tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35237279215834709742024-03-13T23:17:40.493-07:00Along Came a CiderExploring the world, one cider at a timeMeredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comBlogger587125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-3039135918574518672024-03-11T23:00:00.000-07:002024-03-11T23:00:00.137-07:00Cider Review: Raw Cider Company's Brut Nature<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBH5dZUiQunQc6bmPGTBGrDX5EDKyktt-QqkJIGIzPTeq4_P9bSK05Y2WDoMemtQxqpR-TOde7XxZGxUdBCLZs9N8szi3v85t4XqwXK3PoScRI7O8HHRVkgeyV2kv9dPoV51euB261yeRvGzSm8yWOAVurHggms-jT1wDB_9fYXHaCUSQZdzj7Exwjntn/s1702/IMG_7062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1702" data-original-width="1191" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBH5dZUiQunQc6bmPGTBGrDX5EDKyktt-QqkJIGIzPTeq4_P9bSK05Y2WDoMemtQxqpR-TOde7XxZGxUdBCLZs9N8szi3v85t4XqwXK3PoScRI7O8HHRVkgeyV2kv9dPoV51euB261yeRvGzSm8yWOAVurHggms-jT1wDB_9fYXHaCUSQZdzj7Exwjntn/w280-h400/IMG_7062.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m an introvert, and yet I love good events. It feels like a paradox. I need quiet time away from people to recover energy rather than gaining energy from time with people, but at the same time both attending or hosting many different kinds of events remains satisfying to me. I’ve been slowly reading bits of <i>The Art of Gathering</i> by Priya Parker, and so much of what she writes resonates with me. I’ll share one quote and then I’ll get into this week’s review. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">Why do we gather? We gather to solve problems that we can't solve on our own, we gather to celebrate, to morn, and to mark transitions. We gather to make decisions, we gather because we need one another. We gather to show strength. We gather to honor and acknowledge. We gather to build companies, and schools, and neighborhoods. We gather to welcome and we gather to say goodbye. .. But here's the great paradox of gathering. There are so many good reasons for coming together that often we don't know precisely why we're doing so. ― Priya Parker, <i>The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters</i></span></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I love that kind of reflective thinking and acting to deepen connections. I had the honor to attend not one but two wonderful parties this weekend. Thank you again to my hosts! And to the first of these gatherings, I brought a cider from my cellar that I thought would be pleasing to my hosts and shared it. Here’s how it went. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I brought a bottle of Raw Cider Co.’s Brut Nature to the birthday party of a friend who just happens to be an amazing artist. She and her partner have wonderfully adventurous palates, so I wanted to bring something a bit daring for them. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is my first ever review for anything from Raw Cider Company. This cidery is based out of Oregon, and they focus a lot on letting nature guide their processes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Visit the cidery online here: <a href="https://rawcider.com/">https://rawcider.com/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s a bit of info about the Brut Nature.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This blend of Airlie Red and Karmijn de Sonneville apples were sourced from family orchards in Oregon. We work with growers that are passionate about their produce because the best flavors come from nature. Our gift at Raw is to share these naturally cultivated flavors with you so you can enjoy them in the company of friends or a good book.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aged on the lees for a minimum of 12 months. Bottled May 2021.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"> ABV 7.5%.</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1M82k-bKam_JddsH9gaiuA-k3AKNucRzqtwj15UBQbFrgVg_aECf3c_69E2QRD7WL5Ywc_Bydn3ZKO50TGCoNiB3nekkBBNzmy3RJ8KEeagEw_YcpbPr1Hn_qNnv7gGTpZPMgkyPfQte8QkKwxmRFBinPOVKvVUnyYkDyrY3iKXssmFQFwQbpj19mb80Z/s4032/431754999_2125052851195173_8305190791604015034_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1M82k-bKam_JddsH9gaiuA-k3AKNucRzqtwj15UBQbFrgVg_aECf3c_69E2QRD7WL5Ywc_Bydn3ZKO50TGCoNiB3nekkBBNzmy3RJ8KEeagEw_YcpbPr1Hn_qNnv7gGTpZPMgkyPfQte8QkKwxmRFBinPOVKvVUnyYkDyrY3iKXssmFQFwQbpj19mb80Z/w300-h400/431754999_2125052851195173_8305190791604015034_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: medium intensity, transparent, warm straw</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The color is the classic warm straw hue that I associate with many American ciders made with heirloom apple varieties. It’s not brilliant, but neither is it hazy. I think transparent would be the right word.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: leather, salt, funky, UK cider, melon, grape leaves </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I chose this cider hoping for something a bit challenging and different, because that’s a profile I know my hosts enjoy. As I hoped, the Brute Nature smells like some Cornish ciders I had when traveling. I get notes of salt, leather, fusil oils, grape leaves, and melon. There’s a fully present funk but it’s not out of balance.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Dry!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a dry cider! There’s a lot else going on, but it’s decidedly a dry cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: honey, pear, tannic, medium full mouthfeel, leather, medium acidity</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Exactly as I hoped, this cider was a huge hit at the party. Everyone who tried it raved about the taste. I noticed notes of honey and pear. It’s very sparkling texture with some substantial tannins made it very popular. The Brute Nature offers a medium full mouthfeel with medium high acidity; the two features balance one another nicely. In terms of secondary flavore notes, I got lots of leather, some citrus, and overripe apple as well. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Many thanks to the creative and daring friends who pulled us all together to celebrate this weekend. You've reminded me how much a good event can mean even to an introvert at heart.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyunaz-h7pAGEulsc9F3szxsjvTQ4omVaeOD9htpWz05DGCg7TVGjv284voe2iDpdhXSO-1DMAFcnUR39hUIsebS9MIgLZHDP2XWHFe-XAY-ABYzGZ1CQNppVqIx7x1s10jbMhykU0CnzpZorimItEG5rf76LYao3i0igziixNiG1_eFh27haGKnHOyfvm/s2016/IMG_7063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyunaz-h7pAGEulsc9F3szxsjvTQ4omVaeOD9htpWz05DGCg7TVGjv284voe2iDpdhXSO-1DMAFcnUR39hUIsebS9MIgLZHDP2XWHFe-XAY-ABYzGZ1CQNppVqIx7x1s10jbMhykU0CnzpZorimItEG5rf76LYao3i0igziixNiG1_eFh27haGKnHOyfvm/w300-h400/IMG_7063.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-2632264694648394262024-02-26T22:30:00.000-08:002024-02-26T22:30:00.139-08:00Cider Review: Seminary Hill Cider's SHOC Estate Reserve and some experimentation<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWE5QHEk2EjiiwuLD3pFx2sjGY-4WWhZ16anmzsMIKUJud64RIRRnCzXNv1VLlpTQPPV5YBJS1EJuV40GFKDYeAW4kJs1Ld_PL7mqtN-F90mn3f64_xqMJfl6-rBdDe7oGylEGivY-bkhh4_quChkIWy3RUwvlO9rkDrio5-MkDCFkrpxs5r0h0Hw4_ym/s2016/IMG_6793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWE5QHEk2EjiiwuLD3pFx2sjGY-4WWhZ16anmzsMIKUJud64RIRRnCzXNv1VLlpTQPPV5YBJS1EJuV40GFKDYeAW4kJs1Ld_PL7mqtN-F90mn3f64_xqMJfl6-rBdDe7oGylEGivY-bkhh4_quChkIWy3RUwvlO9rkDrio5-MkDCFkrpxs5r0h0Hw4_ym/w300-h400/IMG_6793.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m writing a bit early this week, because I’ll be traveling soon. I’m so excited to be headed for New Orleans for the first time since the 1990s! I like to take a Winter trip when I can, and I’ve longed to go back to New Orleans for a very long time. It should be a walking-heavy blend of food, spooky stuff, great food, and lots of relaxing in *fingers crossed* better weather than the end of February in upstate New York. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is my third entry about Seminary Hill Cider out of Callicoon, New York. This small independent cidery has been making beautiful ciders and doing tastings and events at a gorgeous environmentally focused cidery in the Catskills. Check out my earlier review and roundup to learn more about this boutique destination cidery.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK77AqBwdJ7Y_thGcY6yXcBpkYamWxEomMSrpNgYauanknje7dYrxrsyIlKMjZh2SgVhYkYG5QVp6ZcPK-WRLPpx4BE5sm2eGE__3pVhxY1W-wwN5QrA0z9bK26TifNTNX9XtLtiswnnpig3KKRYKWgbIEwFgko23DMF2wonq64BKG53ofUWz7dd_abwP/s2016/IMG_6794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK77AqBwdJ7Y_thGcY6yXcBpkYamWxEomMSrpNgYauanknje7dYrxrsyIlKMjZh2SgVhYkYG5QVp6ZcPK-WRLPpx4BE5sm2eGE__3pVhxY1W-wwN5QrA0z9bK26TifNTNX9XtLtiswnnpig3KKRYKWgbIEwFgko23DMF2wonq64BKG53ofUWz7dd_abwP/w300-h400/IMG_6794.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Round up, in which I share short thoughts on the 2021 Beechwoods, Nicksen, 2020 Semi-Sweet Cackling Hen, Tom’s Beard, and Spy Who Came in From the Cold: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-seminary-hill-cider-roundup.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-seminary-hill-cider-roundup.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Delaware Dry (my #8 favorite cider of 2023): <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-seminary-hill-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-seminary-hill-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I recommend going to the Seminar Hill Cidery website to learn more about this Catskills Cidery and all of the ciders and events there: <a href="https://www.seminaryhill.co/">https://www.seminaryhill.co/</a></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlm9faKcBuTrBq8ulQ6yNauxJcqFnXKqzQYiz0klC6Gfz5SZsI6n7lTepOX-X7VUvAHdJS6hHQOB8gyxvKF5ca2PSlpyFWw3F77n5ZMLg8Kj30ufLPsJlfQpQyQacTQPJqsRPGnZGULrVCWNL9jQYOy7arjQ6SvBtCfDM5BEu2YlrEy8R9o57OsT6T2Z_/s2016/IMG_6796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLlm9faKcBuTrBq8ulQ6yNauxJcqFnXKqzQYiz0klC6Gfz5SZsI6n7lTepOX-X7VUvAHdJS6hHQOB8gyxvKF5ca2PSlpyFWw3F77n5ZMLg8Kj30ufLPsJlfQpQyQacTQPJqsRPGnZGULrVCWNL9jQYOy7arjQ6SvBtCfDM5BEu2YlrEy8R9o57OsT6T2Z_/w300-h400/IMG_6796.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: brilliant, bubbly, intense nectarine</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What a lovely cider. I appreciate the bubbles dancing from the bottom of my glass and ringing the liquid. The SHOC Estate Reserve delivers an intense color that reminds me of nectarine flesh. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: peaches, ripe apples, pineapple, golden flower petals</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider smells deliciously like peaches, pineapples, and ripe apples. Secondarily, I get a whiff of clean spring green and something connotes golden petals.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/Dryness: Off Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a beautifully balanced off dry cider. It has enough sweetness to keep fruit to the forefront of the experience, but it’s remarkably restrained.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Off dry, zingy, peachy, structured, creamy, perfumed finish</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The SHOC Estate Reserve maintains its off-dry balance with off-the-charts acid, substantial tannins, and plentiful fruit notes. It comes across first as zingy and peachy. The cider develops in its midpalate into a full creamy body that remains structured by the tannins. As a potentially strange metaphor, I would say this cider lifts weights! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I also note lots of vinous flavors and a bit of inviting earthiness. What I think I love most is how concentrated flavor remains from start to finish. The small active bubbles and perfumed finish complete an utterly delightful beverage. This is one I’d be proud to place at the important meals of my life, but I’m also thrilled that I got to enjoy it with a simple supper the day before my trip. Good cider is for special occasions, but it’s also for everyday life. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">One last little preview of what’s to come. I’ve been doing this blog for more than ten years now, and I’ve developed a regular posting schedule and a bit of a template for posts. In the next few months, I will experiment with how Along Came a Cider shares. I’ll be posting twice a month rather than weekly. That’s so I can possibly share some original recipes using cider, write more posts about cider out in the world, my experiences at cider events, and try out some other things. I want to keep myself on my toes; suggestions are welcome.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PFotZSOw4b7cjCLvo0crEjT_YulczBs6rgO49YSWdmuL02DcbG_8rO3aayH96zX0b6sEAyBoL6nNdDQvlTHhoeSA-mEzrm_cIOVXhUuNgbQ0k7aexsIejCTvwrHpIZdtVfInhiFYkkI7dp9glivtWlZOXkpVbP7-D4ZdVs6jx9HQ3vWKtGww4pbF3o3R/s2016/IMG_6798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PFotZSOw4b7cjCLvo0crEjT_YulczBs6rgO49YSWdmuL02DcbG_8rO3aayH96zX0b6sEAyBoL6nNdDQvlTHhoeSA-mEzrm_cIOVXhUuNgbQ0k7aexsIejCTvwrHpIZdtVfInhiFYkkI7dp9glivtWlZOXkpVbP7-D4ZdVs6jx9HQ3vWKtGww4pbF3o3R/w300-h400/IMG_6798.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-68495661789652684452024-02-19T22:30:00.000-08:002024-02-19T22:30:00.127-08:00Cider Review: Portland Cider Co.'s Cinnamon Roll<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVFeGkSAYYmeKnEi9alXxbjfJquyqpgeDZXrYTvjAbSB2oRa-SZY-V3S0TKLl15LgCo_LAxifui2zU5Mh2IlhVNJML-ghRX650DT3wfL7VduDXD0tJQcCYF23_3M86yW9urDJLWqR2yZQZLJ-WQ_RYv93fNRKSm1Xbb2o4xeuzZahL8pSVIpho5IfL9XS/s2016/IMG_6765.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVFeGkSAYYmeKnEi9alXxbjfJquyqpgeDZXrYTvjAbSB2oRa-SZY-V3S0TKLl15LgCo_LAxifui2zU5Mh2IlhVNJML-ghRX650DT3wfL7VduDXD0tJQcCYF23_3M86yW9urDJLWqR2yZQZLJ-WQ_RYv93fNRKSm1Xbb2o4xeuzZahL8pSVIpho5IfL9XS/w300-h400/IMG_6765.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Being quite busy caught up to me last week, and I was down with a cold for much of the time. That’s no one’s favorite, and I was worried I wouldn’t recover in time to take decent notes on a cider this week. Lucky for me, rest works wonders. My sensitivity to taste and scent were back in action enough by Sunday evening to taste a cider that’s been waiting too long in my fridge. Here’s what I thought about Portland Cider Co.’s Cinnamon Roll! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Please check out my previous reviews of Portland Cider Co. beverages to learn more about this west coast cidery. It’s a wildly adventurous company in terms of what flavor adjunct to try, and their fondness for high acid fruit blends that maintain a strong cider base tend to be very tasty! Here’s the full list of earlier reviews.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cranberry Mule: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Imperial Abbey Apple: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/11/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/11/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bloody Hell: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Lemon-Lime Ciderade: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Crangerine: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Razzberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peach Berry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Kinda Dry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cranberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pumpkin Spice: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple Rose: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I recommend visiting Portland Cider Co.’s website to find out the latest from this cidery: <a href="https://www.portlandcider.com/home">https://www.portlandcider.com/home</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s the official description for the Cinnamon Roll seasonal cider:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cozy with comforting baked apple spice and a hint of vanilla.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Irresistibly comforting, our Cinnamon Roll hard cider takes Northwest apples infused with cinnamon and vanilla to craft a cider that tastes like a trip to your favorite bakery. A perfect balance of sweet and spicy, each sip is an indulgent treat and blissful experience. 6.2% ABV.</span></p></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeGHi1pg-OBt_8kjdPPireg7sK5GLEgeg8i1QsmuiNZml6tdSQC5KCejNom2j33Pd9De8ytn4b5cvfZg5VFh3yxNnBS-7hhimiwKLKZuc5hI1rvy8D2dg0t6KauVx0UbfKQFvuzh8A5aoUWuiX_7TISmOT46gMGwiJaLp110oIb_60KZU7uudBejL6c6Y/s2016/IMG_6767.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeGHi1pg-OBt_8kjdPPireg7sK5GLEgeg8i1QsmuiNZml6tdSQC5KCejNom2j33Pd9De8ytn4b5cvfZg5VFh3yxNnBS-7hhimiwKLKZuc5hI1rvy8D2dg0t6KauVx0UbfKQFvuzh8A5aoUWuiX_7TISmOT46gMGwiJaLp110oIb_60KZU7uudBejL6c6Y/w300-h400/IMG_6767.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: Brilliant, warm straw, no visible bubbles</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">The color on this cider would be best described as a warm straw. The Cinnamon Roll does not display an intense version of the hue; it’s more gentle. The cider is brilliant, and I do not see any visible bubbles in the glass.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: baked apple, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Wow! The aromas are so vivid and distinct. The Cinnamon Smells like a baked cinnamon apple. I’ve made these so many times, and that’s exactly how the cider smells. It’s redolent with notes of baked apple, cinnamon, vanilla, brown sugar and nutmeg</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Sweet</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a sweet cider. It is not a dry cider. Do not ask it to be a dry or even semi-dry cider. The sweetness is much like a cinnamon roll but with a wonderful core of apple.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: balanced, high acid, no tannins, dessert, baked apple, sweet potato pie</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Be prepared for something sumptuously sweet and pleasant when taking a sip of Portland Cider Co.’s Cinnamon Roll. This cider reminds me of sweet potato pie, baked apples, and cinnamon rolls! I really appreciate that apple flavor remains present in both aroma and flavor! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Though we do have apples, I think cinnamon is dominant in the flavor profile. The Cinnamon Roll cider offers up very fine bubbles, high acidity, and no tannins. The mouthfeel is full and creamy.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I paired this cider with spicy popcorn and a fun rom com at home. This is exactly how I would recommend enjoying Portland Cider Co.’s Cinnamon Roll!</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaBFFUBOg55IBIjyZNZXJERdwDO262gh_W7KIFg475onyh6LXqXdO_WKNb6P50xArl-DLtgzoMwZ7WhGbVlDomkPBIBeAr800HWnhAAI-HAhWOxHDap5ZarBQcsTRB9lT0dmheVSL_l5rzlpHqoRm79oy-gOC4ZRf05wdpXROJ4TGdWPzMkHlfUrplzHY/s2016/IMG_6766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIaBFFUBOg55IBIjyZNZXJERdwDO262gh_W7KIFg475onyh6LXqXdO_WKNb6P50xArl-DLtgzoMwZ7WhGbVlDomkPBIBeAr800HWnhAAI-HAhWOxHDap5ZarBQcsTRB9lT0dmheVSL_l5rzlpHqoRm79oy-gOC4ZRf05wdpXROJ4TGdWPzMkHlfUrplzHY/w300-h400/IMG_6766.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-57063512912197520572024-02-12T22:30:00.000-08:002024-02-12T22:30:00.135-08:00Cider Review: Blackbird Cider Works Extra Dry Classic Wood Aged Cider<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7Xm0lRwAH3JvtbZnih6uh9w895x-NfeNmnjgupPVGESOmeJjiyTswMYQbyHYKThqU3m7JNFgtdKjvVdjC61C-XAdq5V32di8ZMQjTHvcWSE8isgxXtZbIdjgh0GWl7E0D3Ach_4hhP7FvDoDUND0CLBTmaTv5zJS0InjZq02GE653WGVAs_pEEoYm-U5/s2016/IMG_6721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7Xm0lRwAH3JvtbZnih6uh9w895x-NfeNmnjgupPVGESOmeJjiyTswMYQbyHYKThqU3m7JNFgtdKjvVdjC61C-XAdq5V32di8ZMQjTHvcWSE8isgxXtZbIdjgh0GWl7E0D3Ach_4hhP7FvDoDUND0CLBTmaTv5zJS0InjZq02GE653WGVAs_pEEoYm-U5/w300-h400/IMG_6721.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Last week, we had a tiny preview of Spring. It was unbelievable, and it reminded me to trust that in a couple of months Spring will arrive in earnest. The Tall One and I took a long impromptu walk, inspired by sunlight after 4pm and mild temperatures. It was a kind of magic that Winter doesn’t know. We ended up catching a lovely meal at a restaurant we’d not visited for months and months. There, I tried a Blackbird Cider Works Extra Dry Classic Wood Aged Cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blackbird Cider Works is now based out of Buffalo, New York. Though it is a regional cidery, I’ve not tasted or reviewed the ciders very often. I looked and only found one previous review! I’ll put the link below.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Orchardist’s Reserve: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/10/cider-review-blackbird-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/10/cider-review-blackbird-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What I will note is that Resurgence Brewing acquired Blackbird Ciderworks from Donovan Orchards as of 2023. Here’s a link to a news story with more details about that change.