Fresh, crisp apple cider takes on a grown-up twist in this simple fall-favourite cocktail. With just a few ingredients, this cocktail whips up quickly for a cozy night by the fire place, or the next fall weekend at the cottage, or your Sunday afternoon football game, or Thanksgiving celebration!

BOURBON APPLE CIDER COCKTAILS

Time: 5 minutes Yield: 2 cocktails

INGREDIENTS

1 Tbsp granulated sugar

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 wedge of lemon

6 oz (3/4 cup) apple cider, chilled

4 oz (1/2 cup) bourbon

1 oz (2 Tbsp) fresh lemon juice

4 oz (1/2 cup) ginger beer

2 thin slices from an apple, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

On a small, flat plate combine the sugar and cinnamon. Rub the cut side of the lemon slice along the rim of 2 wine or highball glasses to moisten. Dip the rim of the glasses in the cinnamon sugar to coat.

Fill a cocktail shaker half way with ice. Add the apple cider, bourbon and lemon juice; shake until well chilled. Strain and divide the cocktail between the two glasses. Add half of the ginger beer (2oz/ 1/4 cup) to each glass and briefly stir to mix. Garnish with apple slices.

SERVING SUGGESTION

Smokey, salty things will both match and contrast beautifully with the sweet and smokey flavours of this drink. A board with an aged cheddar, smoked nuts and prosciutto would be the perfect cocktail hour compliment.