As a passionate mixologist, I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with different alcohols and mixers. I’ve tried countless combinations and am thrilled to share the best alcohol to mix with apple cider.
Let’s dive into this flavorsome journey and uncover your new favorite cider cocktail blend!
Top 12 Best Alcohol To Mix With Apple Cider
12. Bourbon
Average Price: Roughly $15-$200 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 40-45%
Why We Like It:
Since bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels [1], it presents complex vanilla, caramel, and oak layers. The rich depth of dark spirits like bourbon is a perfect partner for a spiked apple cider like an Apple Bourbon Bellini.
Trying it out for the first time, the bourbon-spiked apple cider cocktail has a beautiful medley of sweet, tart, and smooth apple juice-like concoction that pleased my palate greatly.
11. Brandy – Calvados (Apple Brandy)
Average Price: Roughly $40-$75 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 40% – 45%
Why We Like It:
Dark spirits like Calvados [2] infuse a fine blend of apple and wood notes into the cider, creating an enhanced flavor profile that’s irresistibly delicious.
One of my personal favorite apple cider cocktails is the Calvados Hot Toddy, where the hot apple cider has a tantalizing hint of warmth and spice.
The hot apple cider drink has nice apple notes that linger on the taste buds and is ideal for winter season.
10. Cider Jack (Apple Liqueur)
Average Price: Roughly $12 – $25 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 15%
Why We Like It:
Imagine a fruit-packed cocktail bursting with apple goodness – that’s what you get when you blend spiked Cider Jack with apple cider.
Cider Jack Apple liqueur is a fantastic base for a Fall Harvest cocktail, providing a beautiful, fruit-forward concoction. Add lots of ice and garnish it with an apple slice to complete the vibe.
Read: How Long Do Cider Drinks Take To Deliver?
9. Cinnamon Schnapps
Average Price: Roughly $10 – $20 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 15 – 50%
Why We Like It:
The schnapps adds a lively and spicy kick, perfect for anyone seeking a warm concoction on a cold winter night.
The Cinnamon Toast Cocktail is an all-time favorite because the schnapps melds with the crisp sweetness of the cider. Sipping it hot is ideal, mainly because the spirit can bring warmth.
I especially love how it captures the cozy essence of the season, making a delightful treat that leaves a lasting impression.
8. Fireball Cinnamon Whisky
Average Price: Roughly $15-$25 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 33%
Why We Like It:
Fireball offers a sweet, fiery kick, creating a unique blend of flavors. If you add apple cider to whisky, the concoction gives the mixer an exciting kick, creating a fun, spicy, warming concoction for the fall season.
It is a great fall beverage, and you can try a different cinnamon whiskey and add some cinnamon sticks to elevate the booze.
7. Ginger Liqueur
Average Price: Roughly $20-$35 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 20-40%
Why We Like It:
I loved how the spicy bite of ginger shook up the tangy apple cider. The great thing about this pair is how the bold, zingy ginger liqueur [3] warms up and animates the whole concoction.
It’s a zesty combination that grabs your attention – a fun and flavorful change from your regular spiked apple cider. You can drink it hot, but try it cold with ginger beer or ginger ale but stir it well.
6. Hard Cider
Average Price: Roughly $10 – $15 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 4-6%
Why We Like It:
When I first tried mixing Hard Cider with apple cider, the apple flavor sensation caught me off-guard.
To prepare a big batch of Apple Pie Hard Cider Cocktail that you can store for the next party, blend vanilla vodka, whiskey, apples, lemon juice, and hard cider.
It’s like biting into a fresh apple pie minus the crumbly pie crust. Try the spirit hot and see the difference.
5. Honey Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $20-$40 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 35%-40%
Why We Like It:
Pairing Honey Whiskey with apples is simply delicious and unique. The smooth sweetness of the whiskey goes so well with the apple cider’s tangy flavor- the spirit drinks like apple juice but with a kick.
It’s like a fabulous party in your mouth with every sip, especially with the addition of cinnamon sticks and orange slices to the recipe. This whiskey drink is perfect for winter and fall.
4. Mezcal
Average Price: Roughly $30-$70
Alcohol Content: 40-50%
Why We Like It:
Have you ever tried a Smoky Apple Cider Mezcal Margarita? I did, and it was fantastic! The smoky taste of Mezcal mixes well with the spiked apple cider.
The smoky hints from the Mezcal and the sweet-tangy profile of the cider meshed beautifully. It’s like a fancy apple juice that is perfect for those who appreciate the depth and complexity of their drinks.
