Hudson Valley Spirits: Apple Cider Old Fashioned

It’s been a while since our last cocktail post so today we’re sharing a recipe perfect for a holiday celebration.  Using local spirits from Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery, we made a very delicious version of an old-fashioned with apple cider.

We used Tuthilltown’s most popular spirit, Hudson Baby Bourbon, for this cocktail.  The barrel aging process gives this bourbon a light sweetness and deep amber color. This 100% corn bourbon has a bright, defined taste and a warm finish with notes of marzipan and roasted corn. Bourbon lovers will not be disappointed and may choose to enjoy it this spirit straight or on the rocks…or try the recipe below!

Apple Cider Old-Fashioned

2 ounces Hudson Baby Bourbon
2 ounces of apple cider
1 teaspoon of orange simple syrup
Dash of bitters
Apple slices for garnish
Orange slices for garnish
Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Before making our cocktail, we need to make orange simple syrup:

Simple Syrup

1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
Orange peel

Combine the sugar and water is saucepan over medium heat until sugar is completely dissolved and the edges of the liquid begin to simmer. Immediately remove from heat. Pour into jar to cool and stir in orange peel for flavor. Cover the jar with lid while steeping. Once the simple syrup is cool, remove the orange peel. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Now it’s time to make our cocktail! First,combine the the bourbon and apple cider in a glass over ice – or your could make a whole pitcher like we did!  Add in the simple syrup and a dash of bitters. Garnish each glass with apple slices, orange slices and cinnamon sticks.  Enjoy!