It’s nearly the holidays and this cocktail made me think of you. If you’re looking for something different to serve your bourbon loving holiday guests, this cocktail’s got your back. It has the depth of a manhattan, but, smells and tastes of fall. It’s the combination of the spiced rum and apple cider. I know I say this every time, but, this IS my current favorite.
Make the cherry falernum ahead of time. It will make enough to serve all your holiday guests. My friend, Jessie Poole, who developed this recipe, is a master at giving holiday guests full autonomy – even if they possess few mixology skills. Her secret is to set up a makeshift bar with the recipe, labeled and prepared cherry falernum, and four remaining ingredients at the ready: your choice of spirits – bourbon, rye, rum or brandy, Orasella cherries, bitters, and apple cider. Let guests have at it. It gives you more time to enjoy, less time to fuss. Happy holidays, friends.
Apple Cider Spiced Stone Fence
Makes 1 serving
3/4 oz cherry falernum*
2 oz spirits: your choice bourbon, rye, rum or brandy
2 strong dashes angostura or aromatic bitters
3oz apple cider
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail glass filled with ice. Stir. Garnish with an Orasella cherry.
Cherry Falernum
8 oz gold or amber rum
1/2 t ground nutmeg
1/4 c almonds, walnuts or hazelnuts (your choice) lightly toasted until fragrant, then finely chopped
4 whole cloves
4 whole star anise
4 orasella cherries
Zest of 3 limes
Combine all ingredients in a non-reactive container. Give it a good shake and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, lined with a coffee filter or 2-3 layers of cheesecloth. Set aside and prepare the syrup below.
1 c brown sugar
1/2 c honey
1 c water
Combine all ingredients in a small sauce pan over medium heat until dissolved. Pour into a 1 quart jar and top with the infused rum. Allow to cool before use. Can be refrigerated up to 2 weeks.