Washington Apple Cocktail

The Washington Apple Cocktail is a crisp, fruit-forward drink that pairs the tart bite of apple liqueur with the bold character of Canadian whisky and the brightness of cranberry juice. Simple yet balanced, this cocktail can be served as either a shot or a full drink, making it versatile for parties or casual sipping. Its apple slice garnish adds a touch of freshness and seasonal flair. Sweet, tart, and smooth, the Washington Apple is a classic that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Tasting Notes

The Washington Apple Cocktail is crisp, tart, and smooth with a fruit-forward balance. Apple schnapps or liqueur provides bright sweetness and a juicy apple flavor, while cranberry juice adds a tart edge that keeps the drink refreshing. Canadian whisky brings depth, caramel notes, and a slightly spicy finish that grounds the fruitiness. Served chilled in a coupe or as a shot, this cocktail is light yet flavorful, making it both approachable and versatile. Garnished with a fresh apple slice, it has an inviting aroma and a clean finish, perfect for casual sipping or celebratory toasts.

Equipment and Glassware

This Washington Apple Cocktail requires only a few tools, making it easy to prepare. A cocktail shaker is essential for combining and chilling the whisky, apple liqueur, and cranberry juice. A strainer ensures a clean pour into the glass without excess ice. A jigger helps measure equal parts of each ingredient, keeping the balance of fruit and whisky consistent. For serving, a coupe glass works well for a polished look, while a shot glass makes it ideal for party-style enjoyment. A paring knife allows for slicing fresh apple garnish to rest on the rim or float in the glass.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce sour apple schnapps apple liqueur, or apple brandy
• 1 ounce fresh cranberry juice
• 1 ounce of your favorite Canadian whisky
• 1 apple slice to garnish

Instructions

• Combine the apple schnapps, liqueur, cranberry juice, and Canadian whisky into a chilled, ice-filled shaker
• Shake vigorously to thoroughly combine all ingredients
• Strain and pour into a coupe glass
• Garnish the rim with your apple slice

Pro Tips

• Use unsweetened cranberry juice for a sharper, cleaner flavor.
• Apple brandy creates a richer, less sweet variation.
• Chill glassware in advance for a crisper presentation.
• Slice apples thin to float neatly as garnish.
• Adjust proportions to suit your sweetness or tartness preference.
• For shots, prepare several at once in a shaker for consistency.
• Add a splash of club soda to make it a lighter, longer drink.

When to Serve

The Washington Apple Cocktail is versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Its crisp, fruit-forward flavors make it perfect for fall and winter gatherings, but it’s refreshing enough for year-round enjoyment. It works as a light pre-dinner drink, a party shot, or a polished cocktail served in a coupe. Its sweet-tart balance makes it approachable for both casual drinkers and whisky fans, pairing well with appetizers, cheese boards, or fruit-based desserts. Whether enjoyed at a lively gathering or a relaxed evening at home, this cocktail brings together fruit and whisky in a simple, satisfying way.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Canadian Whisky: Crown Royal, Canadian Club, or Forty Creek.
• Apple Liqueur/Schnapps: DeKuyper Sour Apple Pucker, Berentzen Apple Liqueur, or Calvados for a brandy variation.
• Cranberry Juice: Ocean Spray, Lakewood Organic, or R.W. Knudsen.
• Apples for Garnish: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for tartness and presentation.

Similar Cocktails

• Apple Cinnamon Whiskey Smash
• Apple Pie Martini
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• Nocino Sour
• Apple Cider Cable Car Cocktail