice is necessary for both chilling and dilution during shaking. A strainer helps achieve a smooth pour into the serving glass. For presentation, a chilled coupe glass works perfectly, giving the drink an elegant look while highlighting its amber hue. A sharp paring knife is useful for slicing the apple garnish, ensuring a neat, eye-catching finish that complements the overall style of the drink.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces bourbon
1 ounce apple juice
1/2 ounce cinnamon syrup
1/4 ounce lemon juice
1 dash aromatic bitters
Apple slice for garnish

Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, apple juice, cinnamon syrup, lemon juice, and aromatic bitters.
Add ice to the shaker and shake until the mixture is well-chilled.
Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with an apple slice.
Enjoy your Fall from the Tree cocktail!

Pro Tips

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a cleaner flavor.
Try unfiltered apple juice for added depth and richness.
Homemade cinnamon syrup allows you to control sweetness and spice intensity.
Double strain the cocktail if you prefer a smoother texture.
Chill the coupe glass in advance for a polished presentation.
A thin, fanned apple slice makes an attractive garnish.
Add an extra dash of bitters for more herbal depth.

When to Serve

Fall from the Tree is an excellent choice for autumn evenings, dinner parties, and seasonal celebrations. Its balance of bourbon, apple, and spice makes it versatile enough for both casual and more formal occasions. The cocktail pairs well with savory fall dishes, cheese boards, or holiday desserts, making it a flexible option for entertaining. Its approachable flavor profile also makes it appealing to a wide range of guests, even those new to bourbon. Whether served at a Thanksgiving dinner, a fall gathering with friends, or a quiet night in, it’s a cocktail that highlights the season beautifully.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Four Roses for a balanced base.
Apple Juice: Martinelli’s, R.W. Knudsen, or fresh-pressed orchard juice.
Cinnamon Syrup: Homemade for customization, or Monin and Torani for consistency.
Bitters: Angostura Aromatic Bitters is the classic choice, though Fee Brothers also works.
Lemon Juice: Fresh-squeezed lemon for brightness; bottled Lakewood Organic as a backup.
Apple Garnish: Crisp, firm varieties such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for flavor and presentation.

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