Armen's Barrels / Recipes / Cider Spice
Vodka Cocktail

Cider Spice

Autumn in a glass. Warm spice, cold pour.

Time4 min
Serves1
MethodStir over ice
GlassRocks Glass or Copper Mug
LevelEasy

Base spirit: FLORENA Cinnamon Vodka

Ingredients
  • 1 oz FLORENA Cinnamon Vodka
  • 1 oz Captain Morgan Spiced Rum
  • 2 oz Fresh apple cider (not apple juice — pressed cider)
  • 0.5 oz Agave nectar
  • 0.5 oz Lime juice, freshly squeezed

How to Make It

01

Fill with ice

Fill a rocks glass or copper mug with ice. If you have it, use a single large cube — it melts more slowly and keeps the drink colder longer without over-diluting.

02

Build over ice

Pour FLORENA Cinnamon Vodka, Captain Morgan, apple cider, agave nectar, and fresh lime juice directly over the ice.

03

Stir gently

Use a bar spoon to stir 8–10 times, integrating all the ingredients. Avoid over-stirring — this drink should feel fresh and slightly lively, not fully blended.

04

Garnish

A thin apple fan, a cinnamon stick, or a lime wheel. A light dusting of ground cinnamon across the surface adds aroma that makes the first sip more complex.

Bartender Notes

Apple cider, not juice

Pressed apple cider (the unfiltered, cloudy kind sold at farm markets and good grocery stores) has acidity and tannin that apple juice lacks. The difference in this drink is significant.

Spice layering

The cinnamon vodka and spiced rum stack cinnamon from two directions — one clean and neutral, one with molasses and rum warmth. They're complementary, not redundant.

Seasonal variation

This works equally well hot: pour everything (omit ice) into a mug and gently heat. Top with a cinnamon stick and a slice of apple.