On my daily commute, every single day, I pass by the billboard for a product I've never tried. That simple yet elegant billboard features a waffle cone, and instead of a big scoop of ice cream on top, it's a bottle of Crown Royal Vanilla.
Now, I've always liked Crown Royal. My one reservation with trying the brand's vanilla whiskey was how not good the Crown Royal Maple was (too sweet for my taste; I like maple, but mostly on my pancakes). On the other hand, I enjoy vanilla in, well, everything. When the time came for my weekly liquor store inspiration hunt, I was quick to grab the new spirit.
Apple cider is one of the premier flavors of fall, and whiskey warms you up on a chilly night. But I thought the combo needed more. That little extra something comes in the form of what I had on hand, pinot grigio. (The dryness of the wine helps balance out the vanilla and cider's sweetness.) Throw 'em all together to make this week's tasty cocktail: vanilla whiskey apple cider.
Vanilla Whiskey Cider
Makes 1
2 ounces Crown Royal Vanilla
2 ounces apple cider
1 ounce dry white wine (I used pinot grigio)
Apple slice, for garnish
Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add all ingredients and shake until chilled. Fill a rocks glass with ice and strain in the cocktail. Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.
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