Since most ciders on the market are carbonated, they are ideal companions for effervescent cocktails. Standing in for other bubbly pours, like sparkling wine or club soda, cider adds its own unique identity, ranging from a yeasty hint in the aroma that echoes that found in many Champagnes to bright, green apple-like acidity that’s a natural complement to herbaceous spirits.
If your usual warm-weather go-to is a Vodka Collins or Tom Collins, give this tall, cool variation a spin. The initials in the drink name refer to the two key components that set this version apart: cucumber and cider! A crisp, bone-dry cider like Threadbare Cider and Mead’s Dry from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, lets the nuanced freshness of cucumber and fresh lime shine through with every sip.
C&C COLLINS
Makes 1 cocktail
4 thin slices cucumber
1 ounce vodka or gin
½ ounce simple syrup*
¾ ounce lime juice
6 ounces Threadbare Dry Cider, chilled
Place the cucumber slices in a Collins glass, and use a muddler or wooden spoon to gently press down to release juices from the cucumber. Scoop ice into the glass so it’s about half-full. Set the glass aside.
Combine vodka, simple syrup and lime juice in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into the prepared Collins glass. Top with cider, and stir briefly to combine. Serve with a straw.
*To make simple syrup, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from the heat and allow to cool. Makes about 1½ cups.
