Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
Applejack is known for its smooth, fruity flavor, which is dominated by the natural sweetness of apples. The flavor can range from fresh, crisp apple notes to deeper, more caramelized flavors with hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and oak, particularly in aged expressions. While traditionally made at higher proofs, Applejack offers a warm, rich texture that is both apple-forward and slightly spicy, making it perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails.
Which Applejack Should I Try First?
If you're new to Applejack, start with Laird's Applejack, one of the oldest and most well-known producers of this spirit. Laird's Old Apple Brandy offers a balanced profile with smooth apple sweetness and hints of oak and spice. For something with a bit more depth, try Laird's 12 Year Old Apple Brandy, which is aged and offers a more refined, rich apple flavor with deeper notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. Applejack from New Jersey or Harter’s Applejack can also provide a unique, local twist on this classic spirit.
How Should I Drink Applejack?
Applejack can be enjoyed in several ways:
- Neat: Serve Applejack at room temperature in a small glass to savor its fruity, warm flavors.
- On the Rocks: Applejack is refreshing over ice, allowing the flavors to mellow slightly and providing a smooth sipping experience.
- In Cocktails: Applejack is versatile in cocktails. It’s most famously used in the Jack Rose, where it’s combined with grenadine and lemon juice, or in a Cider & Applejack cocktail with hard cider and a touch of spice. You can also mix it into a Hot Applejack Toddy for a warming winter drink.
What Foods Pair Well with Applejack?
Applejack’s apple-forward flavors make it an excellent companion for a variety of foods:
- Grilled Meats: Pair Applejack with grilled pork, chicken, or barbecue for a contrast between the sweet, fruity spirit and the savory, smoky flavors of the meat.
- Cheese: Aged cheeses like brie, cheddar, and gouda pair beautifully with Applejack, balancing its sweetness with the cheese’s richness.
- Apple-Based Dishes: Complement the apple flavors of the spirit with dishes like apple pie, apple-cranberry salad, or caramelized apple tarts, where the flavors of the dish and spirit enhance one another.
- Spicy Dishes: The warmth and fruitiness of Applejack work well with spicy foods, such as Indian curry or Mexican chili, where the spirit adds a nice contrast to the heat.
How Should I Store Applejack?
Applejack should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Like most spirits, keep the bottle upright to maintain the quality of the cork and the integrity of the liquid. Applejack does not require refrigeration and can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
Does Applejack Improve with Age?
Like most distilled spirits, Applejack does not significantly improve with age once bottled. However, aged expressions of Applejack, such as Laird’s 12 Year Old Apple Brandy, offer more complexity and a smoother profile due to their extended time in barrels. The aging process allows the spirit to develop deeper flavors of oak, vanilla, and caramel, making them perfect for sipping.
Explore our Applejack collection and discover the rich, apple-forward flavors of this iconic American spirit. Whether you’re enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Applejack offers a smooth and distinctive drinking experience that brings warmth and complexity to any occasion.
