To make maple simple syrup, combine 1/2 cup of maple syrup with 1/2 cup of hot water. Stir to blend. Let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to any refrigerator-safe container. it will last at least one month.
In a cocktail shaker or glass jar with a lid, combine the maple simple syrup with apple cider and lemon juice. Add 1-1/2 oz. of either tequila, aged whiskey or aged rum. Add ice. With the lid on, shake well until “it’s too cold to hold.”
Wet the rim of a cocktail glass with water and dip the rim into your mixture of cinnamon-sugar. Fill the glass with ice. Strain the ice-cold cocktail into the cocktail glass and top it off with a splash of ginger beer. (Anthony likes the Fever Tree brand, but use what you have.) If you want to get snazzy, add an apple slice.