Red Appletini
A vibrant and flavorful cocktail that stands as a significant precursor to the ubiquitous green Appletini. Its unique composition of Canadian whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice creates a harmonious balance of sweet, tart, and warming spice.
22%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
History & Heritage
“The Red Appletini, more formally known as the Washington Apple, emerged in the late 1980s as a Canadian whisky-based cocktail. Its creation is attributed to Christof Guycoogan (though this story may be apocryphal), who reportedly created it during a pest infestation that affected Washington state apple orchards. The cocktail gained popularity throughout the 1990s and served as a precursor to the vodka-based green Appletini invented in 1996. It represents a bridge between simpler highballs and the 'tini' craze that followed.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes
Combine Canadian whisky, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice in a cocktail shaker
Fill the shaker three-quarters full with high-quality ice cubes
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is well-frosted
Double-strain through a Hawthorne strainer and fine-mesh strainer into the chilled glass
Garnish with a thin slice of red apple, fanned and floated on the surface
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe or martini glass
Garnish
Cut a thin, vertical slice from center of fresh red apple, brush with lemon juice to prevent browning
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use Crown Royal or Canadian Club for authentic flavor
Maintain the 2:1:1 ratio for proper balance
Prepare apple garnish just before serving to prevent browning
Double-strain to ensure silky texture
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Red Appletini.
Equal Parts
Equal parts of all three ingredients for a sweeter profile
Changes
Whisky-Forward
Higher proportion of whisky for a stronger, more complex drink
Changes
Crown Royal Apple Version
Uses Crown Royal Regal Apple for enhanced apple flavor
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Cape Codder
Vodka and cranberry juice built over ice for a tart, refreshing highball.
Baby Woo Woo
A shot‑size Woo Woo—vodka and peach schnapps shaken with cranberry for a tart, fruity shooter.
Cuddles on the Beach
The most widely recognized non-alcoholic interpretation of the famed Sex on the Beach cocktail, capturing the original's vibrant, fruity essence.