Paul Kushner
The Apple Brandy Sour is a seasonal twist on the classic sour cocktail, bringing together bold fruit flavor and smooth texture in every sip. Apple brandy serves as the base, offering rich apple notes with a hint of warmth, while fresh lemon juice adds a tart brightness that balances the drink. Maple syrup rounds it out with gentle sweetness, giving it a cozy autumn character. Shaken with egg white, the cocktail develops a creamy, silky foam that feels smooth on the palate. A dash of aromatic bitters adds depth, making this drink refined, balanced, and perfect for cooler evenings.
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Tasting Notes
The Apple Brandy Sour is a smooth, frothy cocktail that balances orchard sweetness with bright acidity and spice. Apple brandy provides a rich, fruit-forward foundation, layered with notes of baked apples and oak. Fresh lemon juice cuts through with tart freshness, while maple syrup adds depth and earthy sweetness. The egg white gives the cocktail a creamy texture and foamy top, softening the sharp citrus and creating a silky mouthfeel. Aromatic bitters add complexity with spiced, herbal undertones. Garnished with a cherry, this drink offers sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors in a presentation that feels classic and inviting.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing the Apple Brandy Sour requires a few key tools. A cocktail shaker is essential for both the wet shake (with ice) to chill and the dry shake (without ice) to build foam. A strainer ensures a clean pour into the glass, while a fine mesh strainer can be used for extra smoothness. A jigger is necessary for precise measurement of brandy, syrup, and citrus. For serving, a sour glass or coupe works best, showcasing the frothy head. A bar spoon or cocktail pick helps place the cherry garnish neatly on top, completing the classic presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces apple brandy
- 0.75 ounce lemon juice
- 0.5 ounce maple syrup
- 1 egg white
- 3 dashes aromatic bitters
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the apple brandy, lemon juice, maple syrup, egg white, and cubed ice.
- Shake the mixture vigorously to chill the ingredients.
- Remove the ice from the shaker and perform a “dry shake” (shaking without ice) to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy texture.
- Strain the cocktail into a sour glass, allowing the frothy mixture to settle.
- Garnish with a cherry for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smooth flavors of this classic sour cocktail.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the cleanest citrus flavor.
- Opt for real maple syrup instead of artificial syrups.
- Perform a “reverse dry shake” for denser foam.
- Double strain to ensure a smooth texture.
- Chill the glass in advance for better presentation.
- Add a cinnamon stick or grated nutmeg for extra aroma.
- Experiment with different bitters, such as walnut or cardamom.
- Serve immediately to preserve the foam’s structure.
When to Serve
The Apple Brandy Sour is perfect for autumn and winter gatherings, offering a balance of rich and refreshing qualities. Its creamy texture and spiced undertones make it ideal as a pre-dinner cocktail, complementing hearty seasonal meals. The festive presentation also makes it a great choice for Thanksgiving or holiday parties, where its frothy crown and cherry garnish stand out. With its approachable sweetness and layered flavors, it appeals to both cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers. Whether served at a dinner party or enjoyed on a quiet evening, this cocktail embodies the comforting character of apple and spice.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Apple Brandy: Laird’s Applejack, Christian Drouin, Copper & Kings
- Bitters: Angostura, Fee Brothers, Bittercube
Similar Cocktails
- Applejack Rabbit Cocktail
- Apple-Brandy Hot Toddies
- Apple Brandy Rickey
- Maple-Bourbon Smash
- Widow’s Kiss Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces apple brandy
- 0.75 ounce lemon juice
- 0.5 ounce maple syrup
- 1 egg white
- 3 dashes aromatic bitters
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the apple brandy, lemon juice, maple syrup, egg white, and cubed ice.
- Shake the mixture vigorously to chill the ingredients.
- Remove the ice from the shaker and perform a “dry shake” (shaking without ice) to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy texture.
- Strain the cocktail into a sour glass, allowing the frothy mixture to settle.
- Garnish with a cherry for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, smooth flavors of this classic sour cocktail.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a silkier texture, double strain the cocktail to remove any small ice chips or bits of egg white.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor and balance.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, add a bit more maple syrup to taste.