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.brewbound.com/news/resurgence-brewing-co-acquires-blackbird-cider-works-from-donovan-orchards-llc/">https://www.brewbound.com/news/resurgence-brewing-co-acquires-blackbird-cider-works-from-donovan-orchards-llc/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">https://blackbirdciders.com/ This is currently under construction, so it might make more sense to connect with Blackbird Cider Works on social media instead.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/blackbirdciders">https://www.facebook.com/blackbirdciders</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/blackbirdciderworks/">https://www.instagram.com/blackbirdciderworks/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s the description I could find for this cider online. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">Extra Dry Classic Wood-Aged Cider is a classic ultra-dry cider. Golden in color with apple aromatics, dry apple flavor, and just a slight hint of oak. Perfect balance between acidity and tannin, and a smooth, dry finish. 6.6% ABV. </span></blockquote><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBrWO2knh1K0YIN66VKtI8VkJIFEqjnwff1MFZyzNEu_sBlc_RJ2U7QpmZIHonYAgi21Hz789coiIWjafRyYo-Tkb9EI4TAokvb4mF1Eas6q405A4UTxNx-UNA29xU_RXbbL9bv_U1gSHiCp9As3zy3xi-YnRdL8j4KGlpeifDfUlbz1-3pTZA2kPWDj8/s2016/IMG_6724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBrWO2knh1K0YIN66VKtI8VkJIFEqjnwff1MFZyzNEu_sBlc_RJ2U7QpmZIHonYAgi21Hz789coiIWjafRyYo-Tkb9EI4TAokvb4mF1Eas6q405A4UTxNx-UNA29xU_RXbbL9bv_U1gSHiCp9As3zy3xi-YnRdL8j4KGlpeifDfUlbz1-3pTZA2kPWDj8/w300-h400/IMG_6724.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: slight haze, cool pale straw, few visible bubbles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This has the look of a wood-aged cider. Often that element of fermentation process lends a mild haze to the final cider. The color reminds me of an evening moon; it’s pale and cool. I don’t see a lot in the way of visible bubbles.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: minerals, pears, overripe apples, grapefruit, a bit of funk</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The cider starts off with a waft of minerals followed by a parade of fruit: pear, grapefruit, and overripe apples. Somehow there’s a hint of salt. The wood aging is apparent but not super distinct. Hints of funk are present.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/sweetness: Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a dry cider. There are elements of fruit and more sweet aromas, but I don’t think the cider has a lot of residual sugar going on.</span></p><div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: sap, barrel, medium acid, low tannins, twiggy, medium bubbly</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I thought I got a good idea of the wood aging from the Extra Dry’s aromas, but I was so wrong. There’s so much more to it! This cider is beautifully balanced with it’s dryness and wood aging. That’s not an easy combination to get right; too many elements can fight to be the primary driver of flavor.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blackbird has chosen to put the wood aging forward in the Extra Dry. I think that’s a fantastic choice. What I get as I sip this are a medley of exciting flavors including: salt, tree sap, butterscotch, banana and apple. There’s plenty of barrel on the finish. The cider tastes dry throughout with medium acid and sparkle.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">What little sweetness comes through has barrel and maple warmth; I’m reminded of salted butterscotch, which pairs nicely with the wintry, twiggy dryness. The cider has a medium mouthful. Tannins are low but make themselves known.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: georgia;">I paired this cider with a meal of blackened salmon served with julienned roasted root vegetables and rich creamy grits. It was a perfect seasonal combination. Highly recommended!</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fYqF0_c_OHlnJcCKvCmKOpn3ZEDmligMKGJbzpnCRF04wxPhX0cXxrLqbYMymUXkm63SfouGRTEO3Gk6wgoteg4ji-JKQivr9cRY7qjb1EmGl2glksMtlMyE2NFlm7eWrd9VMVxaiQEn7cdUfsj1LfevDVxTeUiDkua7oku9HKW480GRBwJqQvbDUZ_C/s2016/IMG_6723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6fYqF0_c_OHlnJcCKvCmKOpn3ZEDmligMKGJbzpnCRF04wxPhX0cXxrLqbYMymUXkm63SfouGRTEO3Gk6wgoteg4ji-JKQivr9cRY7qjb1EmGl2glksMtlMyE2NFlm7eWrd9VMVxaiQEn7cdUfsj1LfevDVxTeUiDkua7oku9HKW480GRBwJqQvbDUZ_C/w300-h400/IMG_6723.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></div><div><br /></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-20775104042276021002024-02-05T22:00:00.000-08:002024-02-05T22:00:00.129-08:00Cider Review: 2 Towns Apricot Cosmic Crisp <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIzOgaOM274PRc4kyE9-45do3R1XMHgU0IBnB4dMZqV2aO-2EDF3F6ypyl0xhyphenhyphenENCaXblnc2njtg8TXT59lUFnx1y-9aEbqBBN47rWKep21blV4vbAwFNPZokpDgRHheL-blHc_B0MpbskMkHZipYUFLWOUnUHRZZbd6Qyy-_hebeAP0n-KcwI1Pqow9w/s2016/IMG_6695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXIzOgaOM274PRc4kyE9-45do3R1XMHgU0IBnB4dMZqV2aO-2EDF3F6ypyl0xhyphenhyphenENCaXblnc2njtg8TXT59lUFnx1y-9aEbqBBN47rWKep21blV4vbAwFNPZokpDgRHheL-blHc_B0MpbskMkHZipYUFLWOUnUHRZZbd6Qyy-_hebeAP0n-KcwI1Pqow9w/w300-h400/IMG_6695.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This weekend, I finally saw the sun in February. What an amazing restorative. Each chance for a walk in bright light feels like a stolen treasure. Relish them. When we don’t have the golden orb blessing us, there are bit of brightness that can come from other directions. I’m happy to enjoy those too. I was so happy to get 2 Towns’ Apricot Cosmic Crisp review samples recently. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2 Towns is named for Corvallis and Portland, Oregon where the cidery is based. I’ve been fond of this adventurous cidery since I first tasted them in 2014! I can’t believe it has been 10 years! You can find lots more background about the cidery in these previous blog posts.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s a rundown of my earlier reviews for 2 Towns! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Baddie: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/03/cider-review-two-towns-ciderhouses.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/03/cider-review-two-towns-ciderhouses.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Crimson Bliss: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/10/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/10/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hollow Jack’d: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/09/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-hollow.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/09/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-hollow.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Two Berry Dream: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-two.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-two.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">10th Anniversary Cider Pacific Northwest Heirloom Blend: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/01/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-10th.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/01/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-10th.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Good Limes Roll: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/07/cider-reviews-two-towns-cider-house.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/07/cider-reviews-two-towns-cider-house.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cosmic Currant: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/12/cider-review-two-towns-cosmic-currant.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/12/cider-review-two-towns-cosmic-currant.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hollow Jack’d: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/10/cider-review-two-towns-ciderhouse.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/10/cider-review-two-towns-ciderhouse.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Afton Field: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/06/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-afton.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/06/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-afton.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">La Mûre: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/02/cider-review-albemarle-ciderworks.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/02/cider-review-albemarle-ciderworks.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-eden-ciders-siren-song-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-eden-ciders-siren-song-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cidre Bouche: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/11/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-cidre.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/11/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouses-cidre.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pearadise: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/05/very-perry-may-2-towns-ciderhouses.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/05/very-perry-may-2-towns-ciderhouses.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bright Cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/07/cider-review-roundup-common-cider-co.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/07/cider-review-roundup-common-cider-co.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hop and Stalk: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/12/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-hop-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/12/cider-review-2-towns-ciderhouse-hop-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I recommend visiting 2 Towns’ Ciderhouse has a website to find out about the cidery’s releases and events: <a href="https://2townsciderhouse.com/">https://2townsciderhouse.com/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how 2 Towns describes the Apricot Cosmic Crisp on the website. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">Score your first intergalactic ace when you approach with this apricot adaptation of Cosmic Crisp. Crafted with Northwest apples & apricots, this sweet & zingy cosmic-apricot combo is guaranteed to break some chains. Careful now, too much hyzer and you’ll end up out of this world. 9% ABV.</span></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m super curious to taste how the 9% ABV comes across.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArRt4FEHWMFA7XIOOmsgGucWe-HVyJq-PBnyQGCJiDSa3NTYl7LD1bM1hH0Qo7vEqGHinmhOsngdFcSA16uxLBNZ5che-U02xi3KU7Y4WnsmS9SGSG4Y0ifrUVKRBDIjFMZR_Q8irE4shqfbMNfzsihoNSf3PmoaIf3JJL22G1_l4KzEH-_ZKI150g7cy/s2016/IMG_6697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArRt4FEHWMFA7XIOOmsgGucWe-HVyJq-PBnyQGCJiDSa3NTYl7LD1bM1hH0Qo7vEqGHinmhOsngdFcSA16uxLBNZ5che-U02xi3KU7Y4WnsmS9SGSG4Y0ifrUVKRBDIjFMZR_Q8irE4shqfbMNfzsihoNSf3PmoaIf3JJL22G1_l4KzEH-_ZKI150g7cy/w300-h400/IMG_6697.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: pale warm straw, brilliant, bubbly</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">All of 2 Towns’s ciders are lovely. That’s not a surprise, but I really wasn’t sure what to expect from an apricot cider. I associate apricots with a mellow opaque orange color, so this elegant pale straw was a fun surprise.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Peach, lemon, minerals,</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Apricot Cosmic Crisp smells intensely peachy! It’s enticing and reminds me of fruity candies with citric acid, but also of stones and lemons.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Sweet</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: High acid, apricot, peach bubbly, boozy</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I have to start by acknowledging that this cider is doing a lot with sweetness and high acidity. It tastes very much like dried apricots; it’s more vivid and bold than fresh ones would be. I do wish I could taste the specificity of the Crimson Crisp apple, since it’s named here.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The higher ABV is apparent in some warming to the throat and stomach, but it’s remarkably smooth and full bodied. And since that 9% is coming in a full sized can, it’s a great size to share.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I found the Apricot Crimson Crisp Also very exciting as a sweet mixer- I used it with a barrel aged tequila and plain seltzer. For well balanced food pairings, the accompaniments should be similarly bold but not overly complex. I have had the pleasure of this cider twice. The first time was when I tasted it and experimented with using it as a mixer at a fabulous horror movie party. What a set of combinations! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The films we watched were Dolls (1987) and Eraserhead (1977). I can certainly recommend the whole experience thought it will be hard to reproduce without the fantastic company.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">And the second time I tried this cider, I took notes and then finished my glass with vegetarian burritos with The Tall One and my absolute favorite new album of 2024. If anything manages to top this, I will be shocked.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1ycq58KRtWt3wFtbuIkvLn?si=QUfXDq4CRPaQMiAFTUhafA">https://open.spotify.com/album/1ycq58KRtWt3wFtbuIkvLn?si=QUfXDq4CRPaQMiAFTUhafA</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Maximize your deliciousness however you like. A big cider like this deserves it.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBvcL5gm5QYvt0-vrVwi3Bb3RopuZBIGEh0u4EaHDyfjyuj0AWHJDEj6AyGqXkynNzH-wrZwXmxuhl3UdEe1lFybFQ2CJYRD9y5JVyjnkvKdXsPdK0QCnvBq1SYbF83ugCC_1mn7IPpKq7okLg11340LI0HEkGPZ-Ym_z5Fymowj5CgcT_pq6B_rvl4tB/s2016/IMG_6698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJBvcL5gm5QYvt0-vrVwi3Bb3RopuZBIGEh0u4EaHDyfjyuj0AWHJDEj6AyGqXkynNzH-wrZwXmxuhl3UdEe1lFybFQ2CJYRD9y5JVyjnkvKdXsPdK0QCnvBq1SYbF83ugCC_1mn7IPpKq7okLg11340LI0HEkGPZ-Ym_z5Fymowj5CgcT_pq6B_rvl4tB/w300-h400/IMG_6698.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-81798902829489467242024-01-29T22:30:00.000-08:002024-01-29T22:30:00.163-08:00Cider Review: Angry Orchard's The Extension<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9HpPrtaaS3zr_axHxOCn0yr3iC6x0TJK4-fTtECb21jfUaaYRjxzyl7bYyj8MWY9xSaSGubKLpjyF-6WYFA4K3Ca78qaPrhjkmCpSDacAHVJC_Z0xQ-oiIZeG5OiCkba8DQ_0HJlkUYreNhr75gEEv_gK8EiRQEXRpxQS2K87nR9C_jf0PYC1JW4-bso/s2016/IMG_6618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc9HpPrtaaS3zr_axHxOCn0yr3iC6x0TJK4-fTtECb21jfUaaYRjxzyl7bYyj8MWY9xSaSGubKLpjyF-6WYFA4K3Ca78qaPrhjkmCpSDacAHVJC_Z0xQ-oiIZeG5OiCkba8DQ_0HJlkUYreNhr75gEEv_gK8EiRQEXRpxQS2K87nR9C_jf0PYC1JW4-bso/w300-h400/IMG_6618.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">For most of the day my phone was missing! My long-suffering backpack gave up one of its side pockets this morning. Thankfully, a kind person found it, the Tall One called it, and they got together while I was at work to return the phone. My cider notes from this weekend were already safely stored redundantly! Here’s a sign from the universe; save your work in multiple places. Thanks again, random kind stranger!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This week’s review is one I’ve been saving for a rainy night. I’m opening up my bottle of Angry Orchard’s The Extension. This is a small batch Walden Cider House project made using all Cornell Orchard apples wild fermented. It has an AVB of 7.4%. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Angry Orchard is a large-scale cider producer with distribution far and wide. The Walden, New York Innovation Ciderhouse is the smaller operation in the Hudson Valley of New York that tries new cider and orchard experiments on a smaller scale. This cider was shared with me on my last trip to the cider house because I was so curious about what came of the Cornell Orchard fruit! More information about Angry Orchard and the Walden location appears in my earlier reviews.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are some, but not all, of my previous Angry Orchard Walden cider reviews. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Margil: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/04/cider-review-angry-orchards-margil.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/04/cider-review-angry-orchards-margil.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Buddy King: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/11/cider-review-angry-orchards-buddy-king.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/11/cider-review-angry-orchards-buddy-king.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Supernatural: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-angry-orchard-super.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-angry-orchard-super.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Newtown Pippin: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-angry-orchards-newtown.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-angry-orchards-newtown.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Baldwin: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/05/cider-review-angry-orchards-baldwin.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/05/cider-review-angry-orchards-baldwin.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Understood in Motion 2: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/02/cider-review-critz-farms-double-vision.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/02/cider-review-critz-farms-double-vision.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Understood in Motion 3: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/08/cider-review-angry-orchard-ciders.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/08/cider-review-angry-orchard-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Wooden Sleeper: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-angry-orchards-wooden.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-angry-orchards-wooden.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Old Fashioned: https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/08/cider-review-angry-orchards-old.html</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Walden Hollow: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/09/cider-review-angry-orchards-walden.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/09/cider-review-angry-orchards-walden.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Knotty Pear: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/06/cider-review-angry-orchards-knotty-pear.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/06/cider-review-angry-orchards-knotty-pear.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Strawman, The Muse, and Traditional Dry: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/05/roundup-of-angry-orchard-reviews.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/05/roundup-of-angry-orchard-reviews.html</a></span></p><p>Here's what I read on the back of the bottle. </p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Extension is a recognition of the Cornell University College of Agricultural and Life Sciences' mission to extend research to farmers.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This dry and wild apple wine is crafted from apples grown at Cornell University's research orchards, where scientists experiment with cider apple varieties, production, and fermentation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">A portion of the profits from the sale of Angry Orchard's "The Extension" will be donated to support the scientists, teachers, and students at Cornell University.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">For more information about Cornell University's Hard Cider Program, visit <a href="http://hardcider.cals.cornell.edu">hardcider.cals.cornell.edu</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">$20 per bottle; maximum donation $15,000. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Offer valid at Angry Orchard Cidery, Walden, New York.</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7KcpYNoR03EvB5VTfduw9oH_4IFhDVoM8IxxLKyg4l0VlmSthJ-pdPx2y3lUdJZG8L1WyRvEd3FeQ-LSdHP3uayaSgnpLzoS9oaXWk9B2cnTBKXyF6q7KV3FCY5iX56u5lVmD9_2uhrIIXFOyvdfqLSiDJl2JBQAaP9lOO0xBEp9VkXOdhiK9Diz5-7I/s2016/IMG_6622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7KcpYNoR03EvB5VTfduw9oH_4IFhDVoM8IxxLKyg4l0VlmSthJ-pdPx2y3lUdJZG8L1WyRvEd3FeQ-LSdHP3uayaSgnpLzoS9oaXWk9B2cnTBKXyF6q7KV3FCY5iX56u5lVmD9_2uhrIIXFOyvdfqLSiDJl2JBQAaP9lOO0xBEp9VkXOdhiK9Diz5-7I/w300-h400/IMG_6622.jpg" width="300" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: Brilliant, fine bubbles, shining warm straw</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What a lovely cider. It has brilliant clarity with active fine bubbles. The Extension just shines</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">From my glass with a subtle warm straw color. