An applejack and cinnamon-spiked Manhattan variant, this is a great drink to ease you from late autumn and into the Christmas period.
Applejack is a delightful spirit derived from cider. Historically it was made through the process of 'freeze distilling' or 'jacking' which occurred when the cider made after the autumn harvest was left outside as temperatures began to fall. Because of its (relatively) low proof, the water would freeze and when the ice was scooped out, the remaining alcohol had been 'jacked up' to a higher proof. After a few days of cold weather, your less than 10% ABV cider could easily hit 30-40% ABV.
Fortunately, applejack is now produced commercially by blending apple brandy and neutral spirits, although some 'traditional' styles can still be found in the USA
