John McKinnons Promise

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Alcoholic Cocktail Highball Glass 5 ingredients

Recipe

  • 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
  • 1 oz Apple flavored Brandy
  • 12-14 oz Cider
  • Sugar
  • Cherries

Instructions

The drink is named after the (late) poet John Mckinnon, whose reputation for the spontaneous composition of verse was dwarfed only by his rabid love for drinking until he collapsed or damaged property. At the old "Villager" cafe, in Bennignton, Vermont, there is a tradition that when someone orders a "John McKinnon" cocktail, the thrid one is always on the house, provided the patron drink it laying on the floor. An alternate tradition, also from southern Vermont, is that a person drinking a "John McKinnon" pretends to twist his or her ankle, or alternating, pours half the drink down their shirt and pretends to beg for change from members of the crowd.Add Bourbon and Brandy to a shaker half-filled with shaved ice and shake vigorously. Strain into highball glass. Sink the Sugar cube. Add three fingers of ice to cover Sugar cube and liquid. Slowly pour in hard Cider to top of glass. Float the Cherry on top.

About John McKinnons Promise

The John McKinnons Promise is a robust and inviting cocktail that embodies the essence of autumn with its rich and warming flavors. It features a base of 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey, which provides a strong and smooth foundation with notes of vanilla and caramel. The addition of 1 oz Apple-flavored Brandy introduces a fruity sweetness that complements the bourbon perfectly. This drink is rounded out with 12-14 oz of cider, which adds a crisp and refreshing element, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy complex yet balanced beverages. Sugar is used to enhance the sweetness, while cherries add a pop of color and a hint of tartness, making this drink as visually appealing as it is delicious.

The origins of the John McKinnons Promise are somewhat shrouded in mystery, with its name suggesting a personal story or commitment. It likely emerged from the tradition of combining whiskey with apple-based ingredients, a popular practice in regions where both are plentiful. This cocktail is a perfect example of how classic ingredients can be combined to create a modern drink that feels both timeless and innovative. Its name may evoke tales of promises made and kept, perhaps in a setting where such a drink would be a fitting companion to good conversation and camaraderie.

This cocktail is alcoholic, so drink responsibly! Best served in a Highball Glass, though any glass works!

Feel free to get creative with substitutions — try different fruit types, sugar substitutes, or liquor brands. Crafting cocktails should be fun!


Shopping List

This drink uses 5 core ingredients. Click any ingredient to find more drinks featuring it:

  1. Bourbon Whiskey
  2. Brandy
  3. Cider
  4. Sugar
  5. Cherries

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