Hot Bourbon Cider

This delicious and warming beverage has been a staple at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery during the cold months. The rye spice of Belle Meade Bourbon provides structure and pairs well with the clove and allspice in the cider. Easily double or triple the recipe to serve friends!

Creator: Rachel Ramirez

2 oz Belle Meade Bourbon
4 oz spiced apple cider
.5 oz lemon juice
.25 oz honey simple (2:1 ratio raw honey to water)
.25 oz cinnamon simple syrup
2 dashes aromatic bitters
2 dashes black lemon bitters

For each serving, heat spiced cider, lemon juice, honey syrup and cinnamon syrup until piping hot but not boiling. Pour 2 ounces of Belle Meade Bourbon into a mug, add the cider mixture and bitters and stir to combine. Garnish the drink with a cinnamon stick or with a clove studded lemon slice.

For the spiced apple cider: simmer local apple cider with cloves and allspice. Let it simmer for a while to pick up all the flavors.

For the cinnamon simple syrup: combine one cup sugar, one cup water and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Bring to a simmer and stir periodically. As soon as it starts boiling, take it off the heat and continue stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Strain the cinnamon through cheesecloth.