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: green wood, yeast, funk</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Whoa! These are not the aromas that I usually associate with an Angry Orchard cider. Instead the Extension leads with stone, green wood, and a little oxidation. The whole comes across as farmy but not in any obviously wrong way. Fans of wild yeast/natural fermentation ciders are going to absolutely love this!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Bone dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Yep, I said. This cider is completely dry.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: buttery, austere, tannic, barnyard</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Extension is such an understated adult cider. It tastes very dry, fully fermented, buttery, and mildly tannic. I love its strong bubble, medium acidity, and lots of low woody, sappy, springy notes. The cider somehow reminds me that Spring will come again. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider comes across as more austere than fruity. Instead, it’s nutty. I think this would be quite appealing for fans of Chardonnay. I’d pair it with walnuts, blue cheese, dried fruits, or dark chocolate mousse. I think its strong wild character and zesty bubbles would make it great for an intense food flavor with some heft.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWfmHXtGG0NPZp9rPxys5RRVKfbiNIHlHHcYqD4LHwfVKtDSf-5SBiXfo5WIpCFTK78_EeaLCODiiI2SiOx7bZSvxjgX-j4BlQxlTeLvLDjdAPr7uOw9edyZVm0u-7xNaZXmoL-xqj96VUxrxATr8AxAD9679LvCsnEqn6cYfhxRFzCnca_d5srQIU0XL/s2016/IMG_6620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWfmHXtGG0NPZp9rPxys5RRVKfbiNIHlHHcYqD4LHwfVKtDSf-5SBiXfo5WIpCFTK78_EeaLCODiiI2SiOx7bZSvxjgX-j4BlQxlTeLvLDjdAPr7uOw9edyZVm0u-7xNaZXmoL-xqj96VUxrxATr8AxAD9679LvCsnEqn6cYfhxRFzCnca_d5srQIU0XL/w300-h400/IMG_6620.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-46092384704197597302024-01-22T22:30:00.000-08:002024-01-22T22:30:00.130-08:00Cider Review: Snow Capped Cider's Wickson Crab <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSY-Uhqa_gQnvVeeMfWECdGIXV6WDP6uXf4a8kmyizpglC7QlyY698JW3Oe5MjCRp1555iavv7bSmgLRoWGSkOYJ-V8DbqBToXFPXAZiOZ9lyQD5mjHjNGLtzbJAeFvG_bdzIxVTyM7aoAgIdjd9raWJ3-CrYGOYWwgf6E7WEYUmFVfc2pa_Wl4H6ch1F/s2016/IMG_6497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSY-Uhqa_gQnvVeeMfWECdGIXV6WDP6uXf4a8kmyizpglC7QlyY698JW3Oe5MjCRp1555iavv7bSmgLRoWGSkOYJ-V8DbqBToXFPXAZiOZ9lyQD5mjHjNGLtzbJAeFvG_bdzIxVTyM7aoAgIdjd9raWJ3-CrYGOYWwgf6E7WEYUmFVfc2pa_Wl4H6ch1F/w300-h400/IMG_6497.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Giant publisher Conde Nast laid off most of the Pitchfork staff recently, dealing a horrific blow to the world of music writing. Last week, most Sports Illustrated workers were recently cut without ceremony. In the fall of last year, the majority of Bandcamp’s journalists were also let go. None of these sites were gutted because people were failing to produce quality work. I could track down countless similar stories. I’m sharing because I care about culture journalism just like I care about all journalism. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m invested in that I started this cider review blog totally independently eleven years ago, and I’ve been reviewing ciders from around the world consistently since then. No one is paying me: not for advertisements, coverage, special access to tasting notes, or favorable notice. That’s how I like it. But it also means that I have to fit my cider work into the margins after getting my bills paid. That’s why I wasn’t at CiderCon in all the wild weather this year and for the past several. I have to budget what time and resources I can allocate to this passion. And maybe someday, it won’t make sense for me to write in this way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The connection is simple. We live in an economic system that doesn’t value long-term investment for the sake of curiosity, care, or criticism. It wants efficiency, newness, growth, sustained by less and less and less. And this same system also makes it hard for cider makers, food workers, artists, farmers, scholars, game designers, and just about anybody who doesn’t have an alternate path to financial solvency. And that makes me angry and sad. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I don’t want our world to become really, really boring as fewer people can use their time in interesting and creative ways. But what are our options? This is the question in my mind when I sip my cider on these cold January nights. This week, I’m sharing my thoughts on Snow Capped Cider’s Wickson in addition to a cultural plight. I wanted a treat and Wickson Crab ciders are often among my favorites, and Snow Capped Cider has a great record of success as well. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are all of my previous reviews of Snow Capped Ciders’ beverages. I include more background on the cidery and farm behind them in some of the earlier reviews. These ciders were shared with me for review, but my opinions remain entirely my own.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BQ5Vvpm4iy75F4xp5wT50W59f7ekSjyWkZkqOIGy7O0hAP8RdjAu4eQgxZP1R2dps8JrwW5eYcLBGfGR4esC2QC0XO3zGuzkDeO8nF7gRPmxKyOEeKsDfkGbxD6XS3gx0vqlkMLvhdeF5rSZ0Gipf-N77_OR4wBrvXeIFMVV4wODemTSuwcbZoS8oh96/s1544/IMG_6498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1160" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7BQ5Vvpm4iy75F4xp5wT50W59f7ekSjyWkZkqOIGy7O0hAP8RdjAu4eQgxZP1R2dps8JrwW5eYcLBGfGR4esC2QC0XO3zGuzkDeO8nF7gRPmxKyOEeKsDfkGbxD6XS3gx0vqlkMLvhdeF5rSZ0Gipf-N77_OR4wBrvXeIFMVV4wODemTSuwcbZoS8oh96/w300-h400/IMG_6498.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Winter Pear: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/perry-review-snow-capped-ciders-winter.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/perry-review-snow-capped-ciders-winter.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dabinett: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-dabinett.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-dabinett.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jala-pear-no Cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/11/ciderperry-review-snow-capped-ciders.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/11/ciderperry-review-snow-capped-ciders.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ashmead’s Kernel: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/09/cider-review-snow-capped-cider-ashmeads.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/09/cider-review-snow-capped-cider-ashmeads.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blanc Mollet: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/06/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-single.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/06/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-single.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Gold Rush: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/04/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-gold.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/04/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-gold.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Harrison Reserve (My #5 favorite cider of 2021): <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/cider-review-snow-capped-cider-harrison.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/cider-review-snow-capped-cider-harrison.html</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">You can visit Snow Capped Cider’s website to find out about latest releases and news from the Colorado cidery: <a href="https://snowcappedcider.com/">https://snowcappedcider.com/</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s what I could find on the website about the 2020 Wickson Crab cider.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></div><blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">For many years we have planted crabapple trees for pollination in our orchards. Now we harvest this scrappy little apple for its wild character in cider making. Wickson brings extraordinary high sugar content with razor-sharp acid levels. The result is elegant and fanciful. Wickson fills the palate with luscious, balanced, sweet notes of kiwi and honeydew building dimensional acid warmth with a lingering finish.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 8.40%</span></div></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider did merit a platinum medal at the Great American Cider Competition in 2021.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieju95EtYyF6rwADNgFaLeLxqw5oHCQKYBJ2UvI7k5FzU6ioKq7fMGBlBkbHxLvqF7rpjizoKXtebsNfQ62BITV656UREGwnD_zawTwOgeFo0JxKNWk-adMUtIFL0z39IYZgc2VbwOLBRVAb4djCp1OCBK0ZkcVeJn8rq6s6oAIOmugHH6zqGAxcWJPSgT/s2016/IMG_6501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieju95EtYyF6rwADNgFaLeLxqw5oHCQKYBJ2UvI7k5FzU6ioKq7fMGBlBkbHxLvqF7rpjizoKXtebsNfQ62BITV656UREGwnD_zawTwOgeFo0JxKNWk-adMUtIFL0z39IYZgc2VbwOLBRVAb4djCp1OCBK0ZkcVeJn8rq6s6oAIOmugHH6zqGAxcWJPSgT/w300-h400/IMG_6501.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: intense honeycomb amber, brilliant, few bubbles</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The color of the Wickson Crab reminds me of autumn and rich full honeycomb. It’s a warm and deep shade of amber that brings some real intensity. It’s a beautiful cider.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: overripe apple, minerals, mild oxidation, baking spice</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The aromas remind me of familiar homemade applesauce. It’s an overripe apple nose with hints of baking spices. I do get just the barest hint of oxidation, but not to a troubling degree.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Off Dry</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This tastes off dry. There’s enough acid and tannin in the mix that I bet the measurable sugar looks higher than it tastes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: lush velvet tannins, high acid, mellow apricot, minerals, and citrus</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The applesauce and overripe apple notes from the aroma return on the palate for the Wickson Crab. They are joined by apricot and citrus notes as well. The cider is redolent with fruity acidity and lush velvet tannins. There’s also a twiggy vibrance going on. What an amazing combination. Wickson Crabs really can produce just the most luscious and lively ciders.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The off the charts acid and beautiful tannins do not create an austere or minimal experience. Instead, Snow Capped Cider’s Wickson comes across as rich with the mood of peak autumnal splendor. The bubbles are much more apparent in the mouthfeel than they were visibly, which is a real treat. The opulence of this cider is bold and welcoming and wonderful. I love it. </span></div></div></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-5405509279163587942024-01-08T22:00:00.000-08:002024-01-08T22:00:00.131-08:00Winter Break! <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR1Eh_LD4-GFeIMm1CyO4XqzPPqTzMzi6oNqSFsy6pmRjwqWtGwdmE95q8bV1bc_g5X1ev7v7i63tuCpXGT4qiZ0o2EafaFxrUXaejHVcXcvLszJUr7GBnfJRvIFIO2L8IeB-0hO36x4HSNE5s4R3zDLkRFRD1QuL5_1VCf1F4Jfl5gh38gDXo9gDM2Ov/s1200/ACaC%20Winter%20Break%2024.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIR1Eh_LD4-GFeIMm1CyO4XqzPPqTzMzi6oNqSFsy6pmRjwqWtGwdmE95q8bV1bc_g5X1ev7v7i63tuCpXGT4qiZ0o2EafaFxrUXaejHVcXcvLszJUr7GBnfJRvIFIO2L8IeB-0hO36x4HSNE5s4R3zDLkRFRD1QuL5_1VCf1F4Jfl5gh38gDXo9gDM2Ov/w400-h400/ACaC%20Winter%20Break%2024.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now that the time to Wassail has come and gone, it's time for a little winter snooze. The trees are resting, so I will join them. To everyone who is going, have a wonderful time at CiderCon! I'll catch you when you're back. </div><br /> <p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-2413066111124099932024-01-02T07:44:00.000-08:002024-01-02T07:44:31.151-08:00Cider Review: Blake’s Hard Cider Co.'s Peach Party<p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu9hpWNrx0DwIV5kOhIXufui7grcmCv-WDHIG1vgNcdXqGjCHf2hIdOh3KfIbaQpIT6v9E2rPYqAFcyFwE3qwUuLKBrasTd1pmTDCzT7y_ylCVRL4Ugv59FO9r6efRl0KlmYQQgSXxIbvfX3UI_q8QkpYkq3tWnxZMg84YvLreC7HkD3SEs18UimHTSJq/s2016/IMG_6327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu9hpWNrx0DwIV5kOhIXufui7grcmCv-WDHIG1vgNcdXqGjCHf2hIdOh3KfIbaQpIT6v9E2rPYqAFcyFwE3qwUuLKBrasTd1pmTDCzT7y_ylCVRL4Ugv59FO9r6efRl0KlmYQQgSXxIbvfX3UI_q8QkpYkq3tWnxZMg84YvLreC7HkD3SEs18UimHTSJq/w300-h400/IMG_6327.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Welcome to 2024! I write this from the liminal week between Christmas and the new year. Some folks get restless during this time, or mind that they forget what day of the week it is. Others return to work and life as usual. Yet others, and I count myself in this last lucky camp, relish the quiet long chance to say goodbye to the year not in a moment or a night but for a solid week. I’m looking back at the good moments, good books, good films, and holding those close. The challenges certainly come, but they don’t need any extra airtime. And I’m happy to be traveling to see my family right now. </span></span></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-961fb5bd-7fff-d3ed-08c3-470ed81c0229"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">My dad was kind enough to save me two cans of Blake’s Hard Cider’s Peach Party. I shared some with him and also one with my mom, and I so enjoyed getting their reactions as well as my own. Consider this review a Collins family special. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here is a list of all previous reviews of Blake’s Hard Ciders on the blog.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Apple Lantern: </span><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-reviews-blakes-hard-ciders-apple.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-reviews-blakes-hard-ciders-apple.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">El Chavo (habanero and mango): </span><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/11/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/11/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Black Philip(cranberry and blood orange): </span><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/04/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-black.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/04/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-black.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Tonic (cucumber & ginger): </span><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/03/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/03/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Grizzly Pear(pear, prickly pear cactus, & elderflower):</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/05/very-perry-may-pt-5-e-z-orchards.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: black; font-family: georgia;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/05/very-perry-may-pt-5-e-z-orchards.html</span></span></a></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Snapdragon (rum raisins): </span><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/11/cider-review-blakes-hard-ciders.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/11/cider-review-blakes-hard-ciders.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Wakefire (cider with sour cherries and orange peel): </span><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/09/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/09/cider-review-blakes-hard-cider-companys.html</span></a></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">It’s easy to learn more about Blake’s Hard Cider Company on the website: </span><a href="http://www.blakeshardcider.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: black; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">http://www.blakeshardcider.com/</span></a></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’ll include the official description for the Peach Party, so we can see what exactly Blake’s is offering here!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span></p><blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peach Party Peach and Blackberry Get ready to groove with the goodness of sweet peach, bold blackberry, and mellow apple. It’s all peach and love at this party.</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">6.5% ABV</span></span></p></blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2hjFiH4KnoBugQK_lB7lWBiGNXeiRQiTFkEgGFncc_lEnFg3Y1oGb78UTkV2UOBMMkVS0QWV5fozekhhd8HgIZMXJSRA9piI-f7zmnD_s0kdVCkyDtqbkzPx45Ye-cZW26BZDNFsA6us9SV2ahqYKYyiIRvf4mvmZ1f-KmKytJD1oSdgZ8cYpKsFCSjk/s2016/IMG_6329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2hjFiH4KnoBugQK_lB7lWBiGNXeiRQiTFkEgGFncc_lEnFg3Y1oGb78UTkV2UOBMMkVS0QWV5fozekhhd8HgIZMXJSRA9piI-f7zmnD_s0kdVCkyDtqbkzPx45Ye-cZW26BZDNFsA6us9SV2ahqYKYyiIRvf4mvmZ1f-KmKytJD1oSdgZ8cYpKsFCSjk/w300-h400/IMG_6329.jpg" width="300" /></a></div></span></div></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: gentle blush pink, brilliant, few bubbles</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I see a lot of gentle blackberry and apple influence in this color. It’s a delicate blush pink with total brilliance. There are only a few little bubbles in the mix. What a lovely lovely cider. It makes me think of Spring already.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Creamy and peachy with a background of apple and blackberry</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Peach Party lives up to it’s name with a fun and enticing aroma. It smells creamy and peachy almost like a Peach Melba. As I bring the glass to my nose there are also elements of citrus and sweetness in its nose.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Sweet</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider is unambiguously sweet like peach candy but with a fun citric acid zing!</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: peach, apple, vibrant fruit, high acid</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Like with the aroma, I find Blake named this cider aptly. It is indeed a Peach Party! That’s the dominant flavor on the palate. I don’t detect a ton of blackberry flavor, but I’m happy to report that the whole experience is supported on a firm backbone of apple.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Peach Party brings lots of acid and medium intensity of bubble to the drinking experience. The cider has a clean fermentation with loads of fresh very vibrant fruit flavor. It’s got a big mouthfeel as well. On two different evenings, I shared this one with my folks and both quite liked it. Our collective experience is that it’s a super approachable and friendly cider. Fans of sweetness will find it sessionable to boot. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">One evening of this was paired with a tense film about the end of the world and the other night it was shared with college basketball. Both worked well, but I think its best pairing might be popcorn and comedy or perhaps a bonfire!</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s to a wonderful 2024. Cheers!</span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Gk7N5jvE0w4c5ZnqRtyUHuMt2u9NAjokHPNSpYHhta3Q9V0ZG6iWXF2PU6MOZwjzP86_6a7j0SgUswMPsVDJuaKJ6CMzq4ZpSuetUy0Tvp_-y82lgXY6lQCCaGEjG0pT23t8BHVlrsVeG2klUdO__Qdsw7gU-gXLAf5iXfpZDPmNSAoeayov3_7HaxwR/s2016/IMG_6328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Gk7N5jvE0w4c5ZnqRtyUHuMt2u9NAjokHPNSpYHhta3Q9V0ZG6iWXF2PU6MOZwjzP86_6a7j0SgUswMPsVDJuaKJ6CMzq4ZpSuetUy0Tvp_-y82lgXY6lQCCaGEjG0pT23t8BHVlrsVeG2klUdO__Qdsw7gU-gXLAf5iXfpZDPmNSAoeayov3_7HaxwR/w300-h400/IMG_6328.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><p></p><div><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-83342869929616628492023-12-25T22:00:00.000-08:002023-12-25T22:00:00.128-08:00Top 10 Favorite Ciders in 2023<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1KXiDbvFxC_8Bqf9wXPtft0a2fUGV8_Lss1tgNKfZcGSi30skHVCFdRuu5XoYTroapL9Rd_GsZHu-2cyXZQZeEc4lbYmvk_3tp0NWPdDO7c7QnpKarp8otUnH6bs-RN399H7GHhK4fplFNP7ZWuoo5UZNnOb62czoVkay4uVQ2aR7FwipmsRmDsNN8kC/s3264/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1KXiDbvFxC_8Bqf9wXPtft0a2fUGV8_Lss1tgNKfZcGSi30skHVCFdRuu5XoYTroapL9Rd_GsZHu-2cyXZQZeEc4lbYmvk_3tp0NWPdDO7c7QnpKarp8otUnH6bs-RN399H7GHhK4fplFNP7ZWuoo5UZNnOb62czoVkay4uVQ2aR7FwipmsRmDsNN8kC/w300-h400/IMG_1984.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Winter Solstice has come and gone but we’re still in the dark days of the year but hopefully accompanied by good friends and festive meals with delicious ciders. I can scarcely believe that this is my 11th year of sharing a list of my favorite ten ciders to celebrate the coming of a new year. No matter what sort of year it’s been, I do enjoy settling in to think about the ciders that have delighted and surprised me the most. </span></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are all of my earlier gatherings of favorite ciders, year by year.