Stone Fence

If autumn were a drink, it would be apple cider. This favorite fall beverage pops up each year as the weather begins to cool, satisfying crowds with its delicious combination of sweet, tart and spice. You can enjoy it on its own, of course, but should you desire a higher octane serving, you can blast it with a dose of liquor.

The Stone Fence Cocktail is a simple mix of apple cider, Angostura bitters and the spirit of your choice. American whiskeys like bourbon and rye are natural pairings with cider, lending notes of vanilla, caramel and baking spices to the concoction. Rum is another fine choice, and depending which rum you choose, you can infuse the drink with rich sweetness or dry, grassy notes. Then there’s brandy, a versatile spirit that brings extra fruit and oak; choose apple brandy to double down on the apple flavors.

The Stone Fence proves that cocktails don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. The spirit, apple cider and bitters trio yields a superbly flavorful autumnal cocktail. The best part: This drink is exceedingly easy to make. Build it straight in your glass with a generous helping of ice, then place a mint sprig on top for additional aromatics with each sip. Do that, and you’ve got everything you need for a refreshing fall drink, whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering, toting a thermos to a harvest festival or watching football on your couch.