When my friend Marina requested an apple cider margarita for her party, I was dubious.  My brain flashed to an apple martini (how tacky!) and something far too sweet for my tastes.  But leave it to my husband to know just what I like.  Greg’s version is the perfect blend of tart, spice & smoke with just a touch of sweet.  Our friend Jenna has coined it “The Harvest Margarita” which makes it the perfect cocktail to serve for Thanksgiving!  As always, prepare a pitcher (or two, or three) in advance, so that nobody has to play bartender while watching football or cooking the bird.  You can even steep the fresh cider with cinnamon, cardamom & cloves a day or two in advance.  And in the fashion of my mom, I’ll also set out a tray of champagne glasses with frozen cranberries & bubbly.  It just wouldn’t be a holiday without some tradition!