<br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2022: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/12/">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/12/</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2021 Top 5: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/my-favorite-5-ciders-of-">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/my-favorite-5-ciders-of-</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="http://2021.html">2021.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2021: My 10-5 countdown: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/5-of-my-favorite-10-ciders-of-2021.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/12/5-of-my-favorite-10-ciders-of-2021.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2020: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2020.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2020.html<br /></a></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2019: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/12/my-10-favourite-ciders-of-2019.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/12/my-10-favourite-ciders-of-2019.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2018: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/my-favourite-10-ciders-of-2018.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/my-favourite-10-ciders-of-2018.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2017: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2017.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2017.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2016: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2016.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2016.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2015: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2015.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2015.html<br /></a></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2014: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2014.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2014.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">And the one that started it all, 2013: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2013/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2013.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2013/12/my-10-favorite-ciders-of-2013.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s a short recap of how it works. I only choose one cider per company, because my tastes are consistent enough that there would be many fewer cideries celebrated otherwise. I’m only human! My tastes belong to me, and I don’t think everyone would make the same choices. Still I want to spread the love to as many different cideries each year as I can. I can choose any cider I’ve reviewed in 2023. Lastly, I’ll quote from last year, “I want to reiterate that these are my favorites; these are just ten ciders that wowed me the most this past year.” </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdbR6GtJu0TOYwalsTr5AuCRvDDgcs3xI-A5UWubGFjZ47DugrnxAVwvXTve_JXCWXbqjgNkqmnazkknSI8GL4IpXXY59BrQ7FipkPTBpuStQAe8uBFCfjJQgMHN1qMij-xPqq44MrNTiiW4qbIxDuY1jx_huBbpwZTBDu-7mAheOfGyXInI_77UUxuYy6/s1544/IMG_6152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1160" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdbR6GtJu0TOYwalsTr5AuCRvDDgcs3xI-A5UWubGFjZ47DugrnxAVwvXTve_JXCWXbqjgNkqmnazkknSI8GL4IpXXY59BrQ7FipkPTBpuStQAe8uBFCfjJQgMHN1qMij-xPqq44MrNTiiW4qbIxDuY1jx_huBbpwZTBDu-7mAheOfGyXInI_77UUxuYy6/w300-h400/IMG_6152.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Let's start with something different. For the first time, I want to give an Honorable </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Mention to Portland Cider Co.'s Cranberry Mule.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://www.portlandcider.com/">https://www.portlandcider.com/</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html</a><br /></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider got edged out of my top ten, but just barely. It’s also really different from the profiles I tend to like most consistently. The Cranberry Mule marries ginger spice, apple fruitiness, cranberry zing, with just a kick of lime. This is a fun seasonal that I highly recommend! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div>10. Western Cider’s Dry and Dandy</div><div><a href="https://westerncider.com/">https://westerncider.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-western-cider-cos-dry-and.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-western-cider-cos-dry-and.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Dry and Dandy had me excited from the first whiff of aroma. I loved it’s floral bitterness, complexity, and green wood finish. </div><div><br /></div><div>9. Alde Cider from Hardanger</div><div><a href="https://www.aldesider.no/">https://www.aldesider.no/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/07/yesterday-i-weeded-in-garden.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/07/yesterday-i-weeded-in-garden.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>What a treat, trying two ciders from Norway! The Alde Cider from Hardanger was sweet without being simple, and I found it totally beguiling with it’s tropical fruit notes and creamy mouthfeel. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EI_1fOszwwr3DjN1KIhQpmykGFYdX2RstsXXtfSSMOoNJtj7zaO_yBcRGABbrB-nTQazh8a4cSiDcMXIfy8-rZyTAu1GQDTQsRrzyW01c82ON9zndQueBba0u0K4sgCoDyz5m93XeY9p2VbyopeVY7hL7AdAxcabh-yRXQQPJvMFsxgQgB83FATEadAl/s2016/IMG_2042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EI_1fOszwwr3DjN1KIhQpmykGFYdX2RstsXXtfSSMOoNJtj7zaO_yBcRGABbrB-nTQazh8a4cSiDcMXIfy8-rZyTAu1GQDTQsRrzyW01c82ON9zndQueBba0u0K4sgCoDyz5m93XeY9p2VbyopeVY7hL7AdAxcabh-yRXQQPJvMFsxgQgB83FATEadAl/w300-h400/IMG_2042.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>8. Seminary Hill: Delaware Dry</div><div><a href="https://www.seminaryhill.co/">https://www.seminaryhill.co/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-seminary-hill-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/12/cider-review-seminary-hill-ciders.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Seminary Hill Cider has found a fan in me. I love the style of restrained, tannic, high acid ciders that come from this place. The Delaware Dry was utterly fantastic with it’s austere minerality and edge of bitterness. I can’t wait to taste more.</div><div><br /></div><div>7.Aga Sideri’s Bøddel Sider</div><div><a href="https://www.agasideri.no/">https://www.agasideri.no/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/cider-review-sider-aga-boddel.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/cider-review-sider-aga-boddel.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>My Norwegian battle axe cider! This felt like one of the biggest unknowns when I reached for this cider and yet it was completely rewarding. It was part of our rescue from an unexpectedly snowy cold night on our visit along with Norwegian pizza. The cider brought awesome dryness, fresh fun acidity, and some complex tannins into the mix. I think this cider would be a big hit here! </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi89kzZXVEKHsWvQDzT7-I0xL1pi2rrLDTmbJmOaqVKcjtlXoOqCsaFQ8L6aY-hfKX_iGFsGDFERotperOWxIAokJK5JkdD_SnewuEfnGLG3lDIX430EpeLMOFYT3G8-S9Vdy_-dEi4mNaLiV7U-VYpCbEYJRJyNfzvt77lCGhlzHp_CqsdsuyT4HjS0gww/s2048/IMG_5191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1363" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi89kzZXVEKHsWvQDzT7-I0xL1pi2rrLDTmbJmOaqVKcjtlXoOqCsaFQ8L6aY-hfKX_iGFsGDFERotperOWxIAokJK5JkdD_SnewuEfnGLG3lDIX430EpeLMOFYT3G8-S9Vdy_-dEi4mNaLiV7U-VYpCbEYJRJyNfzvt77lCGhlzHp_CqsdsuyT4HjS0gww/w266-h400/IMG_5191.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>6. Big Fish Cider Co.’s Monterey Maple</div><div><a href="https://www.bigfishcider.com/">https://www.bigfishcider.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-big-fish-cider-cos.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-big-fish-cider-cos.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>This cider was part of my winter holiday celebrations with the Tall One and my father last year. I think it’s my favorite maple cider ever. It utilizes apple brandy barrels as well as maple to beautiful effect. I loved the hints of apple butter and baking spice as well as the aromas contributed by the maple and barrel. </div><div><br /></div><div>5. Runcible Cider's Idyll Acres</div><div><a href="https://www.runciblecider.com/">https://www.runciblecider.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/cider-revew-runcible-ciders-idyll-acres.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/05/cider-revew-runcible-ciders-idyll-acres.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>The Idyll Acres was a barrel-aged beauty I tasted this Summer. It was refreshingly dry while still managing to brim over with ripe fruit notes. Check out the full review to see the amazing list of apples that made up this sophisticated and delicious cider. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5tfey4PftqkqqdU7fuRxkYKGhaFutls93dCsEtn4bL7kt8ca6p5fKtvrqgbHxs_8UDvsTTmGpkCJcIPB2T-CBIG1NyY5K9NzcRUTcrIOZZhrUWu9oZWCT_MyhKU27LAL-tEGHQ5uFdZIfDLmDs92DPkO5W-x9HWd17p697ukxV1AXOkeP8VIrGfXJdSU/s2048/IMG_9300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5tfey4PftqkqqdU7fuRxkYKGhaFutls93dCsEtn4bL7kt8ca6p5fKtvrqgbHxs_8UDvsTTmGpkCJcIPB2T-CBIG1NyY5K9NzcRUTcrIOZZhrUWu9oZWCT_MyhKU27LAL-tEGHQ5uFdZIfDLmDs92DPkO5W-x9HWd17p697ukxV1AXOkeP8VIrGfXJdSU/w300-h400/IMG_9300.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>4. Snow Capped Cider’s Dabinett</div><div><a href="https://snowcappedcider.com/">https://snowcappedcider.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-dabinett.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-snow-capped-ciders-dabinett.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>This semi-sweet cider brought gorgeous overripe apple and yeast notes to my glass and just enough funk to keep things interesting. I loved the leathery finish and high acidity. It was a real treat with takeout Ethiopian food, but would pair well with a lot of spicy dishes!</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Haykin Family Cider’s Method Ancestrale Jonathan 2018</div><div><a href="https://www.haykinfamilycider.com/">https://www.haykinfamilycider.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>This is Haykin Family Cider’s second time landing a third place spot in my favorites list, but this time it’s for their Method Ancenstrale Jonathan cider from 2018. This cider was all about acidity, ripe apple, and floral notes. It reminded me of citrus and honey in the best possible ways. Delish!</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Troddenvale’s Countryside Farm (100% Harrison)</div><div><a href="https://www.troddenvale.com/">https://www.troddenvale.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-troddenvales-countryside.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/02/cider-review-troddenvales-countryside.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>My dearest brought me this cider (I am so lucky), because it uses 100% Harrison apples. The scent was powerfully woody and enticing. It had a full mouthfeel, subtle barrel character, and beautiful phenolics. I guess I should stop second-guessing single varietal ciders!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8fh5YQvJgCZMfK_0GM0dbw00c2Auk40SJriFHPO3f9eycMsWWcRiH5VloZmh2Y8KSVxpKdqb8I8prt1mYr-mjiIlkbWqrxs48QR_FfUZhuxcJwEdUPzQoFzb_5oAra9RaBBctsw5bTvHbJe28KjeZNNWA9DC_UnIhtic4FwLmIvDCBOhHpEJ2xaYSHxO/s2016/IMG_7615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy8fh5YQvJgCZMfK_0GM0dbw00c2Auk40SJriFHPO3f9eycMsWWcRiH5VloZmh2Y8KSVxpKdqb8I8prt1mYr-mjiIlkbWqrxs48QR_FfUZhuxcJwEdUPzQoFzb_5oAra9RaBBctsw5bTvHbJe28KjeZNNWA9DC_UnIhtic4FwLmIvDCBOhHpEJ2xaYSHxO/w300-h400/IMG_7615.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>1. Albemarle Ciderworks’ Brut D’Albemarle Hewes Crab</div><div><a href="https://www.albemarleciderworks.com/">https://www.albemarleciderworks.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/09/cider-review-albemarle-ciderworks-brut.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/09/cider-review-albemarle-ciderworks-brut.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>What a cider! I knew when I tasted it in September that it would be on this list, and I’m not surprised that it remained unsurpassed for the final months of the year. Ths cider managed to bring gorgeous fruitiness, tannins, and perfect bubbles together in a way that simply sang. It was a complete winner in every regard. I loved it. There is nothing like the concentration of beautiful flavor possible with skillful fermentation of crabapples! </div><div><br /></div><div>Looking back, this is an astonishingly strong line up. Two Virginia single-varietals at the top of my list! That tells me I might be overdue for a trip to explore Virginia cider country.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks so so much, cider friends! I didn’t get to see nearly enough of you in person this year, but know that I’m so grateful for everyone in our little corner of the world. May your Winters be peaceful with time for rest and may Spring come gently this year. I hope our paths can cross in 2024. Until next time, cheers!</div></span></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-45557807693453895212023-12-18T22:30:00.000-08:002023-12-18T22:30:00.134-08:00Cider Review: Portland Cider Co.'s Cranberry Mule<div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj-hzDr2TNdke7UdaggR61zKS-y4fcFXUbOOEbSbPWgUfHIJmCx_Jq1zPqEqTQ2K_difANfNPcjqCZAmP1AgBYxKf2g_TtBcNbaz43ewgmF9T9C30O0_Ad4PJZ1WZHZ-hBZMZVBGTy6Vg9i4GPTzjTO1v8NkW_I8CkUYb-bQ1-iVlvrZyKEgJZ59ICk58/s2016/IMG_6149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWj-hzDr2TNdke7UdaggR61zKS-y4fcFXUbOOEbSbPWgUfHIJmCx_Jq1zPqEqTQ2K_difANfNPcjqCZAmP1AgBYxKf2g_TtBcNbaz43ewgmF9T9C30O0_Ad4PJZ1WZHZ-hBZMZVBGTy6Vg9i4GPTzjTO1v8NkW_I8CkUYb-bQ1-iVlvrZyKEgJZ59ICk58/w300-h400/IMG_6149.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">This past week, I took two and a half days for a writer’s retreat at a local non-profit: Saltonstall Foundation for the Arts. It was incredible. I wrote, edited, hiked, read and absorbed so much quiet. What a wonderful opportunity. I kept it very simple. I set a few reasonable goals for my time, downloaded a few podcast episodes related to writing and relevant research topics for the project, brought two fun reading books and one writing book with me and brought a laptop with my project. I highly recommend it or doing something like it for yourself if you want to move a project ahead and take time for yourself simultaneously. </span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">If you’re curious about what I’m writing, I recommend patience. It’s not cider related, but I’ve been working on the project for about 10 months so far. It still needs many stages of work, but I can now see the shape of the whole project. That feels good.</span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">If you want to read more about Saltonstall, apply for a residency in 2024, or support their programs, please visit here: </span><a href="https://www.saltonstall.org/about-us/about-saltonstall/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">https://www.saltonstall.org/about-us/about-saltonstall/</span></a></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Before I left, I knew I wanted to have a fun and complex cider with a simple snack and some Star Trek Discovery (I’m just starting the first season). I was happy to reach for Portland Cider Co.’s Cranberry Mule to accompany my spiced popcorn!</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’ve reviewed many Portland Cider Co. beverages over the years, and many of my earlier entries give more background on this Oregon cidery. Check out the full list below. </span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Imperial Abbey Apple: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/11/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/11/cider-review-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bloody Hell: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Lemon-Lime Ciderade: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Crangerine: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Razzberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peach Berry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Kinda Dry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cranberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html</a></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pumpkin Spice: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html</a></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple Rose: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">This is where to find Portland Cider Co. online: </span><a href="https://www.portlandcider.com/home" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">https://www.portlandcider.com/home</span></a></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how Portland Cider Co. describes the the Cranberry Mule:</span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span></div><blockquote><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Vibrant Cranberries Sparkle<br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ripe cranberries, juicy lime, and a hint of fresh ginger sing in this cocktail-inspired cider. Pouring a vibrant ruby hue, every pint adds a sparkle to your festivities.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tasting Notes<br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Subtle apple notes, ripe cranberry, citrus and ginger zest nose, bright lemon tang, earthy ginger, and a tart, fresh finish.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pairing Suggestions<br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Roasted turkey, brie, pumpkin pie, honey baked ham, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">6% ABV</span></span></div></blockquote><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a seasonal release for them, available from November through January.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiua47uRPIZ2hq3btMaA8ccMsxWNpzhiGWNF3Jz_-0i3wTnN4s_YFVj7NlEkMhSLhO8YeUI2opcVHkghteTnfGzq5-GipnK2F8XkL-KSyLDmrFH6DTVexcSLfgRTXUAtW3we9-dBBHON6Se-88Qi7L3Cy8vyAXU4Rgp7RW0-4PBtJweFHscStZmfHqkLBTn/s2016/IMG_6150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiua47uRPIZ2hq3btMaA8ccMsxWNpzhiGWNF3Jz_-0i3wTnN4s_YFVj7NlEkMhSLhO8YeUI2opcVHkghteTnfGzq5-GipnK2F8XkL-KSyLDmrFH6DTVexcSLfgRTXUAtW3we9-dBBHON6Se-88Qi7L3Cy8vyAXU4Rgp7RW0-4PBtJweFHscStZmfHqkLBTn/w300-h400/IMG_6150.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: intense brick red, bubbly, brilliant</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a gorgeous cider! Wow! I love the deep brick red of the color. I can see some visible bubbles at the surface of the cider, but not a lot below. Still, I’m expecting some sparkle. The cider is totally brilliant. </span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: cranberry, apple, rock candy, ginger, and lime</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Cranberry Mule smells not unlike I would expect. The scents are reminiscent of the cocktail that inspired the cider’s name. I get notes of cranberry, apple, rock candy, ginger, and lime.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/Dryness: Sweet</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider is sweet but in a juicy, fruity way that’s balanced by zesty acid!</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Tart cranberry, sweet apple, ginger, lime!</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is absolutely like a Cranberry Mule backed up with a sweet core of apple. I think the cidery has done exactly as they planned. I couldn’t hope for a more appealing balance of cranberry tartness, apple sweetness, with two respective kicks of ginger and lime.</span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The high acid and sweetness of this cider makes it work beautifully. The overall experience is fruity, bubbly and well suited for holiday revelry! The ginger comes out more with repeated sips.<br /></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">While apple isn’t the central or more forward note, I do appreciate that I can consistently taste the apple in this cocktail-like cider.</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span id="docs-internal-guid-0c0cba92-7fff-9e46-a501-e00d638ca3e6"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is an amazing treat with spicy popcorn!</span></span></div><div style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxd-SXcd8s2Wdq_ZBluVAJv6iWp9qa1sWOyYQlSTpVo9UClWxDLvHx58tR-BsNo72qRomrhKsRO1qXSdKCtS2r47v_SejwROtvPyg4mzusmatZeaK06cJSW-WlV0_sQVrnfMNbyVW5-CIg66k3bREKF8gxvi0DXtqV2X4KcrUfxpUMq_ldimym9dcC3EQ/s1544/IMG_6152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1160" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFxd-SXcd8s2Wdq_ZBluVAJv6iWp9qa1sWOyYQlSTpVo9UClWxDLvHx58tR-BsNo72qRomrhKsRO1qXSdKCtS2r47v_SejwROtvPyg4mzusmatZeaK06cJSW-WlV0_sQVrnfMNbyVW5-CIg66k3bREKF8gxvi0DXtqV2X4KcrUfxpUMq_ldimym9dcC3EQ/w300-h400/IMG_6152.