As the weather starts to cool and magazines fill their covers with cozy braise and soup recipes, it’s a clear indication that apple season is in full swing. During the autumn months, apples take center stage in a variety of delicious desserts such as cakes, galettes, pies, and even cocktails like apple cider and bourbon. The bold flavors of dark spirits like whiskey and rum perfectly complement the crisp taste of apples, leading mixologists and spirit brands to create beverages that combine these complementary flavors. Apple whiskey has become increasingly popular and can now be found in the flavored spirit section of your local liquor store, offering a simple way to infuse the refreshing taste of autumn into your drinks.

The world of bottled whiskey offers a wide range of apple-infused options, each with its own level of sweetness and a unique method for infusing that fruity essence into the product. These apple whiskies cover a spectrum of flavors, from the tangy zest of green apples to the sweet caramel notes of caramel apples, and even the warm spiciness reminiscent of apple pie. This diverse range of flavors provides enthusiasts with a multitude of choices to explore and enjoy.

Every distiller has its own distinctive approach to flavoring whiskey, but one common technique involves adding sugar to enhance and balance the flavors. In the lower price range, you may come across whiskeys that utilize artificial apple flavors, similar to the sweetness found in Jolly Rancher candy. These options tend to be very sweet and are often better suited as a sugary element in cocktails rather than for sipping over ice. The actual whiskey flavors can be somewhat concealed in sweeter bottles, making them taste more akin to a high-proof apple liqueur.

Other distillers choose to use fresh apple juice or apples infused with a subtle amount of sugar. These apples are then aged alongside the whiskey to create a unique product. These spirits fall into the mid-sweet category, boasting the fresh and vibrant flavors of green or red apples. Ideal for both cocktails and sipping, these versions allow the distinct flavors of the whiskey to shine through, providing a well-balanced and refreshing taste.

It’s important to note that apple brandy, sometimes referred to as applejack, differs from apple whiskey. Apple brandy is produced through the distillation of apple juice or cider and remains unsweetened, without any blending with whiskey. The apple flavor becomes more subdued as it ages due to the heat of the alcohol during the distillation process. This results in a taste that is quite different from the sweet, apple-forward profile of apple whiskey.

Apple whiskey is an excellent choice for crafting cocktails. By using it as a substitute for traditional whiskey in classic drinks such as the old fashioned or hot toddy, you can create a version with the crisp flavors of fall. The natural sweetness of apple whiskey can even replace some of the sugar typically used in these recipes, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste. Apple whiskey also adds a delightful twist to a classic whiskey sour. For inspiration, check out the website of your favorite apple whiskey maker, where mixologists often share specialty drink recipes.

Apple whiskey also proves to be a valuable companion in the kitchen. A splash of it can enhance the flavors of a reduction sauce for grilled chicken or pork dishes. It can also be used to create a flavorful whiskey-based glaze for barbecued foods. When preparing fall-inspired treats like bread pudding or apple pie, simply toss the apples with a touch of apple whiskey to add depth to the flavors. You can even use a splash of apple whiskey to infuse an apple note into whipped cream for a delicious topping on your baked goods.

So, think of apple whiskey as your fall flavor companion. By adding whiskey-soaked apple flavors not just to your glass, but also into your sweet and savory recipes, you can truly embrace the essence of autumn.