The Stonewall Cocktail is a bright and refreshing drink with just the right amount of zing and spice. It’s one of those cocktails that feels like a celebration in a glass, whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or just winding down on a sunny afternoon. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress—especially when paired with good food and great company.
Stonewall Cocktail
History
This cocktail carries more than great flavor—it’s steeped in history. Named after the iconic Stonewall Inn in New York City, the drink honors the LGBTQ+ community and commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in the fight for equal rights. Every sip is a tribute to pride, resilience, and the spirit of celebration.
What Does It Taste Like?
The Stonewall Cocktail is a delightful mix of flavors: tangy apple cider, spicy ginger beer, and the warm, caramel notes of bourbon. A dash of Angostura bitters adds depth, while a lime wedge brings a refreshing burst of citrus. It’s bubbly, sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy—perfect for hot summer days or festive evenings. Honestly, I always feel like I’m sipping sunshine when I have one of these in hand.
What You’ll Need
Serves: 1 cocktail
Prep Time: 5 minutes
- 2 oz (60 ml) apple cider (fresh is best!)
- 1.5 oz (45 ml) bourbon
- 4 oz (120 ml) ginger beer (chilled, for that fizzy kick)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 lime wedge, for garnish
- Ice, to fill your glass
Equipment:
- Highball glass or Collins glass
- Stirring spoon
How to Make It
- Fill your highball glass with ice. Chilling the glass beforehand is even better if you want to keep your drink cool longer.
- Pour in 2 oz of apple cider and 1.5 oz of bourbon.
- Top it off with 4 oz of ginger beer—you’ll hear that satisfying fizz!
- Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters for a touch of complexity.
- Stir gently. You want the flavors to mix without losing too much of the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lime wedge. Give it a little squeeze if you like extra citrus zing.
And just like that, you’ve got yourself a perfectly balanced Stonewall Cocktail. Cheers!
Tips & Tricks
- Fresh is best: Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider if you can—it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Chill everything: Keep your ginger beer and cider in the fridge so your drink stays nice and cold without overloading on ice.
- Don’t over-stir: A quick stir is all you need to mix the ingredients while keeping the fizz intact.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re hosting a gathering, you can mix the apple cider, bourbon, and bitters ahead of time. Store the mixture in the fridge, then add the ginger beer and ice just before serving to keep it bubbly and fresh.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Apple cider: Swap it out for pear cider for a sweeter, softer flavor.
- Bourbon: Try spiced rum or vodka for a different twist.
- Ginger beer: Use ginger ale if you want a milder spice or less intense ginger flavor.
Variations to Try
Stonewall Spritz: Replace the bourbon with sparkling water and add a splash of lemon juice for a lighter, non-alcoholic version.
Spiced Stonewall: Use spiced rum instead of bourbon for a warm, cozy vibe.
Stonewall Mule: Swap the bourbon for vodka to create a fun, mule-inspired cocktail.
Food Pairings
Pairing this cocktail with the right bites can take your experience to the next level. Here are some of my favorite matches:
- Barbecue: The tangy, smoky flavors of grilled meats are a perfect match for the cocktail’s sweet and spicy profile.
- Cheese platters: Go for a mix of sharp and creamy cheeses. The drink’s brightness cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Grilled vegetables: The earthy, caramelized flavors of grilled veggies bring out the drink’s refreshing apple and ginger notes.
Common Questions
Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! Replace the bourbon with apple juice for a delicious mocktail that still has all the tangy, bubbly goodness.
What’s the best occasion to serve this cocktail?
It’s perfect for Pride Month, summer parties, or any celebration where you want to raise a glass to something meaningful.
How can I make it healthier?
Use low-sugar ginger beer and swap the apple cider for fresh-pressed apple juice to cut back on sugar without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use a different type of alcohol?
Definitely! Rum, vodka, or even gin work well and bring their own unique twist to the drink.
Why You’ll Love It
The Stonewall Cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a celebration of flavor, history, and community. Whether you’re making it to honor its roots or just because you love a good cocktail, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. And with so many ways to customize it, you’ll never run out of reasons to enjoy it. So grab your ingredients, mix it up, and sip on something truly special.
