Yes, the applejack (I used Laird's BIB) is good/great... But I was immediately eager to try this instead with calvados... It's funny, because the apple element/flavor is more dominant than in almost any other cocktail I've made. But, yeah, it does resemble a Manhattan, but a drier, more sharply/tartly-fruited version... I'm entranced.
With only three ingredients, this is a delightful after-dinner cocktail or nightcap. Slightly bitter with hints of apple, cherry and spices. Perfect to relax after the day.