Paul Kushner
Alfie’s Apple is a cocktail that layers smoky, floral, and fruity notes into one balanced drink. Mezcal provides an earthy smokiness, while St-Germain adds a delicate elderflower sweetness. Apple cider and honey syrup bring seasonal warmth, with lemon juice offering brightness and balance. Peychaud’s bitters contribute subtle spice and color, while sparkling apple cider on top adds a refreshing fizz. Garnished with a crisp apple slice, this cocktail is both flavorful and aromatic. Ideal for autumn gatherings or when you want a drink that feels unique yet approachable, Alfie’s Apple delivers complexity in every sip.
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Tasting Notes
Alfie’s Apple is a cocktail that strikes a balance between smoky, floral, and crisp flavors. Mezcal provides the drink with depth and an earthy smokiness, while St-Germain adds light floral sweetness that complements the fruit elements. Apple cider enriches the base with natural sweetness, paired with lemon juice for brightness and honey syrup for smoothness. Peychaud’s Bitters contribute subtle spice and herbal notes, rounding out the flavor profile. Sparkling apple cider tops it off with fizz and freshness, making each sip lively. The apple garnish adds aroma and presentation, tying together the seasonal and layered character of the drink.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing Alfie’s Apple requires a few reliable tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for properly chilling and blending the mezcal, St-Germain, apple cider, lemon juice, honey syrup, and bitters. A strainer, ideally a fine-mesh one, ensures the cocktail is smooth and free of pulp or ice shards. A jigger provides accurate measurements, keeping flavors balanced. For serving, a double old-fashioned or highball glass works well, depending on whether you prefer a more compact or taller presentation. A bar spoon is useful for gently stirring in the sparkling apple cider before serving. A sharp knife makes slicing apple garnishes easy.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce mezcal
- 1 ounce St-Germain
- 1 ounce apple cider
- 0.5 ounce lemon juice
- 0.25 ounce honey syrup
- 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
- 2 ounces sparkling apple cider
- Apple slice for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the mezcal, St-Germain, apple cider, lemon juice, honey syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
- Shake the mixture until it is well-chilled.
- Double-strain the cocktail into the glass with ice.
- Top off the drink with apple soda, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of apple for a crisp, aromatic touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, sweet, and spiced flavors of this sophisticated cocktail.
Pro Tips
- Use artisanal mezcal for a more pronounced smoky depth.
- Fresh apple cider will provide brighter, richer flavor.
- Make honey syrup with equal parts honey and warm water for easy blending.
- Chill sparkling apple cider beforehand for maximum fizz.
- Double-strain to remove pulp and ice shards for a smoother texture.
- Cut thin apple slices so they float as garnish.
- Adjust honey syrup if your apple cider is already sweet.
When to Serve
Alfie’s Apple is well-suited for autumn and winter gatherings, offering complexity that feels special without being difficult to prepare. Its smoky-meets-fruity profile makes it perfect for cocktail hours, dinner parties, or festive holiday occasions. The sparkling finish keeps it lively enough for celebratory toasts, while the mezcal base ensures it feels robust and warming. It pairs nicely with cheese boards, roasted meats, or spiced desserts, making it versatile across different menus. Whether served at a holiday gathering or enjoyed during a quiet evening, Alfie’s Apple delivers a distinctive seasonal character that appeals to both casual and experienced cocktail drinkers.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Mezcal: Del Maguey Vida, Montelobos Espadín, or Ilegal Joven.
- St-Germain: The original elderflower liqueur is best, though Giffard Fleur de Sureau works as a substitute.
- Apple Cider: R.W. Knudsen, Martinelli’s, or fresh orchard-pressed cider.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Martinelli’s Sparkling Apple Cider or local sparkling varieties.
- Bitters: Peychaud’s, the traditional choice for its herbal and spiced profile.
- Honey Syrup: Homemade with raw honey and water for best texture and taste.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 1 ounce mezcal
- 1 ounce St-Germain
- 1 ounce apple cider
- 0.5 ounce lemon juice
- 0.25 ounce honey syrup
- 3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
- 2 ounces sparkling apple cider
- Apple slice for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add the mezcal, St-Germain, apple cider, lemon juice, honey syrup, and Peychaud’s Bitters.
- Shake the mixture until it is well-chilled.
- Double-strain the cocktail into the glass with ice.
- Top off the drink with apple soda, stirring gently to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of apple for a crisp, aromatic touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, sweet, and spiced flavors of this sophisticated cocktail.
Notes
- For a more intense smoky flavor, increase the amount of mezcal slightly.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey syrup or using a sweeter apple cider.
- To enhance the presentation, consider using a decorative apple slice garnish, such as a thin spiral or fan shape.