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-7262506885664512682023-12-11T16:34:00.000-08:002023-12-11T16:34:20.618-08:00Cider Review: Brother Monk Ciderworks' Blacklick Hard Cider<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ9glY-Q266Tk9mln9n6butSmPtT3WY_Eax8jVUdEaUGMQ20u9MYF4Im5HgqvrlB_Bh22_1dLwYdOMYbleXbmKX7inLzZ3AU96g52Na6vJ9cO2mxHvdekHxLtC85t4t6TYYyf6Se3kIAM1SqCIbk_Kv5wQSfLnighefkeoFcg4hN4I2mknnc8hysg-8up/s2016/IMG_6119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxJ9glY-Q266Tk9mln9n6butSmPtT3WY_Eax8jVUdEaUGMQ20u9MYF4Im5HgqvrlB_Bh22_1dLwYdOMYbleXbmKX7inLzZ3AU96g52Na6vJ9cO2mxHvdekHxLtC85t4t6TYYyf6Se3kIAM1SqCIbk_Kv5wQSfLnighefkeoFcg4hN4I2mknnc8hysg-8up/w300-h400/IMG_6119.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m freshly home from a cider adventure in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Late last week, I was lucky enough to get to judge cider for the PA Farm Show. I’ve joined this group for 6 years now, as long as the competition has been running. I like the people tremendously, and I’ve been introduced to some wonderful cideries this way. And if you’re in the Harrisburg area in January, check out the PA Farm Show event! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">PA Farm Show: <a href="https://www.farmshow.pa.gov/pafarmshow/Pages/default.aspx">https://www.farmshow.pa.gov/pafarmshow/Pages/default.aspx</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">One of the ciders I was able to bring home this year was Brother Monk Ciderworks’ Blacklick Hard Cider. It’s my first time ever reviewing this PA cidery. The cider comes to us from Northern Cambria where this cidery and orchard were started in 2017.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s a little info about Brother Monk Ciderworks from the website.</span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Our Approach</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">We specialize in hand-crafted hard cider, cider-style fruit wine, and mead. The trees we planted in our orchard were selected especially for hard cider. This includes apple varieties like Roxbury Russet, Kingston Black, St. Martins, Hewes Crab, Harrison, Bulman’s Norman, and Dabinett. These cultivars, add a tremendous amount of complexity and richness to the ciders. We have taken over the management of an older orchard, which has allowed us to add other apples to our hard ciders. These apple varieties include Winesap, Cameo, Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, and Macintosh.</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Visit the Brother Monk Ciderworks website to keep up with all the cider releases and news: <a href="https://brothermonk.com/">https://brothermonk.com/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s the official description I found for the Blacklick Hard Cider</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blacklick Hard Cider</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This limited release cider is an off-dry traditional cidr made from locally-sourced, specially selected apples. Blacklick cider was barrel aged which imparted a subtle soft tannin note. This cider is a balanced combination of tannins, tartness, and moderate sweetness. 6.5% ABV.</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3RutbFqyIUX5AxOMA4ukF-yEccYPOE6L-1swsyhrNRFfchmThuSN0X_kR4-kgPoBgNGlK5iHo3KaO7GgiauJiDgkcztgvd-8T3NgbNTynrB5PwNQE2_vtbaypnYYLc-Qox0XCFH4uXFbR-bickxttUXoc-aw_wiYYdNmLew2_PbJeMEBbl11rFtWGdE1/s2016/IMG_6123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3RutbFqyIUX5AxOMA4ukF-yEccYPOE6L-1swsyhrNRFfchmThuSN0X_kR4-kgPoBgNGlK5iHo3KaO7GgiauJiDgkcztgvd-8T3NgbNTynrB5PwNQE2_vtbaypnYYLc-Qox0XCFH4uXFbR-bickxttUXoc-aw_wiYYdNmLew2_PbJeMEBbl11rFtWGdE1/w300-h400/IMG_6123.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: hazy, varying shades of warm gold, few visible bubbles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I found it so interesting that when I poured two glasses of this cider the first came out a more intense and rich shade of warm peachy gold and the second was lighter and yellower. The change wasn’t overwhelming, but it was noticeable.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Funky, barrel, stone fruit</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I don’t get the strongest aromas from the Blacklick, but I do notice some wild tanginess, barrel character, and stone fruits. This gives me hope for something exciting and complex.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/Sweetness: Semi-Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The cider’s label calls it off dry, but for me the cider registers as a semi-dry. That can be perceptually different for different drinkers, so I am not that surprised to see it called off dry. What sweetness is present comes across as more attached to the barrel aging of the cider than other elements. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Barrel, high acid, peach and ripe apple</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The first note that absolutely shouts in the Blacklick hard cider is a wild edge of acetic acid tartness. It’s a rangy and zesty little spike that evens out on the midpalate. That’s where more of the cider’s barrel-aged qualities come to the fore. Yes, it’s still high acid, but the structure and bread crumb notes emerge. In terms of fruit, the Blacklick offers up plentiful peach and apple notes with a background of twiggy green wood tannins.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I appreciate the fine bubble and round sweetness, which complement one another nicely. The cider’s finish is a return of the barrel with a gentle vanilla send off. It is indeed a complex cider with loads going on! I would love to see these elements pull together in a more integrated way; the tannins, acids, and sweetness stand alone more than combine into a recognizable cider profile. I like what’s here plenty.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I paired this cider with spinach tortellini and broccoli and a simple side salad. I think the acid was especially good with pasta, and I’d recommend that pairing for sure!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOVyxbtI3T3QXfnwtfnOIq0MS2WK0hezZ6yhMzUjTK5YEU4T1bwJml9lnM1n8NdO19xi7ufTYjggurJP7SHSd3MQ6J9pEm3_oLVYM4NceJwB2vumbo-8k5DbB4LPQzjS7VE2V_LmbZARxCMbRXgPwdZA0tZQEsFSTy3MkcJOLa4_F3M7dD4Y-qzixOBre/s2016/IMG_6121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOVyxbtI3T3QXfnwtfnOIq0MS2WK0hezZ6yhMzUjTK5YEU4T1bwJml9lnM1n8NdO19xi7ufTYjggurJP7SHSd3MQ6J9pEm3_oLVYM4NceJwB2vumbo-8k5DbB4LPQzjS7VE2V_LmbZARxCMbRXgPwdZA0tZQEsFSTy3MkcJOLa4_F3M7dD4Y-qzixOBre/w300-h400/IMG_6121.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-80708585778806521972023-12-04T22:30:00.000-08:002024-02-25T13:41:25.294-08:00Cider Review: Seminary Hill Cider's Delaware Dry <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-xN54SdK0Dbwgqi2hx3B6AIBxXkBtLTDP93Nrv-fDE03-Wwp7loGejkIEJXm6OYtAhhfhRmF1Qj2CaVkiJRJOrKc16YQvnrIznKrILo4cNHC0XLgBFKFghQip4y8Cuh7Gu_jZhhNmtAEWa8tCDZRRAxfraxfwXga1F_Isq8aqIve3aVMFg1vNR8zepsr/s2016/IMG_6031.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-xN54SdK0Dbwgqi2hx3B6AIBxXkBtLTDP93Nrv-fDE03-Wwp7loGejkIEJXm6OYtAhhfhRmF1Qj2CaVkiJRJOrKc16YQvnrIznKrILo4cNHC0XLgBFKFghQip4y8Cuh7Gu_jZhhNmtAEWa8tCDZRRAxfraxfwXga1F_Isq8aqIve3aVMFg1vNR8zepsr/w300-h400/IMG_6031.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">It’s wet, chilly, and blustery outside. I am so glad to be home and warm. Not only that, I have a plate of delicious pizza and a cider that I’m very excited to review. Tonight, I’m sharing my thoughts on Seminary Hill Cider's Delaware Dry. I can feel the number of times I’ve ensconced myself and whatever writing machine I’m using for exactly this sort of evening. What a familiar sort of contentment. I love the nights when I know that I’ll be opening a very tasty cider indeed. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Seminary Hill Cider comes to us from the Catskills region of New York. The cidery was founded in 2012, but I only got to experience the place and the cider for the first time earlier this year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Round up of several Seminary Hill ciders including, 2021 Beechwoods, Nicksen, 2020 Semi-Sweet Cackling Hen, Tom’s Beard, Spy Who Came in From the Cold: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-seminary-hill-cider-roundup.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/10/cider-review-seminary-hill-cider-roundup.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how to find the cidery, restaurant, and hotel online: <a href="https://www.seminaryhill.co/">https://www.seminaryhill.co/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tonight I’m sharing about the Delaware Dry. Here’s all the info about this cider available from Seminary Hill’s website. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2020 Delaware Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Silver Medal GLINTCAP</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 8.2%</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">pH 3.76</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Titratable Acidity (TA) 7.47 g/L</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bottling Date 6.22.21</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bone dry, floral, spice, mild bitterness, medium body, good acid</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blend: Chisel Jersey 42%, Baldwin 26% Golden Russet 20% Northern Spy 12%</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGHJSadn-GKeGG68o8OmhtafyXWqs9loIiiA6mK7JLJzpYtOkx-CNnJLuqxjS640gzcQdOPH1n5nz8piLYnhEV1xvJATiT32H636q_vQmpCT3yWzl2j8BC75stonaSFyrGSPZ0aHttTrQSqIt7eKs8K7DS-aoY_WtPnLuxLlnZiIh2ADsV4rfTithey5_/s2016/IMG_6037.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGHJSadn-GKeGG68o8OmhtafyXWqs9loIiiA6mK7JLJzpYtOkx-CNnJLuqxjS640gzcQdOPH1n5nz8piLYnhEV1xvJATiT32H636q_vQmpCT3yWzl2j8BC75stonaSFyrGSPZ0aHttTrQSqIt7eKs8K7DS-aoY_WtPnLuxLlnZiIh2ADsV4rfTithey5_/w300-h400/IMG_6037.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: brilliant, intense popcorn yellow, few visible bubbles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider brings absolute ferocity of color. It reminds me of popcorn kernels tonight, but the warm toned yellow can be found all over autumn.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Lemon peel, candied orange, minerals</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Delaware Dry smells amazing and delectable. I get notes of lemon peel, candied orange, and minerals. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/sweetness: Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is absolutely a dry cider. It needs no sweetness to be absolutely flavorful and completely itself. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Dry, bubbly, tannic, high acid, vivid, citrus and minerals</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Whoa. The Delaware Dry tastes so vivid and minerally, it’s almost savory. Specifically I get notes of slate. This dry cider has a clean edge of bitterness, but the bubbly high acid carry it. I find it totally delicious. I’m so grateful for the clean fermentation. The fruitiness is present but restrained; I’m reminded of beautifully ripe grapefruit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had this tonight with pineapple pizza, but I remember enjoying with the ripest of late-season tomatoes and perfect sourdough bread. Both are incredible. I'd also serve it with a creamy chowder. There are so many good options for such a delightful food-friendly cider. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNz1_joz6jFreB3a7FTgri8iOmOj-592lFfmZLPeNz6iRBMy29Bm3y0G5w72c5NMF9tqzJljppEUMidQXvLLrRVXjOxPP9U_uj5Kj877hPs3TH4E6eI_HMFWJFL65r7SY2JciNwLf44NQ_zdSHlOPbCohO-y8Ad55h3kMVRByL7pwxewlW-x5IeQlyTAV/s2016/IMG_6032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNz1_joz6jFreB3a7FTgri8iOmOj-592lFfmZLPeNz6iRBMy29Bm3y0G5w72c5NMF9tqzJljppEUMidQXvLLrRVXjOxPP9U_uj5Kj877hPs3TH4E6eI_HMFWJFL65r7SY2JciNwLf44NQ_zdSHlOPbCohO-y8Ad55h3kMVRByL7pwxewlW-x5IeQlyTAV/w300-h400/IMG_6032.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-13926665262942693722023-11-27T22:00:00.000-08:002023-11-27T22:00:00.144-08:00Cider Review: Portland Cider Co.'s Imperial Abbey Apple Cider<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUfnS0frhqhL50MTF0MYOca1p18fIcuOA_O1GIXhY3mUW9isiCD69W61bsgN9TBqBtanV9gCBjFW55yGgH-PTrxMafPyNglSvsfKiNBWTVSrroe_H1n4ShPmX0priUvh7dF62JG0jurt9MW3tpVeO7eFb2bcxBiZHVlIojKnJ5GHwbaaG7X-j7FlRTFgv/s2016/IMG_5968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUfnS0frhqhL50MTF0MYOca1p18fIcuOA_O1GIXhY3mUW9isiCD69W61bsgN9TBqBtanV9gCBjFW55yGgH-PTrxMafPyNglSvsfKiNBWTVSrroe_H1n4ShPmX0priUvh7dF62JG0jurt9MW3tpVeO7eFb2bcxBiZHVlIojKnJ5GHwbaaG7X-j7FlRTFgv/w300-h400/IMG_5968.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>Another whirlwind of holiday and birthday fun has come and gone. This past week has been full of movies, food, friends, family, dice rolling, and yes, cider. When a mysterious cider package arrives when your house is filled with family, of course you have to open up it up and show everything off. Portland Cider Co. was kind enough to surprise me with a cider arrival just before Thanksgiving! </p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What I know about Portland Cider Co. is that this company is wild for flavor combinations and experimentation. The company uses Northwest apples but a whole slew of additional flavor elements. Over the years, I’ve tasted their take on peach, pineapple, pumpkin, and more.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’ve reviewed a slew of Portland Cider Co.’s offering in the past decade. Here’s the rundown.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bloody Hell: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-portland-cider-cos-bloody.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Lemon-Lime Ciderade: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Crangerine: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/12/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Razzberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/06/cider-review-once-upon-tree-wild-flight.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peach Berry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Kinda Dry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/05/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-review-portland-cider-company.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cranberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-seed-stone-cidery-heritage.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pumpkin Spice: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/10/cider-review-portland-cider-co-pumpkin.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pineapple Rose: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/07/cider-reviews-portland-cider-cos.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Get the full scoop online from Portland Cider Co. directly. Here’s a link to the cidery website: <a href="https://www.portlandcider.com/home">https://www.portlandcider.com/home</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">My review today is for Portland Cider Co.’s Imperial Abbey Apple. Here’s how the cidery describes this release.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Juicy & bright Belgian-inspired Northwest Apple Cider</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Expertly crafted by our cider makers in a unique Belgian-style cider, Abbey Apple showcases Northwest apples fermented with Belgian ale yeast. The result is a smooth, full-bodied cider with a bright, juicy finish. 8.4% ABV</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tasting Notes</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Juicy, bright, subtle banana and clove, tropical aromas, unique finish.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Food Pairings</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Shepherd’s pie, dark chocolate cake, spicy thai basil chicken, roasted vegetables</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ingredients</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">NW apples</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Belgian ale yeast </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Always Gluten Free</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qwHJD0-mGIxWPeyxarc1LC3XeofecyIeZqmXQTnKQW9IS5WDnDPxbuaHmpVkUKFp8A7WvyDfF_9iA6LhibFYn_c0Gwq6CfE5PBLDilrW_wrxrqTOL4vJXEDkMjiXzy8ErwPurjHmqVrRMaG02jqkKt44dyL6V1b3TddhKD0TLfwqQ5lOykejdAr7S5gV/s2016/IMG_5970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qwHJD0-mGIxWPeyxarc1LC3XeofecyIeZqmXQTnKQW9IS5WDnDPxbuaHmpVkUKFp8A7WvyDfF_9iA6LhibFYn_c0Gwq6CfE5PBLDilrW_wrxrqTOL4vJXEDkMjiXzy8ErwPurjHmqVrRMaG02jqkKt44dyL6V1b3TddhKD0TLfwqQ5lOykejdAr7S5gV/w300-h400/IMG_5970.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>Appearance: shining, mild warm straw, no visible bubbles</p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a lovely cider with a gentle warm straw hue. I don’t see any haze or bubbles. It’s brilliant and almost still in appearance. I do expect that I’ll find bubbles once I taste the cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: yeast, cheddar, bread, candied sugar, apple</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Imperial Abbey Apple Cider smells yeasty a little cheddar funk. This is undoubtedly the Belgian Beer style coming through. The aroma initially reminds me of bread but also of dark candied sugar. It’s fascinating! I do get some apple notes, but the are secondary to the yeast character.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/Dryness: Semi-sweet</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider is semi-sweet, but it’s also got some bitterness that add complexity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Bittersweet, belgian-beer influenced, full bodied, high acid</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a cider for beer lovers, specifically for Belgian beer lovers! The Imperial Abbey Ale’s taste is notably bittersweet with a fun balance of these two elements. The Belgian ale yeast profile is prominent. The cider comes across petilliant and full bodied with that heavy imperial ABV.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">There’s plenty of malic acid and apple present, but neither are as powerful as the yeast flavors. I find it pleasingly complex. This would be a perfect pairing for a hot plate of fish and chips. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">As we head into the darker days and longer nights approaching the northern hemisphere’s Winter Solstice, don’t forget to give yourself quiet cozy time to hibernate! </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdIY4QLt5mFsYIydsh9UAcbhWbephAGmRP83TPpy6pIxlr-afDwVCgNvV5ra42FCHFouOsFqEzZgXeMaXDM06JXvXOf_S4MZv6ITiEdqdf4_YcS3K6M1-ym_DUm9_mMIIgjJFWqxOlfu84TAlYsFZghwTatjjZSS-yee-8XITB76PBdjeUcwCYymV7cqS/s2016/IMG_5966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdIY4QLt5mFsYIydsh9UAcbhWbephAGmRP83TPpy6pIxlr-afDwVCgNvV5ra42FCHFouOsFqEzZgXeMaXDM06JXvXOf_S4MZv6ITiEdqdf4_YcS3K6M1-ym_DUm9_mMIIgjJFWqxOlfu84TAlYsFZghwTatjjZSS-yee-8XITB76PBdjeUcwCYymV7cqS/w300-h400/IMG_5966.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-38042772158417922832023-11-20T22:00:00.000-08:002023-11-20T22:00:00.141-08:00Cider Review: Wilson Orchard's Late Harvest<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XL223pqtWUIjFNw_y9bvujptEicNa0MfEN-pBFoxL4wEWGmMMjK7L2EHay7YXq7SgYPiuS1zu6CdIG1DzN096zY8O3USTgo18dwG8XwSOIzHYXch3rgTL2JcaMVkO5KhsX8uX86RvOBAD3DT9-CBNbdNX-RxWTCNMPTxh2-CtRGcXYfiVDMI8GQi9kb0/s2016/IMG_5912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2XL223pqtWUIjFNw_y9bvujptEicNa0MfEN-pBFoxL4wEWGmMMjK7L2EHay7YXq7SgYPiuS1zu6CdIG1DzN096zY8O3USTgo18dwG8XwSOIzHYXch3rgTL2JcaMVkO5KhsX8uX86RvOBAD3DT9-CBNbdNX-RxWTCNMPTxh2-CtRGcXYfiVDMI8GQi9kb0/w300-h400/IMG_5912.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>What a scare! Life without much of a sense of smell really felt different for me. I didn’t like that difference either. Thankfully, it’s back. I couldn’t be happier about it. We have guests and holidays arriving imminently. It’s just so much more fun to enjoy the scents of every meal and every moment. On this last evening before the happy chaos begins, I took a moment for a quiet asian meal with my tall companion and a cider that I suspected will be delicious. I chose Wilson Orchard and Farm’s - Late Harvest.</p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is the first time any Iowa cider has made it onto the blog, and I’m so excited to taste another place. When investigating Wilson’s Orchard and Farm, I noticed the strong emphasis not only on local produce but on communicating the larger environmental and economic reasoning behind their investment in the local. The site made succinct points about their goals. I’ll quote one section because I liked it so much. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Giving Back</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The strength of our food supply chain relies on farmers providing reasonable access to locally-grown food and beverages to the entire community. Each season we partner with various local food pantries and community programs that support our neighborhoods and make our products easily available to as many as possible.