Apple Cider Gin Spritz
why you’ll love this apple cider gin spritz
It’s light, crisp, and refreshing! This drink celebrates apple season with the sweet, tart, and juiciness of apple cider, while the herbaceous qualities of the gin give this spritz a festive flare.
It’s a perfect option to serve at Thanksgiving to balance the heaviness of the typical Thanksgiving meal, but is great for any fall gatherings with friends. The alcohol content in this drink is lower than most cocktails because the champagne is diluted with non-alcoholic apple cider, and only a small amount of gin is added for flavor, so it won’t make you sleepy if you plan to have multiple throughout the evening.
what is a spritz?
A spritz is a wine-based cocktail, usually made with Prosecco, bitters, and soda water. This recipe strays from that formula but has similar components and results in an equally delightful and refreshing drink.
ingredients
KORBEL BRUT CHAMPAGNE
very affordable for Champagne ($10-$15)
it is crisp and slightly sweet which enhances the apple flavor
‘brut’ means ‘dry’, so if you don’t purchase this exact Champagne, look for another dry option. The dry quality balances the juiciness of the apple cider and compliments the botanicals in the gin.
similarly, you can substitute a dry Prosecco
APPLE CIDER
tart and sweet with warm spices
look for something local, freshly made, or that isn’t overly sweet (still has a fresh/crisp/tart flavor)
STILL AUSTIN AMERICAN GIN
feel free to use your favorite gin, but this one has become a new favorite and is especially great for this recipe. A dry, London gin will have a different flavor profile, so keep that in mind.
some of main notes are juniper, citrus, and cinnamon. The botanical flavors are very present, so just a little bit adds a lot of depth and interest to this cocktail.
a quick note about health and alcohol
I started this blog to document the way I eat to encourage health and healing, but I do still enjoy alcohol. I fully realize that it is not health-promoting or beneficial to autoimmune conditions. That being said, my condition is not severe and I’ve personally decided that it’s worth it to me at this point in time to include in my life. I say this because it’s a completely personal decision and though I am comfortable with the consequences (and am continuously working to be more mindful and sparing with my intake), you may not be, and I in no way want to encourage something that derails your health and healing journey! I hope to create mocktail recipes in the future!
CHEERS!
THE RECIPE
Apple Cider Gin Spritz
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add ice to a wine glass or cocktail glass.
- Pour over the liquid ingredients and stir gently.
- Garnish with thin apple slices and a cinnamon stick.