As the holiday season twinkles into view, there's something magical about the combination of crisp, cold air and the warmth of a gathering around good food and drinks. And when it comes to drinks, why not add a splash of orchard-fresh flavor?

The Perfect Start: Classic Apple Cider Cocktail

Imagine this: a gathering of friends, laughter in the air, and in your hand, a glass of something extraordinary. Our Classic Apple Cider Cocktail is just the right mix of tradition and flair. Here's your secret recipe:

2 oz West Avenue Heritage Cider
1 oz bourbon or Canadian whisky
0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
A cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish
Ice

Mix the cider, bourbon, and lemon juice with ice, shake it up, and there you have it. The heritage cider's rich taste perfectly complements the smooth bourbon, creating a cocktail that's both invigorating and soothing.

A Toast to Tradition: Mulled Cider Mimosa

Next up, let's put a twist on a traditional favorite – the Mulled Cider Mimosa. This drink brings together the warmth of mulled spices with the celebratory spirit of a mimosa.

4 oz West Avenue Heritage Cider, mulled with cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel
2 oz sparkling wine
Orange twist for garnish

First, mull the cider with your favorite spices. Once it's infused and cooled, fill half of your flute with the mulled cider and top it with sparkling wine. Garnish with an orange twist. This cocktail is a perfect balance of spice and sparkle, ideal for toasting to the holiday spirit.

The Cozy Companion: Cider Hot Toddy

For those chilly Ontario nights, nothing beats a Cider Hot Toddy. It's like a warm hug in a mug!

4 oz West Avenue Heritage Cider, heated
1 oz dark rum or brandy
1 tablespoon honey
1 cinnamon stick and a lemon round for garnish

Heat the cider but don’t let it boil. Stir in the rum or brandy and honey until well mixed. Pour into a mug and garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon round. This drink is not just a cocktail; it's a comforting companion for those long winter nights.

A Festive Finale: The Orchard Bellini

And finally, for a light, effervescent option, try the Orchard Bellini. It's easy, elegant, and sure to impress your guests.

2 oz West Avenue Heritage Cider
2 oz peach nectar
2 oz Prosecco or sparkling wine
A sprig of thyme for garnish

Pour the peach nectar and cider into a chilled champagne flute. Top with Prosecco and garnish with a sprig of thyme. The result is a delightful drink that sparkles with the flavors of the orchard.

Bringing Cider Cocktails Home

As the holiday season wraps up and we bid farewell to another year of shared moments and cherished memories, it's moments like these – a toast among friends, a quiet evening by the fire, a family gathering – that truly define the spirit of the season. At West Avenue Cider, we're not just about crafting the finest cider; we're about creating those moments, one glass at a time.

Whether it's through the unique character of our heritage cider or the warm embrace of a cider-infused cocktail, we're here to add a touch of orchard magic to your holiday celebrations. So, here's to a holiday filled with joy, warmth, and the unforgettable taste of West Avenue Cider. Happy Holidays, and may your days be merry, bright, and filled with the best of cheers.