December is a time to remember and reflect on the year’s truths and triumphs as well as trials and tribulations.  We feel this cocktail not only fits the time of year but also the rollercoaster of a year it has been- taking us on a journey of soft hints of apple that play over the stronger nose of cranberry with softer oak and spice notes carried by the bourbon base or soft juniper replacing the spice with a gin base.  We’re finding the profile of this drink is representative of a well balanced combination of the bourbon's soft spice and oak, balancing the fruity tones from the brandy and apples with a tart kick from the cranberry. 

Quick side note, although the recipe calls for Bourbon, we find when swapped with Gin the more botanical driven elements emerge.  We wanted to showcase how versatile a cocktail can be and how a simple switch can turn the taste profile completely around and deliver a surprise without needing to reinvent the wheel.

Ingredients:

2 oz Caprock Gin or Elijah Craig Bourbon,

1 oz Apple Brandy (Lairds Applejack),

3/4 oz Cranberry juice, 

3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice,

1/4 Oz Simple Syrup,

2-3 slices of apple, 

4-5 cranberries (cranberries for garnish)

Ice

Directions:

1. In a sturdy glass muddle the apple and cranberries. 
2. Add Bourbon (Or Gin), Apple Brandy, Cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the glass. 
3. Fill glass with ice, and stir for 15-20 seconds to chill and combine
4. Strain into a serving glass, and garnish with a few cranberries.

When finished, your cocktail should be a soft pink with orange hues if bourbon is used. The Two Way Cranberry Apple Smash should taste soft and tart with a gentle warming spice on the bourbon or tantalizing juniper from the Gin.  Enjoy this robust bourbon and flavorful cocktail with a harmonious blend of fruity spice and tart sweetness.