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The American Trilogy cocktail is a drink made from three (3) main ingredients created in the United States — whiskey, Apple Brandy and orange bitters. The main trio of whiskey, Apple Brandy — or Applejack as it’s more commonly known in the US — and bitters, takes center stage, and a hint of Demerara sugar balances the flavors.
Whiskey is often thought of as the true American spirit, but there are some who would argue that lesser-known apple brandy is the real original. Apple brandy has been wildly available in the United States since the 1800s but was one spirit that failed to make a mainstream comeback after prohibition was ended. Its mildly sweet and distinct apple flavor pairs perfectly with the rye and bitters in this drink, and it’s a great introduction to apple brandy if you have yet to try it.
Bar tools
- ROCKS GLASS
- STIRRING GLASS
- BARSPOON
- STRAINER
- PEELER
- MUDDLER
Ingredients
- 1 OZ. RYE WHISKEY (recommended: Templeton Rye 4 Year)
- 1 OZ. APPLE BRANDY (recommended: Laird’s Straight Apple Brandy Bottled In Bond)
- 2 DASHES ORANGE BITTERS (recommended: Reagan’s Orange Bitters)
- 1 DEMERARA SUGAR CUBE (4 grams)
- GARNISH: ORANGE PEEL
Preparation
Place the sugar cube in your stirring glass and add the bitters on top. Smash the sugar cube with a muddler or the back of a barspoon and muddle until the mixture becomes a paste. Add the rye and apple brandy and stir with ice until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube. Express the oils of the orange peel over the top of the drink and drop into the glass as garnish.
American Trilogy FAQs
Can I use bourbon instead of rye?
The spicy and dry notes of the rye are what counteracts the sweetness of the apple brandy in this cocktail, so using bourbon will yield a sweeter version of the cocktail.
Is there a substitute for apple brandy?
The French also make a fine apple brandy called Calvados. Calvados is substitutable here, however, it does not have the same bold flavor of American-made applejack, so the drink will taste slightly different.
Do I need to use Demerara sugar?
If you’re having difficulty finding Demerara sugar you can substitute a different sugar. Keep in mind that the raw and earthy flavors added by using Demerara sugar will be lost. Brown sugar would be the best substitute. However, in a pinch, white sugar will work as well.
Can I use sugar syrup instead?
Traditionally, the American Trilogy was meant to be made specifically with a sugar cube, but using a Demerara (or even regular white sugar) simple syrup would also work for this cocktail. Simply substitute 1/4 oz. of simple syrup for the sugar cube and you should attain the same balance of sweetness.
