The Stone Fence is one of those cocktails that feels like a sip of history-simple, strong, and surprisingly refreshing. It’s just two ingredients, but don’t let that fool you. With the crisp bite of hard cider and the warm depth of rum, this drink delivers a bold, apple-forward flavor that’s great year-round, but especially perfect for cozy fall evenings.
Stone Fence
This has been my go-to cocktail for chilly autumn nights when apples are in season and you’re craving something that’s both easy to make and full of character.
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 drink
Prep time: 2 minutes
Glass: Highball or mason jar
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) dark or spiced rum
– About 4-6 oz (120-180 ml) cold hard cider, to top
– Ice
– Optional garnish: apple slice or cinnamon stick
Method
- Fill a highball glass or mason jar with ice.
- Pour in the rum.
- Top it off with cold hard cider. Start with 4 oz (120 ml), then adjust to taste.
- Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- Add a garnish if you like-an apple slice or cinnamon stick adds a nice touch.
Tips & Notes
– Use a dry cider if you prefer a less sweet cocktail. Sweeter ciders will give it more of a dessert-like finish.
– Spiced rum brings out the warm, cozy notes-great for colder months.
– Want to serve this at a party? Just keep the 1:2 ratio of rum to cider and mix it in a pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice just before serving so it doesn’t water down.
– For a lighter version, swap the rum for ginger ale. You’ll still get the fizz and apple flavor without the alcohol.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh. If you’re making it for a crowd, mix the rum and cider ahead of time and chill. Add ice and garnishes just before serving to keep it crisp.
Flavor Profile
Expect a crisp apple backbone from the cider, balanced by the smooth warmth of rum. The drink starts off bright and fizzy, then finishes with a little kick. If you’ve ever enjoyed a spiced apple dessert, this is like the drinkable version-simple but deeply satisfying.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: the colder the cider, the better. It keeps the drink refreshing and helps the flavors stay sharp without needing too much ice.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Stone Fence with these bites for a cozy, well-rounded combo:
Pulled Pork Sliders
The cider’s tang and rum’s spice cut through the richness of the pork. It’s a match made for game day or backyard get-togethers.
Sharp Cheddar or Aged Gouda
Cheese boards love this cocktail. The sharpness of the cheese plays off the drink’s sweet and boozy notes.
Apple Pie or Crisp
Leaning into the apple theme brings out the dessert potential of this drink. Bonus points if the pie is warm and the drink is cold.
Variations
Winter Warmer
– Swap cold cider for hot apple cider
– Use dark rum
– Serve in a mug with a cinnamon stick
This version is cozy and comforting-like a grown-up apple cider.
Stone Fence Orchard Twist
– Use applejack instead of rum
– Try sparkling cider for extra fizz
– Serve in a flute and garnish with an apple twist
This one’s bright, bubbly, and great for brunch or a fall celebration.
Tropical Stone Fence
– Try coconut rum
– Use pineapple cider
– Serve over crushed ice
Perfect for warm weather when you want something fruity but not too sweet.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Replace rum with ginger ale
– Use non-alcoholic apple cider
You’ll still get that crisp, tangy flavor with a bit of spice and fizz.
FAQs
What’s the best time of year to serve a Stone Fence?
Fall is classic-apple season and all-but honestly, it’s great any time of year. You can warm it up in winter or go tropical in summer.
Can I batch this for a party?
Definitely. Stick to the basic ratio-2 parts cider to 1 part rum-and mix in a pitcher or punch bowl. Add ice and garnishes right before serving.
What kind of rum works best?
Aged or spiced rums are great for depth and warmth. If your cider’s on the sweeter side, go for a drier rum to balance it out.
What kind of cider should I use?
Use what you like drinking! Dry cider makes it crisp and light, while sweeter cider gives it a rounder, fruitier flavor.
Any fun garnishes?
A thin apple slice, a cinnamon stick, or even a sprig of mint can dress it up without much effort.
Is it beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. With only two ingredients and no fancy tools needed, it’s one of the easiest cocktails to get right.
Final Thoughts
The Stone Fence is one of those drinks that’s stood the test of time for a reason. It’s quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and hits that perfect balance between bold and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want to wind down with something simple but satisfying, this cocktail has you covered.
Try it once, and it might just become your go-to too.
