Yes. Gently heat the apple cider reduction with the tequila and bitters without allowing it to boil, then serve the cocktail warm in a mug.

Tequila Cider Old Fashioned

Q: What is an apple cider old fashioned?

An apple cider old fashioned is a variation of the classic old fashioned sweetened with apple cider, usually reduced into a syrup for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor. This version uses SWOL Añejo tequila as the base spirit.

Q: Can I make an old fashioned with tequila and apple cider?

Yes. Añejo tequila works especially well because its oak and vanilla notes provide a similar richness to bourbon, while its natural agave sweetness pairs beautifully with apple cider.

Q: Do I have to reduce the cider?

Reducing the cider concentrates its apple flavor and sweetness without adding excess liquid to the cocktail. You can use apple cider straight from the bottle, but the drink will have a lighter and less concentrated flavor.

Q: What cider should I use?

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor. Avoid hard cider or clarified apple juice if you plan to make a cider reduction.

Q: How long does the cider reduction keep?

Store the apple cider reduction in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Q: Which bitters are best?

Angostura bitters are the classic choice for an apple cider old fashioned. Smoked cinnamon bitters add a bolder, more seasonal flavor profile.

An apple cider old fashioned takes the classic template and swaps in autumn's best sweetener: cider cooked down until it is thick and syrupy. This version builds it on SWOL Añejo tequila, whose oak and vanilla stand in for bourbon while agave sweetness plays into the apple. Reduce the cider until it lightly coats a spoon and you concentrate the flavor without watering the drink down. Angostura bitters ties it together, and an expressed orange peel lifts the whole thing. It is stirred over one big cube for a slow, spirit-forward fall sipper.

INGREDIENTS

2 oz SWOL Añejo Tequila, the aged, oaky base that replaces bourbon and pairs with apple.
0.5 oz apple cider reduction, fresh cider simmered until slightly syrupy for concentrated apple flavor and natural sweetness.
2 dashes Angostura bitters, for classic old fashioned spice and balance.
Orange peel, expressed over the drink and dropped in.
1 large ice cube, for slow dilution.

HOW TO PREPARE

Add the Añejo, cider reduction, and Angostura bitters to a mixing glass with ice.
Stir 20 to 30 seconds until chilled and lightly diluted.
Strain over one large cube in a rocks glass.
Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it in.

Style of Glass to use

Rocks Glass

Garnishes

Orange

How to make an apple cider reduction

Simmer fresh apple cider over medium heat until it reduces by half to two-thirds and lightly coats the back of a spoon, roughly 15 to 20 minutes for two cups down to about three-quarters of a cup. Use unfiltered fresh cider, not hard cider or clarified juice, for the fullest flavor. Cool it before using and store extra in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves while it reduces for a spiced version.

Stirring and dilution

Stir, do not shake, so the drink stays clear and silky. Twenty to thirty seconds chills it and adds just enough water to round the tequila and let the cider bloom. Serve over one large cube so it dilutes slowly instead of turning thin.

Variations, including a warm version

Try smoked cinnamon bitters for a bolder, campfire twist. Prefer the classic? Use the same cider reduction over bourbon. For a cold-night version, build it warm: gently heat the cider reduction with the Añejo and bitters, do not boil, and serve in a mug with an orange slice.

Batch it for fall gatherings

Make a large cider reduction ahead, then combine Añejo, reduction, bitters, and about 0.75 oz water per serving in a pitcher. Chill and pour over large cubes to order, garnishing each with orange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an apple cider old fashioned?

It is an old fashioned sweetened with apple cider, usually reduced to a syrup, for a warm, autumnal flavor. This version uses SWOL Añejo tequila as the base.

Can I make an old fashioned with tequila and apple cider?

Yes. Añejo tequila's oak and vanilla work like bourbon, and its agave sweetness complements the apple.

Do I have to reduce the cider?

Reducing concentrates the apple flavor and sweetness without watering down the drink. You can use cider straight, but the flavor will be lighter and thinner.

What cider should I use?

Fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Avoid hard cider or clarified apple juice for the reduction.

How long does the cider reduction keep?

Store it covered in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Which bitters are best?

Angostura is the classic. Smoked cinnamon bitters give a bolder, seasonal twist.

Can I serve it warm?

Yes. Gently heat the cider reduction with the tequila and bitters without boiling, and serve in a mug.