3. Rum
Dark Rum
Average Price: Roughly $15-$40
Alcohol Content: 35-40%
Why We Like It:
Rum Cider Cocktail was like a flavor journey, starting with the rum’s hint of warmth and ending on a crisp, sweet note from the cider.
Add ginger beer and apple juice to the recipe if you’re in the mood for a comforting cocktail.
Spiced Rum
Average Price: Roughly $15-$40
Alcohol Content: 35-40%
Why We Like It:
Spiced rums give mixed drinks a whole new different flavor. The spiced rum’s warmth make the apple cider pop. It’s a perfect blend, like a festive holiday drink.
“Spice it up: Rum’s charm brings cider’s delight to life.”
-Liquor Laboratory
It tastes like a joyous celebration in a glass that is best served cold.
2. Tequila
Average Price: Roughly $20-$50 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 35-40%
Why We Like It:
Tequila brings a bold twist, creating a delightful surprise in cocktails. Have you tried an Apple Spice Margarita?
The tequila adds a bold kick that goes well with the tangy taste of the cider. It’s a different twist on a classic margarita. If you want a fun and flavorful cocktail, fill the glasses with ice and serve it cold.
1. Vodka
Flavored
Average Price: Roughly $15-$30
Alcohol Content: 35-40%
Why We Like It:
The versatility of the vodka [4] makes it a fantastic base liquor. An Apple Cider Moscow Mule is an excellent showcase of this pair’s potential.
“Vodka is kind of a hobby.”
—Betty White, American Actress
The flavored vodka adds a special touch, blending perfectly with the crispness of the spiked apple cider. I tried it myself and loved how cold, refreshing, and enjoyable it was.
If you’re a fan of vodka cocktail recipes and want to add a splash of apple flavor, this cocktail is a must-have.
Regular
Average Price: Roughly $15-$30
Alcohol Content: 35-40%
Why We Like It:
The Apple Cider Margarita, made with regular tequila and apple cider, is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
I enjoyed the cold and vibrant combination of tequila’s boldness and spiked apple cider’s, natural sweetness.
FAQs
Is it okay to mix cider with wine?
Yes, it is okay to combine cider with wine. You can combine red wine, sparkling wine, or white wine with cider to serve cold spiked apple cider mimosas, sparkling apple cider, or sangria.
Does apple cider help with alcohol?
No, apple cider does not directly impact alcohol’s effects. However, consuming apple cider alongside alcohol may provide a refreshing and enjoyable taste experience.
Is alcoholic apple cider good?
Yes, alcoholic apple cider can be a delightful beverage for those who appreciate its unique flavor. The alcohol content adds a subtle kick, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
What kind of bourbon is best for mixing with apple cider?
Any type of bourbon can work well with apple cider, but a smoother, sweeter bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes can complement the apple flavors nicely.
Can I mix rum with apple cider?
Yes, rum is a great choice for mixing with apple cider. Spiced rum or dark rum can add warmth and depth to the cider, while white rum can provide a lighter and more refreshing option.
Is vodka a good choice for mixing with apple cider?
Yes, vodka is a versatile option for mixing with apple cider. It allows the apple cider flavors to shine while adding a subtle kick of alcohol.
What type of whiskey pairs well with apple cider?
Both bourbon and rye whiskey pair well with apple cider. Bourbon adds sweetness and depth, while rye whiskey provides a spicier and more robust flavor profile.
Are there any flavored liqueurs that complement apple cider?
Yes, flavored liqueurs such as cinnamon schnapps or apple liqueur can enhance the apple flavor in cider-based cocktails. They add sweetness and depth to the drink.
Are there any non-alcoholic options for mixing with apple cider?
Yes, you can mix apple cider with sparkling water, ginger ale, or lemon-lime soda for a non-alcoholic option. These beverages add fizziness and sweetness to the cider without the alcohol.
In Conclusion
Through personal exploration and experimentation, I’ve discovered the goodness in combining bourbon, hard cider, or whiskey with apple cider.
When it comes to the best spirit to mix with apple cider, the options are plentiful, but my top pick for making recipes is vodka. A splash of vodka makes a delicious tangy that hits all the right notes.
References:
- https://www.cnbc.com/2015/06/04/5-rules-that-make-it-bourbon.html
- https://www.businessinsider.com/calvados-vs-cognac-what-it-is-how-to-drink-it-2018-11
- https://www.seriouseats.com/diy-ginger-liqueur-make-your-own-canton
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/vodka
