The Washington Apple cocktail gets its name from the state of Washington, which is known for its apple orchards. The drink was created as a way to showcase the tart and crisp flavors of Washington apples, which were in high demand at the time.
In the late-1980s, Washington state experienced a devastating event that impacted its apple industry. A bug infestation swept through the orchards, causing significant damage to the apple crops. This led to a decrease in the availability of Washington apples and a rise in prices.
During this time, bartenders in Washington state were looking for a way to support the local apple industry and create a cocktail that highlighted the flavors of Washington apples. They came up with the idea of the Washington Apple cocktail, which quickly gained popularity.
The cocktail typically consists of equal parts Crown Royal whiskey, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice. The Crown Royal whiskey adds a smooth and rich flavor, while the sour apple schnapps provides a tart and crisp taste that resembles biting into a fresh Washington apple. The cranberry juice adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the tartness of the other ingredients.
The combination of these ingredients creates a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail that captures the essence of Washington apples. The name “Washington Apple” not only pays tribute to the state's apple industry but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the bartenders who created the drink during a challenging time.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of enjoying a Washington Apple cocktail on a visit to Washington state. The cocktail was served at a local bar, and I was immediately drawn to its vibrant red color and enticing aroma. With my first sip, I was greeted with a burst of tartness from the sour apple schnapps, followed by the smoothness of the Crown Royal whiskey. The cranberry juice added a hint of sweetness that balanced out the flavors perfectly. It was a truly delightful experience that showcased the flavors of Washington apples in a unique and enjoyable way.
The Washington Apple cocktail is named after the state of Washington and its apple industry. It was created as a way to support local apple growers and showcase the flavors of Washington apples during a challenging time for the industry. The combination of Crown Royal whiskey, sour apple schnapps, and cranberry juice creates a delicious and refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of Washington apples.