Bourbon and whiskey are synonymous with American spirits.  While that may be true today, apple brandy is the original American product, dating back to colonial times. 

Lairds Apple Brandy

A technique called freeze distillation was used by farmers to preserve their apple harvest, albeit in liquid form.  The Laird family has been producing applejack in New Jersey since 1698, and eventually started to sell it commercially in 1780, America’s first commercial distillery.  Today, Laird & Co. is still family owned and are the backbone of the American craft spirit movement.

Their 4-year, 100 proof straight apple brandy is one of the more underrated bottles on our shelves, especially for its quality, price, and versatility.  It has baked apple flavors, combined with soft oak and vanilla, and a subtle tannic spice on the finish.  The flavors show beautifully in any drink that calls for whiskey, like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or a new favorite, Brooklyn. 

Luxardo Amaro Abano

 Right now, Luxardo’s Amaro Abano is a perfect substitute for Amer Picon in the Brooklyn, not only because Amer Picon is not available in the US, but its forward elements of cardamom, cinnamon, and orange peel that pairs with apples so seamlessly.  Find it on our shelves!

You can also substitute it in for brandy to put a Fall spin on the Sidecar or the New Orleans drink the Brandy Crusta, a close relative to a sidecar, but more booze!