When the air turns crisp, and leaves crunch underfoot, there’s no better way to embrace the flavors of fall than with a warm, bourbon-infused apple cider.

This classic pairing of rich, spiced cider and bold whiskey isn’t just a treat for the senses—it’s a nod to history, tradition, and the art of craft distilling. Today, we’ll explore the origins of this fall favorite, how to make your own apple cider from scratch, and the perfect way to elevate it with Lux Row Distillers bourbons.

The History of Apple Cider

Cider is one of the oldest known beverages in the world, with its origins tracing back thousands of years.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the Celts were crafting cider as early as 3000 B.C., using fermentation techniques to transform crabapples into a drinkable form. The first documented mention of cider came in 55 BCE during Julius Caesar’s initial invasion of Britain.

There, he encountered the native Celts fermenting crabapples to create their cider. This discovery accompanied Caesar’s retreating forces back to continental Europe, spreading the knowledge of cider-making across the region.

Apple cider has long been a hallmark of fall festivities in the United States, dating back to colonial times when apple orchards dotted the countryside.

The combination of cider and bourbon is a natural evolution of these two autumn traditions. Cider’s sweetness balances bourbon’s bold, oaky character, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove enhance the flavors of both.

Over time, this cozy cocktail has become synonymous with fall, offering a sip of history in every glass.

Read: How Bourbon Became America’s Spirit

How to Make Your Own Apple Cider

While store-bought cider works just fine, there’s something magical about creating your own from scratch.

Homemade cider is fresher and more flavorful, and you can control the sweetness and spice.

Homemade Apple Cider Recipe

Ingredients

• 10-12 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Gala)
• 1 orange, quartered (optional)
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 gallon water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Wash and quarter the apples (no need to peel or core).
2. In a large stockpot, combine apples, orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and nutmeg. Cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Use a potato masher to crush the softened apples and orange. Simmer for another hour.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
6. Stir in brown sugar to sweeten, adjusting to taste. Serve warm or let cool and refrigerate.

Bourbon-Infused Apple Cider

Now that you have your cider, it’s time to take it up a notch with bourbon whiskey.

Ezra Brooks 99 delivers a smooth, caramel-rich profile, while Rebel 100 adds a touch of vanilla and spice. For those who crave a bolder flavor, the rye versions (Ezra Brooks 99 Straight Rye Whiskey or Rebel 100 Proof Straight Rye Whiskey) of these bourbons bring a delightful spiciness to the mix.

Bourbon Apple Cider Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup homemade (or store-bought) apple cider
• 1.5 oz Ezra Brooks 99, Rebel 100, or their Rye versions
• 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Orange slice or apple wedge (optional garnish)
• Whipped cream and caramel drizzle (optional for a dessert-style drink)

Instructions

1. Warm the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat. Do not boil.
2. Pour the bourbon into a heatproof mug or glass.
3. Add the warm cider, stirring gently to combine.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice or apple wedge. For a sweet twist, top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the warmth of fall in every sip.

Read: How to Build the Perfect Bourbon Whiskey Collection at Home

Bourbon-infused apple cider is more than just a seasonal cocktail—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the flavors of autumn.

Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply savoring a quiet evening by the fire, this drink is sure to bring comfort and joy. With bourbons and ryes from Lux Row Distillers as your base, you’ll enjoy a perfectly balanced cocktail that warms both body and soul.

Cheers to fall, bourbon, and the simple pleasures of life.