Paul Kushner
The Smoky Apple Cider Paloma Mocktail is a cozy, fall-inspired drink with a crisp, smoky twist. It combines the tartness of grapefruit with the sweet spice of apple cider, balanced by a splash of lime and a hint of smoke usually from smoked salt or a smoky non-alcoholic spirit. Fizzy club soda adds just the right amount of lift. It’s bold and refreshing, with layers of flavor that make it feel special without being too fancy. Great for cool evenings, family gatherings, or any time you want a seasonal drink that’s alcohol-free but still full of character.
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Tasting Notes
The Smoky Apple Cider Paloma Mocktail is a vibrant, booze-free beverage that layers sweet, tart, and spiced notes into one crisp, complex sip. Apple cider provides a smooth, orchard-fresh base, while apple cider vinegar adds tangy sharpness. Lime juice brightens the mix, and a cinnamon-honey syrup offers warm sweetness. Topped with ginger beer for a spicy sparkle, this mocktail delivers a well-rounded profile with depth and texture. Garnished with sugared rosemary and crisp apple slices, it’s equal parts refreshing and cozy—perfect for sipping on a crisp autumn afternoon or impressing guests with a spirit-free seasonal drink.
Equipment and Glassware
This mocktail is simple to build but benefits from a few key tools. Use a jigger or measuring spoons to get accurate proportions of juice, syrup, and vinegar. A cocktail shaker is optional but useful if you prefer to pre-mix and chill the ingredients before topping with ginger beer. A bar spoon is handy for gently stirring, especially when layering carbonation. Serve it in a rocks glass, highball, or stemless wine glass filled with ice. A garnish skewer or mini clothespin helps display sugared rosemary or apple slices in a polished presentation.
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz apple cider
- 0.5 oz apple cider vinegar
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1.25 oz cinnamon-honey syrup
- Ginger beer (to top)
- Apple slices, for garnish
- Rosemary, for garnish
Instructions
- Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and cinnamon-honey syrup. Shake for 10–15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Pour ginger beer over the mixture to fill the glass.
- Garnish: Add apple slices and a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant finish.
Pro Tips
- Make your own cinnamon-honey syrup by simmering equal parts honey and water with a cinnamon stick until fragrant.
- For a smoky twist, smoke the glass with a cinnamon stick before serving or add a dash of smoked salt.
- Use fresh-pressed apple cider for the best body and flavor, and chill all your ingredients in advance to keep the drink crisp.
- Sugared rosemary is easy to make—brush rosemary with simple syrup and roll in sugar before letting it dry for a sparkling finish.
When to Serve
This mocktail is perfect for autumn events, holiday dinners, or non-alcoholic entertaining. Its warming spices and bright acidity make it a great pairing with savory fall dishes or desserts like apple pie and ginger cookies. Serve it at Thanksgiving, friendsgiving, baby showers, or any occasion where a beautiful, spirit-free option is needed. It’s especially great for brunches, outdoor gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Which Brands or Ingredients to Use
- Use a high-quality, unfiltered apple cider (like from a local orchard or Martinelli’s) for a rich base.
- For vinegar, Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar provides reliable tang.
- Choose a spicy, natural ginger beer such as Fever-Tree, Reed’s, or Bundaberg for a lively fizz.
- Make your own cinnamon-honey syrup for best flavor, or buy artisanal versions from brands like Yes Cocktail Co. or Runamok.
- Use fresh lime juice and organic rosemary for garnish.
Similar Cocktails
- Apple Ginger Fizz Mocktail
- Apple Cider Mule Mocktail
- Festive Thanksgiving Punch Mocktail
- Tropical Kiwi Fizz Mocktail
- Lemon Thyme Mocktail
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz apple cider
- 0.5 oz apple cider vinegar
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1.25 oz cinnamon-honey syrup
- Ginger beer to top
- Apple slices for garnish
- Rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, and cinnamon-honey syrup. Shake for 10–15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain: Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top: Pour ginger beer over the mixture to fill the glass.
- Garnish: Add apple slices and a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- To sugar rosemary, brush sprigs with water, roll in granulated sugar, and let dry for a frosty effect.
- Use unfiltered apple cider for a richer, more rustic flavor.
- Add a pinch of smoked salt or a cinnamon stick for added depth and aroma.
