Apple cider and bourbon are familiar companions, but smoke gives this sour a more grown-up edge. The goal is not a campfire drink, but a balanced autumn cocktail with warmth, brightness, and oak.
Smoked Apple Cider Bourbon Sour
A fall bourbon sour with apple cider, lemon, maple, and a subtle smoke accent.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh apple cider
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz maple syrup
- 1 dash aromatic bitters
- Apple fan or lemon wheel, for garnish
Method
- Add bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice, maple syrup, and bitters to a shaker with ice.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Briefly smoke the filled glass with applewood or garnish with a smoked apple slice.
- Serve immediately.
Whiskey Scene Notes
Use a bourbon with oak, caramel, and moderate proof. If smoking the glass, keep it brief so the smoke frames the cider instead of overtaking it.
