The Down Easter

October 09, 2015

At the first signs of fall, we round up our friends and head north to a remote lake in the great state of Maine for a rejuvenating weekend of canoeing, fishing and hiking. Long, leisurely days spent outdoors inevitably lead to afternoon drinks dockside. Our vacation cocktail of choice? The Down Easter.

Warming bourbon and fresh apple cider come together in this simple yet delicious recipe from our book Shake: A New Perspective on Cocktails. One sip and you'll know fall has officially arrived.

The Down Easter
Makes two drinks

  • 3 shots bourbon
  • 2 shots apple cider syrup (see recipe below)
  • 1 shot fresh lemon juice
  • 2 strips orange zest (to garnish)
  1. Add the bourbon, apple cider syrup and lemon juice to the shaker.
  2. Add ice to above the level of the liquid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
  3. Strain mixture into coupes and garnish with strips of orange zest.

Apple Cider Syrup
Makes one cup

  • 4 cups fresh apple cider
  • 2 strips of orange zest
  1. Boil the apple cider and orange zest over high heat until reduced to about one cup of liquid.
  2. Strain and chill before using.