</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s a link to Wilson’s Orchard’s page about the cidery’s beverages: <a href="https://www.wilsonsorchard.com/wilsons-beverages">https://www.wilsonsorchard.com/wilsons-beverages</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here is the full description of this seasonal release.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Late Harvest</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spontaneously Fermented hard cider rested on oak</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">With a chill in the air, even sometimes snow on the branches, late harvest is a time for our orchard staff to exhale and start to unwind. Only a few more varieties to pick - one of which is our favorite apple, Gold Rush. The perfect time to slow down and celebrate a season of hard work, a fruitful harvest, and of course plan the coming winter’s Wassail. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tasting notes: Light, fruity with hints of plum, melon, and subtle toffee.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sugar at harvest: 14.6 degrees brix</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Residual Sugar: 0 degrees brix</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5hgNdSu7r-ke_7YuYoGR_fR4EWy5HJfwRYwXHSIcR1sq-G5jjAsC5cf6qQe6nCvn_078IvbrltOCZfnJmdY9XGPrB9pSUKFG7ImpSLSdydl5OOGOx3jBKkZzBOaHkBfXSTQ2iZNyLwIzdidHkd2zmSKx5x9TGmFXRUMT1Ee7Y93VpQ50_aVPwJxhuyMe/s2016/IMG_5917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5hgNdSu7r-ke_7YuYoGR_fR4EWy5HJfwRYwXHSIcR1sq-G5jjAsC5cf6qQe6nCvn_078IvbrltOCZfnJmdY9XGPrB9pSUKFG7ImpSLSdydl5OOGOx3jBKkZzBOaHkBfXSTQ2iZNyLwIzdidHkd2zmSKx5x9TGmFXRUMT1Ee7Y93VpQ50_aVPwJxhuyMe/w300-h400/IMG_5917.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: shining trumpet brass, brilliant, fine bubbles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The color is just so strikingly shiny. I’m reminded of my years playing in band and seeing all of the brass instruments with their shining gold hue. I see just a few little bubbles in the glass.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: white wine, lemon, minerals, tropical fruit, dust, and cedar</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Late Harvest smells immediately like a white wine in a wonderfully appealing way. I also get notes of lemon, dust, minerals, cedar wood and tropical fruit. Somewhere in the mix, you can find a deep note of dark ripeness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a perfectly dry cider, and I wouldn’t want it to be any other way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: petillant, barrel character, candied orange peel, butterscotch, paper tannins</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">What I notice first about the late harvest is its petillance. The bubbles are present but not intense. The cider uses its barrel aging beautifully. I’d say that barrel character creates the headline for the cider’s flavors: candied orange peel, butterscotch, dried pineapple, and ripe apple. The cider brings high acid and slight papery tannins as well. I appreciate its full body with some zesty tartness.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The overall impression I gather is that the cider is robust and vigorous but not too boozy. There’s just a hint of warmth on the finish. It manages to simultaneously be stony and yet pervasively apple-y. The cider’s spontaneous fermentation is a tertiary quality that doesn’t overshadow the apples or the time on oak. Instead the fermentation feels clean and straightforward. This is a lovely cider that I’m so glad to enjoy peacefully with all of my senses returned. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksQPfsHWukYc5twL2J287jcoBB1Okj_bDe6WirE_Ob-kqPv6F0uGndkIrFKQqlschNO_m6E7Y_kACxlBSIXZ_WDrRdmhrnlLDCiB9XBW6svae_jOQD-_Ekc0hjIUmpNxuzoYLIHBGPrC-hZf5HYL-wySUd7iweVEYlGb3EhSMRKG3IhHA0NcdsB6D5-Vx/s2016/IMG_5913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksQPfsHWukYc5twL2J287jcoBB1Okj_bDe6WirE_Ob-kqPv6F0uGndkIrFKQqlschNO_m6E7Y_kACxlBSIXZ_WDrRdmhrnlLDCiB9XBW6svae_jOQD-_Ekc0hjIUmpNxuzoYLIHBGPrC-hZf5HYL-wySUd7iweVEYlGb3EhSMRKG3IhHA0NcdsB6D5-Vx/w300-h400/IMG_5913.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-22377130880689977602023-11-14T06:54:00.000-08:002023-11-14T06:54:00.950-08:00There's more to Fall than Thanksgiving! : )<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlUwd2j9jUE_s-j056DSDgYqJ5FBOhXXcwfbplbmi69FNDZ-B-pb9w3crcn7bYLdao_RmNtgU8ZZzFofDwaVI0AJZmSfFxKxsuyX_NAlaFZWXFUodkRKIlJNdmwiYQc_kOgyre2LuX5V4efeZfAK5_oNOyokR1L38QF6E6ZsoysiP02OIMnu7SuW7JQNk/s2048/photo%201(15).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizlUwd2j9jUE_s-j056DSDgYqJ5FBOhXXcwfbplbmi69FNDZ-B-pb9w3crcn7bYLdao_RmNtgU8ZZzFofDwaVI0AJZmSfFxKxsuyX_NAlaFZWXFUodkRKIlJNdmwiYQc_kOgyre2LuX5V4efeZfAK5_oNOyokR1L38QF6E6ZsoysiP02OIMnu7SuW7JQNk/s320/photo%201(15).JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p>Hey cider lovers. My nose is alternately running and completely stuffy, so I cannot bring a new cider review to the blog this week. It’s such a key time for cider, so I hate to skip out entirely. Everyone is talking about Thanksgiving. It’s a big food holiday. The menu is tremendously cider compatible. That’s wonderful. I feel like I’ve helped contribute to the thinking about cider and Thanksgiving already. I don’t have much that’s new to say about it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-Fum5pcckCl0EOsKqlykp0tcbGPRedGs-5ZTT3bMLebK2Usv2z2_xIxBM7jgkdOS6LM9QebMmlA8mkcROOvxcoAZXl35HOKX27a2-_m8B-fem8IiwYK98RC0PUiWJHMLo8hIfMWxuIO89zaf1Bq5fEwvkFbDt5yccGPibyrBz4X6fmaFauvCTAvQKgkF/s2048/ciderontrunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-Fum5pcckCl0EOsKqlykp0tcbGPRedGs-5ZTT3bMLebK2Usv2z2_xIxBM7jgkdOS6LM9QebMmlA8mkcROOvxcoAZXl35HOKX27a2-_m8B-fem8IiwYK98RC0PUiWJHMLo8hIfMWxuIO89zaf1Bq5fEwvkFbDt5yccGPibyrBz4X6fmaFauvCTAvQKgkF/w400-h266/ciderontrunk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Here are a few Thanksgiving and Cider resources for those who want them!</p><p>My traditional Thanksgiving food and cider pairing guide: <a href="https://www.ciderculture.com/thanksgiving-cider-pairing/">https://www.ciderculture.com/thanksgiving-cider-pairing/</a></p><p>Vegetarian dressing with cider and my 2018 Thanksgiving cider choice: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/11/thanksgiving-ciders-eves-ciderys.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/11/thanksgiving-ciders-eves-ciderys.html</a></p><p>Pairing at my house for Thanksgiving and my birthday back in 2016.</p><p>The plan: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/pick-cider-for-thanksgiving-and-my.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/pick-cider-for-thanksgiving-and-my.html</a></p><p>The results: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/happy-to-pickcider-for-thanksgiving.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/happy-to-pickcider-for-thanksgiving.html</a></p><p>Cider Culture’s Plant Based Thanksgiving Cider Guide (by the awesome Emily Kovach): <a href="https://www.ciderculture.com/plant-based-thanksgiving-recipes/">https://www.ciderculture.com/plant-based-thanksgiving-recipes/</a></p><p>Thanksgiving isn’t the only big event of Fall in my house. I’m pretty fond of my birthday. </p><p>It’s not the easiest birthday to love, since it falls in the shadow of a holiday that’s both major and controversial. The weather isn’t often inviting; the time isn’t easy to schedule; people are often recovering from a very heavy and traditional meal. But the beauty of a birthday is that we get to make its style of celebration and its meaning. </p><p>I don’t need a giant feast the day after Thanksgiving, but I do want to enjoy something other than leftovers for my birthday. Here’s the plan and the cider.</p><p>Dinner will be a Delicata squash salad with arugula, baby spinach, fresh apples, dried cranberries, pecans, a crumbly blue cheese, shredded carrots, radish, roasted quarter rings of Delicata squash. I figure we’ll make a big salad and then an array of different protein options to go on top: marinated tofu, dijon salmon, and chicken breast for the meat eaters. The dressing will be a homemade maple dijon vinaigrette. </p><p>To pair with this, I want a bone dry super sparkly cider with only apples. I prefer something twice twice fermented so either a method ancestral or a methode champenoise. I’m planning on looking through my cellars for options by cideries really committed to aromatic bubbly ciders. I haven’t chosen yet, but don’t be surprised if it’s from Eve’s Cidery, Snowdrift Cider, Eden Specialty Ciders, Albemarle, Haykin Family Cider, or Seminary Hill. Then again, my cider sometimes surprises me. There’s at least one bottle I’ve been saving since a friend sourced it for me a few months ago. Only time will tell. </p><p>Dessert has to be cheesecake. I love most kinds of cake. It’s seriously one of the best parts of being a human. I truly want a maple cheesecake with mini chocolate chips. We’re going to try a Cabot Creamery recipe: https://cabotcreamery.com/blogs/recipes/maple-cheesecake</p><p>It’s my birthday, so I get a dessert pairing as well. If you know me, you know it’s going to be pommeau. But which sweet, rich, layered, fiery pommeau will it be? I’ll probably decide next week. </p><p>I hope everyone gets to celebrate their special days with delicious food, cider, and loved ones!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fOR8NQyClanEHoAXaY1XBqHTZN6_iJVsmQHBi5ka9uCdSRST_yaRAV0NYgIhnrTo_PHfBYzS3-K8qEYZdCxMsvK7X93XoGrv4c2nZ8TbO7LGhEj9RIuCx-4LYEE9N6vy92vur9fzN75juY0eMWDU6ILfuyNuqs-kFOEX8yL3kQUXMfoghj4FBabePJLM/s4032/Awestruck_ApplesPears.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_fOR8NQyClanEHoAXaY1XBqHTZN6_iJVsmQHBi5ka9uCdSRST_yaRAV0NYgIhnrTo_PHfBYzS3-K8qEYZdCxMsvK7X93XoGrv4c2nZ8TbO7LGhEj9RIuCx-4LYEE9N6vy92vur9fzN75juY0eMWDU6ILfuyNuqs-kFOEX8yL3kQUXMfoghj4FBabePJLM/w300-h400/Awestruck_ApplesPears.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-59166467563225161532023-11-06T22:30:00.036-08:002023-11-07T07:17:56.616-08:00Cider Review: Black Diamond Cider's 2021 Redfield/Wickson Crab<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgN2a5cskUZqYJisvV-jGTz_p762iGsW-ev-lVmaz3GDV5crNEmyNoPrn-UHdBTNoMTfIfeRGQ8NGwjUezxDQst1_UA7N1R3ALILKrlB2VB9kZIrjmLVLEgopCRY-qHN5fNfrqVzAyGJlfA1UZ-H8H5A6Yfhte0tXmhQ_8o1d27-FcAdBPzdmuUU7uTbXS/s2016/IMG_5829.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgN2a5cskUZqYJisvV-jGTz_p762iGsW-ev-lVmaz3GDV5crNEmyNoPrn-UHdBTNoMTfIfeRGQ8NGwjUezxDQst1_UA7N1R3ALILKrlB2VB9kZIrjmLVLEgopCRY-qHN5fNfrqVzAyGJlfA1UZ-H8H5A6Yfhte0tXmhQ_8o1d27-FcAdBPzdmuUU7uTbXS/w300-h400/IMG_5829.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This weekend I got to attend my first ever gaming convention. I strolled downtown to enjoy the first ever FLAG Con (Finger Lakes Area Gaming Convention). It was a brilliant and totally overwhelming experience. I played 1 board game and 4 tabletop role playing games in 3 days, and that includes my first experience running a one-off con game. At the end of each day, my voice was absolutely destroyed. When I was home Sunday evening after my game, I needed something calm, mature, and sophisticated for my cider choice. That’s why I choice Black Diamond Cider’s 2021 Redfield/Wickson Crab to accompany my dinner and relaxation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Black Diamond Cider is based out of Trumansburg, New York. It’s a great small cidery out of truly incredible orchard. You can find more background information in my earlier reviews. I bought this cider as a returning member of Black Diamonds Apple and Cider CSA.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are all my Black Diamond Cider reviews. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Moosewood Black Diamond Pairing Dinner: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/10/cider-week-new-york-moosewood.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/10/cider-week-new-york-moosewood.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2021 Black is Gold a collaboration with Redbyrd Orchard Cider(My #1 cider of 2021): <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-black-diamond-farm-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-black-diamond-farm-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Black Diamond Cider's 2018 Rosé: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/09/cider-review-eden-ciders-peak-bloom-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/09/cider-review-eden-ciders-peak-bloom-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Shin Hollow: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/08/cider-review-mountain-west-ciders-sweet.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/08/cider-review-mountain-west-ciders-sweet.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Jaywalker: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/03/cider-review-alpenfires-dungeness-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/03/cider-review-alpenfires-dungeness-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Geneva Tremlett’s: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-black-diamonds-geneva.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-black-diamonds-geneva.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Somerset Jersey: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/05/very-perry-may-with-vandermills-ice-ice.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/05/very-perry-may-with-vandermills-ice-ice.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Slatestone: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/11/cider-reviews-big-hill-ciderworks.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/11/cider-reviews-big-hill-ciderworks.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hickster: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/12/cider-review-black-diamond-ciders.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/12/cider-review-black-diamond-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Porter’s Pommeau: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/09/finger-lakes-cider-week-and-birthday.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/09/finger-lakes-cider-week-and-birthday.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Solstice: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/08/cider-review-black-diamonds-solstice.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/08/cider-review-black-diamonds-solstice.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Rabblerouser: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/09/cider-review-black-diamonds.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/09/cider-review-black-diamonds.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Black Diamond Cidery’s website is the best place to find out the latest news with this Finger Lakes cidery: <a href="https://www.blackdiamondcider.com/">https://www.blackdiamondcider.com/</a></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2021 Redfield/Wickson Crab</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The berry-filled essence and soft tannins of Redfield combined with intense acidity and rich sugars of Wickson Crab create this cider which is full-bodied, fruit-forward and with just enough sweetness to temper its racy acidity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">In the cidery: Field blend of Redfield and Wickson Crab pressed 1 month after harvest. DV10 yeast. Bottled still after 8 months of aging. 20 Cases produced.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">In your glass: Aromas of stone fruit and white grape. Mouthwatering acidity, cherry and peach.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Varieties: Wickson Crab (80%), Redfield (20%)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol: 8% Residual Sugar: 0.75% </span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Knowing that this will be a still semi-dry cider with my favorite crab apple makes me extra curious about it. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjER-815fkHSjKBNTCOl5BwNHy93XLAHr5lGfOhkn2UICWhVN14qxdZxteMba4-0rCom14sPbcMCAL4GhsGlndQtFr24KuCJsfDEJRwuUu8uCdkRyGzKDv6ltIFcx0JD8ILP4qEP-jCm4ZrUyTlrEhMw5u33EywUeHTgSL9IsQf22iHoQ_holZluJ6sMjo0/s2016/IMG_5831.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjER-815fkHSjKBNTCOl5BwNHy93XLAHr5lGfOhkn2UICWhVN14qxdZxteMba4-0rCom14sPbcMCAL4GhsGlndQtFr24KuCJsfDEJRwuUu8uCdkRyGzKDv6ltIFcx0JD8ILP4qEP-jCm4ZrUyTlrEhMw5u33EywUeHTgSL9IsQf22iHoQ_holZluJ6sMjo0/w300-h400/IMG_5831.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: delicate straw color, brilliant, still</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider is completely still and brilliant. The color is a gently warm straw. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: star fruit, peach, apple, cherry & minerals</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">One of my favorite things about Black Diamond ciders are the aromas. They never fade away; </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I’m amazed by the intensity of the Star fruit, ripe peach, apple and mineral aromas. The peach and cherry from the official description is completely accurate. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/Sweetness: Semi-dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a semi-dry cider. I usually have the dry end of Black Diamond’s ciders, but this has loads of appeal. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: fruity, citrus, extremely high acid, wine like</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The first thing I noticed when the cider touched my tongue is its extremely high acid. The cider tastes fruity, with loads of citrus. The particular way that this cider is semi dry is that it approaches sweetly and then goes to semi dry. It’s a still and luscious cider with a heavy mouthfeel. The impression that lingers is one of peach and apple. I think this would be a huge hit for fans of cool-climate semi-dry white wines like Riesling or Gewurztraminer.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaM4meyTnpXjxBBWX-75A1lYc7BtxnJTZnnoYyq1jZ73xo7v3wsglyfyyfOmsIJY9AYtPuCPNK5LCAGytT_YLSDSQ5PbNY_1g4YTcKrW-_DTpRgTut0zFmG5PQGYslXbN0bQWTTgdub2Y0Rg1XdvkjGExDFTTdKxzwMrnqqP_HlbeXCfeFMsWzGQR5Mc_O/s2016/IMG_5828.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaM4meyTnpXjxBBWX-75A1lYc7BtxnJTZnnoYyq1jZ73xo7v3wsglyfyyfOmsIJY9AYtPuCPNK5LCAGytT_YLSDSQ5PbNY_1g4YTcKrW-_DTpRgTut0zFmG5PQGYslXbN0bQWTTgdub2Y0Rg1XdvkjGExDFTTdKxzwMrnqqP_HlbeXCfeFMsWzGQR5Mc_O/w300-h400/IMG_5828.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-17271013441560142672023-10-30T23:30:00.032-07:002023-10-30T23:30:00.143-07:00 Cider Review: Haykin Family Cider's Methode Ancestral Jonathan 2018 <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2wjd1wHT6B6iwiZQdGW5Np8kTCOR84KxVB5gSu_yqRCf3XBWNlmmmVCWpgvmDuY08MgMDWmNn_M_FgkzqPuxdz60x0F2sBLpVGXk15qKQZcYxVBAvdOAMUFe8Y6fP9XUY3DwQ54qQddYIcfsquh4y5IC_NFgwaiSHzsB1_49Q68t39BWFg3QP8SX2Wo5/s2016/IMG_5742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2wjd1wHT6B6iwiZQdGW5Np8kTCOR84KxVB5gSu_yqRCf3XBWNlmmmVCWpgvmDuY08MgMDWmNn_M_FgkzqPuxdz60x0F2sBLpVGXk15qKQZcYxVBAvdOAMUFe8Y6fP9XUY3DwQ54qQddYIcfsquh4y5IC_NFgwaiSHzsB1_49Q68t39BWFg3QP8SX2Wo5/w300-h400/IMG_5742.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>Trick or treat! I decided that treat was the only way to go for my Halloween cider review this year. I bought a mixed shipment of Haykin Family Cider back in the lockdown days of 2020, working with the owner to choose bottles that would age well or be awesome for vertical tastings. </p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Haykin Family Cider comes to us from Aurora, Colorado. They’ve won basically every award you can shake a stick at, and I’ve loved all of the Haykin family ciders’ I’ve ever tried. That’s why I’m pinning some high hopes on the Jonathan 2018.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here are my earlier reviews for Haykin Family Ciders.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Reserve Niedzwetzkyana (my #3 favorite cider of 2021): <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2018 Method Ancestrale Ela Family Farms Cuvee: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/09/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders-2018.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/09/cider-review-haykin-family-ciders-2018.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Harrow Pear: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/06/perry-reviews-haykin-family-ciders.htm">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/06/perry-reviews-haykin-family-ciders.htm</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Finding Haykin Family Cider online is an awesome way to see all of the current releases: <a href="https://www.haykinfamilycider.com/">https://www.haykinfamilycider.com/</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how the cidery describes this particular cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Jonathan apple is one of America's classic heirlooms, discovered in 1826 in Woodstock, NY. This sparkling cider has the aroma and flavor of plum and fresh rain. With light caramel notes, well-integrated acid and tannin, the creamy mouthfeel compliments flavors of brioche and spice. 