Warm winter spices like cinnamon and whole allspice give this cocktail a seasonal spin. We also add green apple for a subtle tart-sweet note. Look for bottled ginger beer such as the Ginger People or Reed’s; ginger ale is too sweet and won’t have enough kick. Ginger beer is also usually nonalcoholic; just omit the gin for a nonalcoholic beverage. Vodka or bourbon would also be delicious if you’re not a fan of gin.
How to Make It
Combine cider, 1/2 cup chopped apple, 1 cinnamon stick, allspice and ginger in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let stand 1 hour. Strain and chill at least 2 hours. Stir in gin and vinegar.
Divide ginger beer evenly among 4, ice-filled copper mugs. Add 1/2 of cider mixture to an ice-filled cocktail shaker; shake vigorously until thoroughly chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain evenly into 2 mugs and garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Repeat with remaining cider mixture, apple slices and cinnamon.