Applejack Zing

Highballs & Collinses • December 16, 2025

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A photo of the Applejack Zing cocktail containing Laird's Straight Apple Brandy 100 Proof Bottled In Bond, Freshly squeezed lime juice, Angostura Aromatic Bitters, Three Cents Ginger Beer in a Collins.

Curiada Ingredients

1.50 fl oz Laird's Straight Apple Brandy 100 Proof Bottled In Bond or alternative
3.00 dash Angostura Aromatic Bitters or alternative

Other Ingredients

0.50 fl oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
3.50 fl oz Three Cents Ginger Beer

Directions

Add ice to shaker
Add first three ingredients to shaker
Shake well with ice
Fill Collins glass with ice
Strain mixture into ice-filled Collins glass
Top with ginger beer
Stir lightly
Garnish with lime or apple wedge

Cocktail Description

The Applejack Zing delivers a perfect balance of American heritage spirit and zingy refreshment that wakes up your palate with its bright, spicy kick.

This cocktail showcases Laird's Straight Applejack 86, America's oldest native spirit, complemented by the sharp citrus notes of fresh lime juice and the complex spice of Angostura bitters. The Three Cents Ginger Beer adds effervescence and a warming spice that amplifies the apple brandy's natural fruit character. Relatively simple to make with just a quick shake and build method, this drink requires minimal bartending skills but delivers impressive results. The Applejack Zing works beautifully as a fall afternoon refresher or as a pre-dinner cocktail that won't overwhelm the palate. Its crisp apple notes and spicy ginger profile make it an excellent companion to roasted pork dishes, sharp cheeses, or spicy Asian cuisine where the cooling elements of the drink balance heat from the food.