100% Jonathan apples grown at Masonville Orchards, CO and bottled in 2018. This cider is dry. Aged 12 months sur lees and disgorged by hand. ABV of 8.1%</span></blockquote><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHx0JXiuedjvsOXRbaABuyIbk0LRxOmVIiTyeAWO4Ss-6XC__2csw0SoubmMU_NULH9AjsWvOqXu8kon_vB7aE8JM_zXjceuZProYXRgzrHq9cHLLG4K6o1GrloZmIChThppe0D-mbgRwjaPLdQfo4mUb7OSOSKN4MJiWU6E5R72iEy1Ezvs3b00KeyJm/s2016/IMG_5744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHx0JXiuedjvsOXRbaABuyIbk0LRxOmVIiTyeAWO4Ss-6XC__2csw0SoubmMU_NULH9AjsWvOqXu8kon_vB7aE8JM_zXjceuZProYXRgzrHq9cHLLG4K6o1GrloZmIChThppe0D-mbgRwjaPLdQfo4mUb7OSOSKN4MJiWU6E5R72iEy1Ezvs3b00KeyJm/w300-h400/IMG_5744.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>Appearance: super bubbly, warm straw, transparent</p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider bubbles with verve and excitement. I’ve never seen such a towering mousse on a cider. Yes, it dissipates but a show! The color is a gentle warm straw with clean transparency. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: citrus, honey, pineapple, cherry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">My gracious, the Jonathan smells astonishingly good. Everything about it just sings to me of sweet citrus and honey. Secondary notes rush in with cherry, pear, pineapple and powdered sugar. This is a fruit party of aromas!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/sweetness: Semi-sweet</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I wondered if this cider would have a touch of sweetness based on all of its delectable juicy fruit notes, and it does! The sweetness is very natural and beguiling perfect for this holiday of dessert treats!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: floral, high acid, bubbly, cinnamon</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Jonathan is a floral and acidic dance. All of those fruity aromas primarily translate into blood orange on the palate. The sweetness helps the cider achieve a satisfying body while the bubble help lift and elevate the experience. The cider is semi-sweet and absolutely beautiful with notes of creamy custard and maple syrup. It’s not just simple though, the cinnamon finish turns leathery just at the end. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I reached for a cider I expected to be good, and it still managed to surprise me by being even better and more complex that I hoped. What a treat! Happy Halloween!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDPb41UH069WC_aIZeE-MkTHjtaIED3yISZRfIh6PMoLyRmeJljKGNZKtJUNBEpqnVq-TU9b4pKlZouLPapq2nGLgTiNTkb6SZ4tJbZ8PvUMVrBt8-3XybcDO6K339488r4zbr1ULW56C-OM0-2qUn83T66z7gXb-4IYMq0zFC6AkDps6UAWncQ2kHFCI/s2016/IMG_5741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTDPb41UH069WC_aIZeE-MkTHjtaIED3yISZRfIh6PMoLyRmeJljKGNZKtJUNBEpqnVq-TU9b4pKlZouLPapq2nGLgTiNTkb6SZ4tJbZ8PvUMVrBt8-3XybcDO6K339488r4zbr1ULW56C-OM0-2qUn83T66z7gXb-4IYMq0zFC6AkDps6UAWncQ2kHFCI/w300-h400/IMG_5741.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-46386041828726807332023-10-23T23:30:00.043-07:002023-10-23T23:30:00.138-07:00Cider Review: Star Cider and Blue Barn Cidery's Folklore<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQd-sTakMqymGTwqtLLqAmBEbLTTeXWq-D5fl0lZr-IIwzx8gkucAajVD70z-ciW0d-1ReUMu1Uf9gHfuSZA4NkJVROASpVWsItLkHJ5j8AmgMYQT2YwOczBS4-25o8o63hq-r8nZXc3gDRBHg85Vido74uwVISH55Y4DpgHAc1ml76LGsrW1RFNTVkMX5/s2016/IMG_5691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQd-sTakMqymGTwqtLLqAmBEbLTTeXWq-D5fl0lZr-IIwzx8gkucAajVD70z-ciW0d-1ReUMu1Uf9gHfuSZA4NkJVROASpVWsItLkHJ5j8AmgMYQT2YwOczBS4-25o8o63hq-r8nZXc3gDRBHg85Vido74uwVISH55Y4DpgHAc1ml76LGsrW1RFNTVkMX5/w300-h400/IMG_5691.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p>It’s Halloween time, and this year looks like sunny warm weeks and rainy cold weekends. Our trips to the pumpkin patch might be more hurried amidst the blowing blustery conditions. The time at home with snuggly blankets, cozy candle scents, and pots of hot soup is more needed than usual. This season has many modes, and all facets of Autumn are welcome to me. This week’s cider was enjoyed with a potato and cider cider soup and hot crust bread toasted with cheddar. </p></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Today, I’m sharing my thought’s on Star Cider’s Folklore. Star Cider is a regional cider local to us here in upstate New York. The cidery is based in Canandaigua, New York. That's part of the Finger Lakes, for those unfamiliar. It was founded in 2014 and the current tasting room opened in 2019. I love this quote from the cidery’s website.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cidermaking is not a destination, but a journey. On this journey, cider will continue to evolve as we discover new insights on the science of cider and unravel myths and legends about the processes used to make hard cider in the past. Cidermaking will continue to transform as we experiment with the fermentation process and through the use of fresh ingredients that complement the flavor of cider.</span></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had a great time visiting Star Cider with the Cornell and NY Cider Association Summer tour last year: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/07/cornell-and-nyca-hard-cider-summer-tour.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/07/cornell-and-nyca-hard-cider-summer-tour.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">And in 2018 I finally shared my notes on the Wild Child Rhubarb by Star Cider: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/07/cider-review-kite-and-string-ciders.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/07/cider-review-kite-and-string-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I recommend checking out the Star Cidery website to learn more about current offerings and activities in the tasting room: <a href="http://www.starcidery.com/">http://www.starcidery.com/</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">And here's a link to Blue Barn Cidery too: <a href="https://www.bluebarncidery.com">https://www.bluebarncidery.com</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Admittedly, I know less about Blue Barn Cidery out of Hilton, New York, but I look forward to learning more!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how Star Cidery describes Folklore </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Made with mixed heirloom apples from Blue Barn Cidery in Hilton New York this collaboration cider is guaranteed to impress!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Notes of green apple, peach, and pear give way to a dry Riesling-like finish. The perfect cider for a sunny day. 7% ABV.</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdksSX-WALNhXjXzP75cdTRG3q4gmUH6J3M4zJ2vz0suajVS1bFINqpPgwzE8zgziU_XneRnLkWpnbdOZCJt0S17O5jJ59YXKFrEJSqZDjfmMPqjRtdjT7JuzXKVHU_YuCh6XBkYxxWWCD6OP46eOJoRnTBRI0sFC7Om5JNi9ymjFvb9DBODC1ZbQxDx7D/s2016/IMG_5694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdksSX-WALNhXjXzP75cdTRG3q4gmUH6J3M4zJ2vz0suajVS1bFINqpPgwzE8zgziU_XneRnLkWpnbdOZCJt0S17O5jJ59YXKFrEJSqZDjfmMPqjRtdjT7JuzXKVHU_YuCh6XBkYxxWWCD6OP46eOJoRnTBRI0sFC7Om5JNi9ymjFvb9DBODC1ZbQxDx7D/w300-h400/IMG_5694.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: Intense sunflower yellow, brilliant, bubbly</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Folklore pours with a head, but the head didn’t stick around long enough for pictures. This cider vibrates with its sunflower yellow color; it’s so bold and bright! The cider is bubbly and brilliant.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: overripe apples, tangy tartness, gentle funk</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider bubbles ripe apple aromas with fervor! I love the rich autumnal lushness I get here. The Folklore also smells just a touch funky in a tangy way. Other notes remind me of lemon, wild rice, and mushrooms.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/Dryness: Semi-dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I find the Folklore semi-dry, but it was a careful consideration to get there. I’d be curious to see the residual sugar and acidity.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: Bubbly, bittersweet, high acid</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider develops as I taste it in a most pleasing way. The Folklore communicates with gentle bittersweetness. In mouthfeel, it’s creamy and rich; the fine bubbles move energetically through the cider. Like the majority of New York state ciders the Folklore gets lots of its ooph from its high acidity rather than tannins. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Specific flavors associations that wafted through my mind were white grape and crème brûlée: something round and full. One of my favorite little surprises of this cider was its vanilla finish.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg8sBXNYTs201SyTApHsDXHAJDspexZ8Rvig6behIKXOtBtb-ekpe3Y9apE626q3eeUBwtZ_8fVyewnS0ryH04ffoOWjAxiq_-47hup6X5Fuvw65ZPjjasDwdrjT75CJbabO9J1J375p6y8ASrHE0VQN0KuGprt5oJUxkFLnfP8sR8DgDDkjGr-GoIjbO/s1660/IMG_5692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1660" data-original-width="1267" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDg8sBXNYTs201SyTApHsDXHAJDspexZ8Rvig6behIKXOtBtb-ekpe3Y9apE626q3eeUBwtZ_8fVyewnS0ryH04ffoOWjAxiq_-47hup6X5Fuvw65ZPjjasDwdrjT75CJbabO9J1J375p6y8ASrHE0VQN0KuGprt5oJUxkFLnfP8sR8DgDDkjGr-GoIjbO/w305-h400/IMG_5692.jpg" width="305" /></a>*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">*Tattoo pictured is temporary: a remnant of my pirate costume. Sure looks great though, doesn't it?</div><br /><p><br /></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-70390241263406024762023-10-16T22:30:00.002-07:002023-10-16T22:30:00.142-07:00Cider Review: Seminary Hill Cider Roundup<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctKRB5QPYhN6ihTQBVrGgQpTa7aLaDdQv3OsDyNccNeFQgKkKRrAFJL2s9l-5K2vmKFZj2mJ7ErOzzzheQU9O_qsI_-SpeRGtwM-DxLkZwYqFfZpv1fJCWOcL7Y2vZwQ-dzf-UOyNI1Ru-iBrIM9CKJAg1nSOh6VRygL0SX2biHQupy_vlDRLxzeYNRLp/s2016/IMG_5573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgctKRB5QPYhN6ihTQBVrGgQpTa7aLaDdQv3OsDyNccNeFQgKkKRrAFJL2s9l-5K2vmKFZj2mJ7ErOzzzheQU9O_qsI_-SpeRGtwM-DxLkZwYqFfZpv1fJCWOcL7Y2vZwQ-dzf-UOyNI1Ru-iBrIM9CKJAg1nSOh6VRygL0SX2biHQupy_vlDRLxzeYNRLp/w300-h400/IMG_5573.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I had the opportunity to partner with Seminary Hill Cider last week and visit the Callicoon, New York cidery. They hosted the tall one and me for two nights at The Boarding House, shared a beautiful pairing meal (with vegetarian options), and showed us a complete behind-the-scenes tour of the growing orchard, production facility, and tasting room. And it wasn’t going to be the full experience without tasting a few more of the ciders. Luckily, we had far more sunshine than we expected and really got to see the Catskills at their autumnal finest. If you're curious, check out my Instagram to see the visual storytelling.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">For full disclosure, I was hosted beautifully and treated to a wonderful time by Stuart, Chef Jack and the kind folks at Seminary Hill in exchange for some social media coverage of the experience. Nothing about the blog was part of the arrangement. I’m choosing to share a few notes on a select few of the ciders we tasted, because they were most certainly the cider highlight of my week. For this roundup, I choose to include five ciders that left big impressions. Other ciders might appear later in individual reviews, but here’s a fun smattering of what can be found at the Seminar Hill Cidery Tasting Room.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">First, here’s the website that includes info on the ciders, Restaurant, Boarding House and Tasting room: <a href="https://www.seminaryhill.co/">https://www.seminaryhill.co/</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExsCPGJCuX6Ld8wcoVlzNfN17LvWeEurllhIVlSVldy8M5JQ32hHEtn-_CtIZlN4p4DAtbIpDjkXxjafg8ayIme60Ja-da0VC_TFZS7DUPTEpJjMhb8bXVcuV5P3cYmYpKTTgYs4_LbB_V_3-WH89abzrJ6W9edPArbUOrD4CB8I57tz7_vM4ODdaUWoZ/s2016/IMG_5583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExsCPGJCuX6Ld8wcoVlzNfN17LvWeEurllhIVlSVldy8M5JQ32hHEtn-_CtIZlN4p4DAtbIpDjkXxjafg8ayIme60Ja-da0VC_TFZS7DUPTEpJjMhb8bXVcuV5P3cYmYpKTTgYs4_LbB_V_3-WH89abzrJ6W9edPArbUOrD4CB8I57tz7_vM4ODdaUWoZ/w400-h300/IMG_5583.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">For each of these, I’ll include the official description and a quick summayr of what the Tall one and I thought. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2021 Beechwoods</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 7.7% - pH 3.86 - Titratable Acidity (TA) 3.5 g/L g/L - Bottling Date 7/21/22</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Still, Dry, Unfiltered</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">A relatively low-acid, soft, round, tannic cider. Perhaps the dry cider equivalent of comfort food.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bronze and lightly cloudy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nose: Apricot, Jasmine</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Palate: velvety with mild acid, apricot, peach, and Minneola. Finish: Medium bitterness and generous astringency.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blend:Chisel Jersey 44%, Dabinett 35%, Wickson17%, Porter's Perfection 4%</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bronze Medal GLINTCAP</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">To us, the Beechwoods smelled immediately like ripe apples, golden raisins, and when we tasted the primary impression was one of deep soft ripeness. This cider needs to be still, all the better for it to express the smooth worn wood, softened leather, with good tannic bitterness. I appreciated the dried apricot notes along with papery tannins.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtfnDSrwLTfYuMiZvsQbhZhuJbIkBBqSW7H1i5KoYY6UidDLuQz7GTdz0-SseZmqFj0dpw3e7SgPlGWUAHZQUUtzUY696AVW60OjxWTu3jtf81aAx16x7udKnZQh4XbFzDQykOiSYZRr9NvtNdf6KjvXmrxVt6TVvEVMUIJF-Ae5ueFn_ZN_2OOpp0wRH/s2016/IMG_5519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtfnDSrwLTfYuMiZvsQbhZhuJbIkBBqSW7H1i5KoYY6UidDLuQz7GTdz0-SseZmqFj0dpw3e7SgPlGWUAHZQUUtzUY696AVW60OjxWTu3jtf81aAx16x7udKnZQh4XbFzDQykOiSYZRr9NvtNdf6KjvXmrxVt6TVvEVMUIJF-Ae5ueFn_ZN_2OOpp0wRH/w300-h400/IMG_5519.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nicksen </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 7% - Titratable Acidity (TA) 5.23 g/L - </span><span style="font-family: georgia;">Bottling Date 12/6/22</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blend: Dabinett 37%, Harry master’s Jersey 29%, Baldwin 13%, Wickson 5%, Puget Spice 5%, Zaubergau Reinette 4%, GoldRush 4%, Yarlington Mill 3%.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">RS 1.5% TA 5.2 g/L</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Brilliant Gold Petillant</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nose: Fresh. Apple, spice, deeply floral, toffee, mineral water</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Palate: Sweet fresh apple and spice hit you first. Then the spice becomes more herbal and woodsy (is there a hint of wintergreen?) and the astringency kicks in. Full of flavor, but moderate on acid. Very easy drinking.</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider makes me think of dust in the sunlight from the first sniff through tasting. Alex found it redolent of dried leaves and dark chocolate; I don’t disagree. The cider feels sweet, perhaps even a bit sweeter than its residual sugar because the acid isn’t angular and powerful. The cider tastes dark rather than bright, with a fruity red bell pepper finish. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">2020 Semi-Sweet Cackling Hen </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 7% - Titratable Acidity (TA) 6.3 g/L g/L - Bottling Date 10.5.21</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">A lightly carbonated semi-sweet cider. A layered experience with lots of fruit. Concord grape, cherry, wood resin.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Residual Sugar 1.4%</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blend: Yarlington Mill 32%, Ellis Bitter 29%, Northern Spy 19%, Tremlett’s Bitter 12%, Newtown Pippin 6%, Chisel Jersey 2%</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Zing! This cider rings like a struck cymbal. Though it’s still got some sweetness, the impression is more that of an austere acid bomb. The cider is sophisticated and restrained with notes of lemon and Bing Cherry. We noticed the official descriptions use of the word resin; that captures something important.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Tom’s Beard</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Alcohol 7.5% - Titratable Acidity (TA) 8.4 g/L - Bottling Date 1/6/23</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">A Semi-Dry New World cider with tropical fruit notes and bright acidity. Great with food but also wonderful on its own.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Silver Medal GLINTCAP</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blend: Golden Russet 62%, Newtown Pippin 20%, Wickson 13%, Northern Spy 5%</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nose: Citrus, passion fruit, mango</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Palate: Bright acidity, citrus, passion fruit, citrus pith.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">RS 1.6% Malic acid 8.4g/L</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">For folks who want a bit of funk in their cider, start here! It has a smoky phenolic smell but the flavors are dazzlingly intense with tropical fruit. Yes that acid makes it very much a New World/East Coast cider. It’s very juicy and apple-y with a golden ribbon of pineapple as well. I imagine this one's a crowd pleaser. It’s sweet, big, rich, and thick.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs74yDEPaozWgK-9-qA8G1vv-jd6y6O4AHZ8omDX5YSUWgAGeY_vNRn3sJ4MP83fTDiCUTKLpqWNe95ZVmHm6lDcQyN3f_BUQ2y4xUeOE3wPZ1yU2pl5OXPkSka7k_LjmDeP1gAETyswfYz2FSv3EIhhr7SRU6mJOLZmAfoEiB6xwR2c5fgK3afnSRegq/s2016/IMG_5574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIs74yDEPaozWgK-9-qA8G1vv-jd6y6O4AHZ8omDX5YSUWgAGeY_vNRn3sJ4MP83fTDiCUTKLpqWNe95ZVmHm6lDcQyN3f_BUQ2y4xUeOE3wPZ1yU2pl5OXPkSka7k_LjmDeP1gAETyswfYz2FSv3EIhhr7SRU6mJOLZmAfoEiB6xwR2c5fgK3afnSRegq/w300-h400/IMG_5574.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Spy Who Came in From the Cold</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I don’t have all of the information on this one, but this is a lightly petillant dessert cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I was immediately impressed by it’s delightful high acid. This one oozes golden raisins but is sharped up with a strong flavor of Crab apples. What a wonderful treat to find a petillant dessert cider that’s not too thick in mouthfeel. The overall impression is a sweet cider that’s blooming and exciting but not too boozy. Secondarily I get notes of red currant, shortbread, and the tiniest hint of funk. Single varietal Northern Spy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I think I’d like to go back to Seminary Hill on my own for a self-directed writer’s retreat, maybe to catch the beauty of another season in this gorgeous spot. It's quiet and peaceful. The farm and landscape certainly offer inspiration aplenty; I kept thinking of Grimm’s fairy tales when I peeked across the well- cared-for-orchards into the forest beyond. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyqeTaeZGWN-KmbuvIbUVe9tDPxJpDMOqQaz1IBLLQP_gVF5gIzhJY6bFRCH1IYjZlPUiWVgGedOUH28EPveTiMSDFuXHrgzCnwMAahMtuBVCd8hcARcyv62y0Qz0KMUfvug_SYu61FXCYdEQdrXGgQhwHdmShb4UrKnxc7KQEISXSP3TxEU4kW95RQEf/s2016/IMG_5517.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyqeTaeZGWN-KmbuvIbUVe9tDPxJpDMOqQaz1IBLLQP_gVF5gIzhJY6bFRCH1IYjZlPUiWVgGedOUH28EPveTiMSDFuXHrgzCnwMAahMtuBVCd8hcARcyv62y0Qz0KMUfvug_SYu61FXCYdEQdrXGgQhwHdmShb4UrKnxc7KQEISXSP3TxEU4kW95RQEf/w300-h400/IMG_5517.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-11902231604693955592023-10-10T07:10:00.000-07:002023-10-10T07:10:11.069-07:00 Cider Review: Western Cider Co.'s Dry and Dandy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24mXxkxFg_XjmMAMLKzozohe7C2vGAPflBQO1YNpVDv8x4bGLUyxYzOeV4HtG663CiQnTYZW-AMGFl1ID7vtlhlin7dxqw-YovQHvd8ulzsi9STadS2nUtfmIyRGgA6cQtPWyJIluf14Zske-cKuaVw62crZqN4HHDySZI662-qP2ByBB03HnujhgGdC3/s2016/IMG_5314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24mXxkxFg_XjmMAMLKzozohe7C2vGAPflBQO1YNpVDv8x4bGLUyxYzOeV4HtG663CiQnTYZW-AMGFl1ID7vtlhlin7dxqw-YovQHvd8ulzsi9STadS2nUtfmIyRGgA6cQtPWyJIluf14Zske-cKuaVw62crZqN4HHDySZI662-qP2ByBB03HnujhgGdC3/w300-h400/IMG_5314.