Apple Cider Mule

As we embrace sweater weather, we begin to look for cocktail recipes that will reflect and complement the cooler temperatures without necessarily having to be “mulled” or served warm. This simple cocktail recipe is not only fire pit and tailgate friendly, it also helps illustrate the seasonal adaptability of ginger beer. It has gained popularity over the last few years with the rise of the vodka-based Moscow Mule as a summer staple, and this apple cider version is the autumn counterpart to that beverage. Both versions are refreshing, with a hint of spice and heat from the ginger beer, and offer a non-fussy sipping cocktail that is tasty without being overly sweet.

This recipe features gin as the spirit of choice, which actually plays perfectly off of the spice and sugar notes from the soda and cider. Of course vodka would work just as well, making it an even closer cousin to the Moscow Mule, but if you’re looking for a more complex flavor profile, gin is the way to go.

If this recipe formula seems familiar, that’s no mistake. The “Alcohol of Choice+Juice/Mixer+Ginger Beer” formula has been very good to us over the years. This Gin+Apple Cider+Ginger Beer iteration is the third in that series after the Paloma Packmule (tequila, grapefruit juice, ginger beer) and our Hard Cider Dark & Stormy (dark rum, hard cider, ginger beer). As you can see—or taste—you really can’t go wrong. We wouldn’t even be mad at a bourbon version of any of the above cocktails.

This is perfect early autumn fare for any gathering. Chock full of fall flavors, it’s a great way to toast the season and segue into winter, at which point, you can break out the crock pot for another batch of Autumn Squash Mulled Wine. However you choose to raise a glass throughout the year, know that we’ve got you covered. Cheers!