After reading/watching Greg from How To Drink and Darcy O'Neil's opinion that the original grenadine was note pomegranate syrup, but had more of a spiced (spec. clove) flavor, I tried the basic 3 ingredients with Lairds 7 1/2, lemon, and Portland Syrups' True Cola. It's obviously a very different profile, but one that I like quite a lot better than the pomegranate based. Apple and spices is obviously a traditional combination, and the lemon brings in much needed brightness. It may not be everyone's cup of brandy, but I recommend it as an experiment if nothing else.

Used a combo of Bourbon and Calvados. Was a little too sour for me, but still quite delicious and nice. I also used a mix of orange juice and orange bitters, which is why I guess it was a little surprising. I also made one with just raspberry syrup and I would say I prefer that a little more.

Tart, fruity and very refreshing. I neglected to check the sweet-sour balance before shaking, but the flavour combination of apple, citrus acid and sweet berries is an absolute winner.

i made this following the recipe in the 'Spirited' cocktail book. 60ml calvados, 22ml lime juice, 22ml grenadine. beautiful and not as sweet as expected.

Was a bit concerned that this might be a bit sweet with all the ingredients, but it was perfectly balanced. Use Laird's Applejack 86, there was a nice hint of apple with the remaining flavours blending together.

Good cocktail, but one has to play with the ratio between the syrups, depending on the strength of their taste.