Apple-Sage Harmony Cocktail

1. Muddle Sage and Maple Syrup

Begin by taking your cocktail shaker and adding the fresh sage leaves along with the maple syrup. Spend about 30 seconds muddling these together. This step is crucial as muddling the sage leaves with the syrup releases the sage's essential oils, which will infuse your cocktail with a delightful aroma and depth of flavor. You'll know it's ready when the mixture becomes fragrant.

2. Add Remaining Ingredients

Next, pour in the bourbon, apple cider, and cider vinegar into the shaker. After adding these ingredients, fill the shaker with ice. The ice is important as it chills and slightly dilutes the cocktail, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

3. Shake and Strain

Now, give the mixture a good shake for about 5 seconds. This ensures that all the ingredients are well combined and properly chilled. Once shaken, double-strain the cocktail mixture into a chilled old-fashioned glass. You can use a strainer to catch any small pieces of sage and ensure a smooth drink.

4. Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, garnish your cocktail with a small sage sprig, and serve it over ice, either half-filled or with a single large ice cube.