Apple-Based Cocktails to Take You From Snow to Sun

SELAH, WA--(Marketwire - Mar 12, 2012) - Acai berry, pomegranate and goji juices, step aside -- apple juice and cider made from apples grown in local orchards are the key ingredients in the cocktails of 2012. Light and refreshing, U.S. apple juices are versatile and can be used in a variety of different cocktails. From a tart and tangy Apple Sour in the spring, to a rich and delicious Apple Crisp in the winter months, apple juice is not just a treat for kids anymore.

"Regardless of the weather, apple-based cocktails are always sure to delight, especially when they are made with apple juice squeezed from the ripe produce of local orchards versus sticky and oversweet apple liqueur," said Sharon Miracle, corporate communications director for Tree Top, a grower-owned co-op and producer of fresh pressed and pure apple juice from 100% USA apples. "These easy-to-make drinks can be enjoyed year-round and use ingredients you may already have in your pantry."

SPRING: Apple Sour

• 1 1/2 ounce bourbon
• 1 1/4 ounce Tree Top Apple Juice
• 3/4 ounce triple sec
• 1/4 ounce lemon juice
• 2 dashes orange bitters

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well. Strain into chilled old-fashioned glass over ice.

SUMMER: Apple Pie Martini

• 1 ounce vodka
• 1 1/2 ounce vanilla liqueur
• 2 ounces Tree Top Apple Cider
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Squeeze lime

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

FALL: Toffee Apple

• 2 ounces vodka
• 3 ounces Tree Top 3 Apple Blend Juice
• 1/2 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce toffee syrup
• Apple slice (garnish)

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with an apple slice.

WINTER: Apple Crisp

• 1 ounce cake flavored vodka
• 1 ounce spiced whiskey
• 1/2 ounce maple syrup
• 2 ounces Tree Top Apple Juice

Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Top with a dash of cinnamon.

Non-alcoholic: Tea Top

• Fill glass with ice and pour equal parts iced tea and Tree Top 3 Apple Blend.
• Top with sprig of mint, if desired.

About Tree Top
Since 1960, Tree Top has provided premium, quality juices, fruit based products and ingredients to consumers and most of the world's leading manufactures. The grower-owned cooperative operates eight processing facilities in the heart of Washington's apple country, Oregon and California. With more than 1,100 growers, the co-op creates the widest array of fruit-based products and ingredients available on the market. Tree Top's passion and attention to quality and craftsmanship makes it the first choice for customers. For more information, visit www.treetop.com.