Paul Kushner
The Crisp Apple cocktail is a refreshing highball that layers clean vodka with a medley of fruit juices, accented by the subtle melon sweetness of Midori. Apple, lemon-lime, and grapefruit juices create a balance of sweet, tart, and citrus flavors, while ginger beer adds spice and fizz to keep the drink lively. Finished with a fresh apple slice, this cocktail is both crisp and invigorating—perfect for those who enjoy light, fruit-forward drinks with a touch of complexity. Whether served at brunch, an outdoor gathering, or a casual evening, the Crisp Apple is easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasing.
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Tasting Notes
The Crisp Apple cocktail is refreshing and fruit-forward, blending vodka with layers of apple, citrus, and melon. Apple juice provides sweetness and a clean base, while lemon-lime and grapefruit juices bring tartness and a touch of bitterness for balance. Midori adds a subtle melon note and a hint of color, giving the drink extra dimension. Topped with ginger beer, the cocktail finishes with a lively kick of spice and bubbles. Garnished with a fresh apple slice, it’s a drink that feels crisp, bright, and refreshing with every sip perfect for those who enjoy light, balanced flavors.
Equipment and Glassware
This Crisp Apple cocktail requires minimal equipment, making it easy to prepare quickly. A highball glass is essential, providing enough room for ice, juices, and the ginger beer topper. A bar jigger ensures precise measurement of spirits and mixers, while a bar spoon is useful for gently stirring the drink without losing carbonation. A small paring knife comes in handy for preparing the apple garnish. Since the recipe is built directly in the glass, no shaker or strainer is necessary. These basic tools allow you to create a polished and refreshing cocktail without complicated bar techniques.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 2 oz apple juice
- 1 oz lemon-lime juice
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- 0.25 oz Midori
- Ginger beer (to top)
- Garnish: apple slice
Instructions
- Build: In a highball glass filled with ice, add vodka, lemon-lime juice, grapefruit juice, apple juice, and Midori.
- Top: Fill with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Add a fresh apple slice to the rim or float it on top for a bright, fresh finish.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh-squeezed lemon-lime and grapefruit juice for the brightest flavor and natural tartness.
- Choose a high-quality apple juice, preferably cold-pressed, for a crisper, fresher profile.
- Chill all ingredients ahead of time to maintain a cold, lively drink without excessive dilution.
- Add ginger beer last and stir very lightly to preserve the carbonation.
- A thin slice of Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apple works best as a garnish—they’re crisp and hold their shape beautifully.
- For an extra pop of color and flavor, float a few pomegranate seeds or a sprig of rosemary.
When to Serve
The Crisp Apple is versatile enough for both warm and cool seasons. Its refreshing quality makes it an excellent choice for outdoor summer gatherings, while the apple and spice notes also make it fitting for fall parties. It pairs well with lighter foods like salads, grilled seafood, or charcuterie boards. The ginger beer topper gives it a festive quality, making it suitable for casual celebrations or relaxed evenings at home. Whether served as a refreshing afternoon cocktail or a lively pre-dinner drink, the Crisp Apple delivers balance and approachability with every pour.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Absolut
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka
- Grey Goose
- Ketel One
- Smirnoff
Similar Cocktails
- Apple and Cinnamon Punch
- Cranberry Thyme Spritz
- Autumn Vodka Smash
- Rose Long Island Iced Tea
- Blue Mule
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 2 oz apple juice
- 1 oz lemon-lime juice
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- 0.25 oz Midori
- Ginger beer to top
- Garnish: apple slice
Instructions
- Build: In a highball glass filled with ice, add vodka, lemon-lime juice, grapefruit juice, apple juice, and Midori.
- Top: Fill with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish: Add a fresh apple slice to the rim or float it on top for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For a slightly sweeter version, use a sweeter apple juice or add a touch of honey.
- If you can’t find yuzu, substitute with a mix of lemon and lime juice for a similar tart flavor.
- Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for the freshest taste.