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-4e3d94cd-7fff-7c6a-8b44-3ed46cdf051f"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Before I even woke up this morning, I was immersed in ideas and imagination. The brightness of the fall sunrise seeped into my unconscious mind to gift me with notions of lush greenery, hidden adventures, and the image of a blue opal cartouche. Sadly, none of it was cider-oriented, so I’ll have to save these ramblings for other creative outlets. What I love to do though on the shorter autumnal evenings is to let my ruminations cavort wildly with a cider in one hand and a paper notebook in the other. We’ll see how much these two worlds ever overlap in the coming weeks and months. </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Most recently I tried this with a cider that’s been waiting in my cellar for far too long: Western Cider Co.'s Dry and Dandy. It’s my first ever taste from Western Cider Co. out of Montana. I love how the cidery folks introduce the company, so I’ll quote from the website, a whole section called, “Who the Heck Is Western Cider?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote>WESTERN CIDER is located on the banks of the Clark Fork River in Missoula, Montana. Our dream was seeded in 2012 when co-founder Michael Billingsley planted 2,500 cider apple trees in Montana's Bitterroot Valley - just south of Missoula. Now, we have nearly 5,000 trees and over 50 varieties of apples. We use those apples, as well as apples from Northwest orchards, to produce easy going and traditional ciders. We are plain-speaking cider weirdos who can hang with the nerdiest of cider nerds and the gnarliest of dive bar flies. As a company, Western Cider aspires to create an institution of great cider, good times and a life worth living in this far-flung region of the American West.</blockquote></span></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Visitors can come try Western Cider Co.’s offerings in the Missoula, Montana tasting room. I recommend checking out Western Cider Co.’s website to learn more. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Find it here: </span><a href="https://westerncider.com/" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">https://westerncider.com/</span></a></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The official description of the cider tells us lots of meaningful information including the apples used for the cider and the cider-making style.</span></p><br /></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A Pet-Nat from our Orchard in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley</span></p></span></div></blockquote><div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><blockquote>A refreshing blend of Golden Russet, Harrison, Calville blanc D’Hiver, Baldwin Ashmead’s Kernel, Hudson’s Golden Gem, Bedan des Parts, Binet Rouge, and McIntosh apples. Bottled at the tail end of fermentation in the petillant naturel style. Rested for 6 months. Lightly hazy, ripe pineapple aromatics, eminently drinkable.</blockquote><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And the cider comes with a warning adorably put, “The bubbles dance! Chill before Serving and Open slowly! </span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The cider is listed as 8.1% ABV.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA8D0TNKaJSOx6-lB8AV-L5UyVfEljdRBBjOGy9hT2eZQktZFkwmDc-m5cFm6haK4CKVllXSX39k4U8KpIaw6vA6egyU-uUaBLjtOjJ-Am62FpkKJZ0WTSHpNT-Tnznc0Ipu-DwnOZ5_svCp5nnOzOL0D9syPzKzFaRAeXJP4mdZTatJKO6npYOB1UsYG/s2016/IMG_5317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA8D0TNKaJSOx6-lB8AV-L5UyVfEljdRBBjOGy9hT2eZQktZFkwmDc-m5cFm6haK4CKVllXSX39k4U8KpIaw6vA6egyU-uUaBLjtOjJ-Am62FpkKJZ0WTSHpNT-Tnznc0Ipu-DwnOZ5_svCp5nnOzOL0D9syPzKzFaRAeXJP4mdZTatJKO6npYOB1UsYG/w300-h400/IMG_5317.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Appearance: extremely bubbly, gentle haze, warm popcorn kernel yellow</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Dry and Dandy poured with an impressive head. The bubbles are multitudinous and active. When the label said that they dance, it’s accurate. It’s a lovely medium intensity color that reminds me of golden popcorn kernels with just a hint of haze.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Aromas:candied pineapple, cherry, and golden syrup</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Wow! Based on the petillant naturel style of this cider I didn’t expect its rich concentrated fruit aroma. This oozes with candied pineapple, cherry, and golden syrup scents. I’m sure it won’t taste as sweet as it smells just because fermentation will have transformed the sugar to bubbles and alcohol, but what I smell reminds me of sweet things!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Dryness sweetness: Dry!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">My brain wins over my sensory expectations. Indeed, fermentation sciences is real and the fruity smells of the cider do not translate into residual sugar. The Dry and Dandy is dry as promised.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Flavors and drinking experience: very high acid, tannic, floral, bitter, bubbly</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now that I’m actually tasting this cider instead of speculating about it based on descriptions or aromas, I understand what’s happening. The Dry and Dancy is aggressively zingy in that’s fully dry while also tasting super tart! The high acid causes an immediate salivary reaction. Not only does this cider bring the acid, tannins are part of the celebration too!</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">By bottling the cider before its fermentation is complete, it has become an extremely bubbly beverage with tiny bubbles. As I continue tasting, I notice something blocky in the tannins as they create the mouthfeel. Flavorwise, it seems related to a streak of floral bitterness like a powdery spring flower. I really enjoy the strong wood notes and powerful malic acid.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Dang! This is a complex and grown-up cider. As I continue to sip, more notes come to the fore, including mild lemon peel and ripe cherry. The finish swings back green wood and salt. What a remarkable cider to contemplate! I enjoyed it very much with writing and thinking time, but it would taste ever so nice with an orzo casserole and the last of the summer squash.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wqFj9BtDxIfYVunh9U63Fuf1C-Qb7kDHyAW2U9LT9ao3O8zgg_efHI6Nbri3UBen5-f25qDdGm7b-eioRgvWplFczEu2J3j4eSMJalf0nvN3r0_hvj5ebFuSJRom6WAxNIPaA_Qy9laVuHn8v1tUjU5rclqBFzKm1OvFNhXnGtCX09FxszJdD-Lck-sJ/s2016/IMG_5315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wqFj9BtDxIfYVunh9U63Fuf1C-Qb7kDHyAW2U9LT9ao3O8zgg_efHI6Nbri3UBen5-f25qDdGm7b-eioRgvWplFczEu2J3j4eSMJalf0nvN3r0_hvj5ebFuSJRom6WAxNIPaA_Qy9laVuHn8v1tUjU5rclqBFzKm1OvFNhXnGtCX09FxszJdD-Lck-sJ/w300-h400/IMG_5315.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p></span></div>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-15644575414890153412023-10-02T22:00:00.044-07:002023-10-03T07:43:23.843-07:00Cider Review: Penning's Farm Cidery's Wild Series The Continental and New York Cider Week!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF17CvQvTlsKTQxp9w2WaSNkyfBWJ2xHwUTrTecbA4m-VftVEYmvfzGBilpf_16tLghGtsyUzaxXq5F6dyCprRDGFW1hK1nzupLsQ1Epx_v3DhiuC44Smxu1NNHDeMKxJKsDVlh69ybFtZPIQ6dXLW4_f4YEUk6PIzKK-pgTFrhc6GAXiIzQTqS4kviJ1A/s2016/IMG_5237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF17CvQvTlsKTQxp9w2WaSNkyfBWJ2xHwUTrTecbA4m-VftVEYmvfzGBilpf_16tLghGtsyUzaxXq5F6dyCprRDGFW1hK1nzupLsQ1Epx_v3DhiuC44Smxu1NNHDeMKxJKsDVlh69ybFtZPIQ6dXLW4_f4YEUk6PIzKK-pgTFrhc6GAXiIzQTqS4kviJ1A/s2016/IMG_5237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF17CvQvTlsKTQxp9w2WaSNkyfBWJ2xHwUTrTecbA4m-VftVEYmvfzGBilpf_16tLghGtsyUzaxXq5F6dyCprRDGFW1hK1nzupLsQ1Epx_v3DhiuC44Smxu1NNHDeMKxJKsDVlh69ybFtZPIQ6dXLW4_f4YEUk6PIzKK-pgTFrhc6GAXiIzQTqS4kviJ1A/s2016/IMG_5237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF17CvQvTlsKTQxp9w2WaSNkyfBWJ2xHwUTrTecbA4m-VftVEYmvfzGBilpf_16tLghGtsyUzaxXq5F6dyCprRDGFW1hK1nzupLsQ1Epx_v3DhiuC44Smxu1NNHDeMKxJKsDVlh69ybFtZPIQ6dXLW4_f4YEUk6PIzKK-pgTFrhc6GAXiIzQTqS4kviJ1A/w300-h400/IMG_5237.jpg" width="300" /></a></blockquote><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">It’s almost New York Cider Week! This is a busy time of year; there are more people I’d love to see and things I’d love to do than time. I tasted this cider with the Tall One this evening for two reasons. One, this was a gift from my dear friend Maria who is off on her own cider adventures; it’s a nice way to remember a faraway friend. Two, Alex is practicing taking tasting notes for a certain upcoming cider exam in less than two weeks! Many thanks to Maria for this important study aid!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Before I get into my review though, let me encourage folks to check out information about this fall’s New York Cider Week: <a href="https://ciderweeknewyork.com/">https://ciderweeknewyork.com/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pennings Cidery has a limited run cider called the Wild Series: The Continental. It’s my first ever review of anything by this Warwick, New York cidery. You can find this farm and cidery in the Hudson Valley. The farm is home not only to the cidery itself but also a tasting room and farm that grows apples, pumpkins, nectarines, apricots and peaches. I sense a certain flavor profile here! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">And this is just a little bit from Pennings Farm Cidery’s website about the Wild Series Continental project. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><span style="font-family: georgia;">With nutrient-rich soil and micro-climate conditions, it is no surprise that the Hudson Valley region has been an agricultural hub for more than 200 years. What wasn’t farmed, grew naturally on its own. Among the apple trees, we planted in our own orchard was one such wild seedling apple tree. In 2018 that tree produced an abundance of apples that we picked to be the main ingredient in our first Wild Series Cider, The Continental. Wild apples provide characteristics that cannot be found in culinary apples from cultivated trees. Our Wild Series Ciders will come from such wild seedling trees growing freely throughout the Hudson Valley. When we claim to be #CiderCountry here in Warwick, NY.</span></blockquote><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">And here’s just a bit about how the cidery describes the cider’s taste.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Cider Notes</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">You will be at ease with the first sip of The Continental. The tropical fruit aromatics and flavor offer a mood-lifting first impression, followed by a brilliant medium body finish that marches across your palate with a polished texture and intensity from the tannin-heavy skins.</span></p></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I recommend visiting the Penning's Farm Cidery page to learn more: <a href="https://www.penningscidery.com/">https://www.penningscidery.com/</a>.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLxLgJqr75WjaTSxhJREkpa_S04eb0IYiS00OQdAjuBO_iFkWywrpuFtLWJuGvb8azR4h7UHWoA8sbjG0QmKUhd1F6h6EOZf5dZxwuuw1qZfIUQ_8gOp0QRb47OuHULpQJYFud_vqrGdKwJQpZeF9X28XytSeZabMDGZOSCLKOuJ-l1a1C1ZQJ6UKJA56/s2016/IMG_5240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitLxLgJqr75WjaTSxhJREkpa_S04eb0IYiS00OQdAjuBO_iFkWywrpuFtLWJuGvb8azR4h7UHWoA8sbjG0QmKUhd1F6h6EOZf5dZxwuuw1qZfIUQ_8gOp0QRb47OuHULpQJYFud_vqrGdKwJQpZeF9X28XytSeZabMDGZOSCLKOuJ-l1a1C1ZQJ6UKJA56/w300-h400/IMG_5240.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: intense nectarine color, gentle haze, sediment, visible bubbles</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I love the rich dark nectarine skin color! It’s hazily golden with some sediment even on the first two pours. I could see some tiny bubbles rising to the top.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: homemade applesauce, butterscotch, apricot, toffee and nuts</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">As soon as I poured the Wild Series, I noticed its powerful and appealing applesauce aroma. I’m a sucker for that scent. Sniffing deeper revealed notes of butterscotch, toffee, and toasted nuts. I almost wonder if barrel aging was involved.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/sweetness: Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is a truly dry cider. It doesn’t taste only challenging or austere. The Wild Series Continental has plenty going on. Read on for more.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: peach, orange, baking spices, chipotle pepper, tannins and acid</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Wild Series Continental’s flavor comes across as more restrained than bold, but the cider is definitely fruity. I can taste peach and orange. One of my co-tasters got notes of apricots. Secondarily the cider is redolent with notes of baking spices and smoky chipotle pepper.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">In terms of mouthfeel, the cider is petillant with a relaxed level of sparkle. It’s high acid and tannic; repeated sips emphasize the papery tannins and apple bark notes The Wild Series has a light angular body and a lingering fruit leather and limestone finish.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">We enjoyed it very much with our first chili of the year. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFe2_O8YyHFZJeXKTcEai6vtSIUr82PlXbtI7M8IeNGOPHnkxD2jY-MBontFRS_mIshVeQlWhasdd9cj2YXxFzdOi5A_SEEex3X3KQvJ_kEzzTd2iRcnsnCkOfAiO5lMUBtzTsCWMxsmsxZFFeXEZ3DkPAY_tArcCGK2E9EttASCFYDrIIVZ4O9BYic4b/s2016/IMG_5236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMFe2_O8YyHFZJeXKTcEai6vtSIUr82PlXbtI7M8IeNGOPHnkxD2jY-MBontFRS_mIshVeQlWhasdd9cj2YXxFzdOi5A_SEEex3X3KQvJ_kEzzTd2iRcnsnCkOfAiO5lMUBtzTsCWMxsmsxZFFeXEZ3DkPAY_tArcCGK2E9EttASCFYDrIIVZ4O9BYic4b/w300-h400/IMG_5236.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-12622746248353845272023-09-25T22:30:00.032-07:002023-09-25T22:30:00.156-07:00Cider Review: Eden Ciders' Fuzz Ball Harvest Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpvREz3mMKeHsoybu3XMsxGQCIoNHFAPjp3eg12TywgeiO4Ru4X2a_6n2SV36N9jnSqRssVXtscXd2NqgDe94r5VTtdrwa4s9nEQf2ZEPzE_yHUC1yqJrLkUZFeJ6zOIYdk_fTVHDV6ccaXXX78GJCg9qh3ckkC_z-S1VLkJ0aMYn33MrPNPD9kVKNKPX/s2016/IMG_5165%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQpvREz3mMKeHsoybu3XMsxGQCIoNHFAPjp3eg12TywgeiO4Ru4X2a_6n2SV36N9jnSqRssVXtscXd2NqgDe94r5VTtdrwa4s9nEQf2ZEPzE_yHUC1yqJrLkUZFeJ6zOIYdk_fTVHDV6ccaXXX78GJCg9qh3ckkC_z-S1VLkJ0aMYn33MrPNPD9kVKNKPX/w300-h400/IMG_5165%20(1).JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">How can I be poetic about the time of the year when everyone I know is telling me how behind they feel? It’s not just bad stuff; people are stuffing their lives overfull with those things we must do and some of the experiences that bring us joy or contentment. That’s exactly where I am too. What the moment has in common is just the tumbling, “Are we flying or falling?” momentum of it all. I think we’re like those busy, distracted, intense squirrels and chipmunks perhaps, trying to fit it all in before the winter comes. Or at least that’s how things look from here. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I'm up and out of the boot, so that might be part of why I'm going absolutely everywhere. I missed this for the past 5 weeks!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Yesterday, I was determined to get one last important treat from my garden. I gathered the last of the ripe tomatoes, and we turned them into a tomato pie. If you’ve read this blog for a while, you know it's one of my favorite dishes and a great cider pairing. I had a fairly new box Eden ciders too, since I’m a member of the cider club. That made choosing easy. I wanted to try the new Harvest canned cider: Fuzz Ball.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Eden is a fabulous cidery from northern Vermont. I’ve reviewed their ciders many times. In earlier reviews, I include more background on this wonderfully apple focused cidery. Here is the full list of my earlier reviews:</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cobble Knoll: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-eden-ciders-cobble-knoll.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/08/cider-review-eden-ciders-cobble-knoll.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sorciere: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/07/cider-review-eden-ciders-sorciere.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2022/07/cider-review-eden-ciders-sorciere.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Oliver’s Twist Foxwhelp Cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-eden-ciders-olivers-twist.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/11/cider-review-eden-ciders-olivers-twist.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Brut Rose: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-eden-ciders-brut-rose.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/07/cider-review-eden-ciders-brut-rose.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Benjamin: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-eden-ciders-benjamin-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2021/06/cider-review-eden-ciders-benjamin-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Deep Cut: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/08/cider-review-eden-specialty-ciders-deep.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/08/cider-review-eden-specialty-ciders-deep.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peak Bloom: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/09/cider-review-eden-ciders-peak-bloom-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/09/cider-review-eden-ciders-peak-bloom-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ezekiel: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/01/cider-review-eden-specialty-ciders.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/01/cider-review-eden-specialty-ciders.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Extra Sec: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-angry-orchard-super.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/03/cider-review-angry-orchard-super.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Eden Heritage Cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/06/cider-cans-crush-it-eden-heritage-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/06/cider-cans-crush-it-eden-heritage-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Siren Song: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-eden-ciders-siren-song-and.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/12/cider-review-eden-ciders-siren-song-and.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Brut Nature: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-con-2018-pt-1-eden-specialty.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/cider-con-2018-pt-1-eden-specialty.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Imperial 11 Degree Rose: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-january-2017-cidrbox-and-edens.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/03/the-january-2017-cidrbox-and-edens.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sparkling Dry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/06/cider-review-eden-sparkling-dry-cider.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/06/cider-review-eden-sparkling-dry-cider.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Sparkling Dry featured in Thanksgiving & Birthday celebrations in 2016: </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/pick-cider-for-thanksgiving-and-my.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/pick-cider-for-thanksgiving-and-my.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/happy-to-pickcider-for-thanksgiving.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2016/11/happy-to-pickcider-for-thanksgiving.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Eden Specialty Ciders can be found online here, plus you can meet the newest additions to the portfolio: <a href="https://www.edenciders.com">https://www.edenciders.com</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"> The Fuzz Ball was included in my club shipment. It excited me, because I love a dry cider in a can. I want the ease of a canned cider sometimes. There’s not a lot that easier for a bonfire evening or a movie night. And I know that Eden Specialty Cider has made some of the best I’ve ever tasted. Here’s what the folks at Eden Cidery have to say about this new one: Fuzz Ball Harvest Cider. </span></p><p></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Fuzz Ball 6.2% ABV</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">You should see me in a crown. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Notes of lemon pith, soft herbs, wheat biscuits with jam.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Limited Run. Made with the pomace of the renowned Kingston Black, Fuzz Ball is dry dry dry. Crisp, structured, really, truly, if you love dry this is going to knock your socks off!</span></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgErQSRDUM-rjWrQBESEDG0Fi_whZHODnAewWtNWaU2gF1Yu0vzywyPwblbYFx09RvtEeO6IQZyPoaGTs4VLCYzEzcuUiNmcQzYFBsFGEHQDKmno0X3kBTFCy48bsScvNaw0giMcWBFSjXEmdPuN0T5hJWjPZttphPbL5fHZCgpqogEY4Ppvz9eGYi7C2/s2016/IMG_5169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgErQSRDUM-rjWrQBESEDG0Fi_whZHODnAewWtNWaU2gF1Yu0vzywyPwblbYFx09RvtEeO6IQZyPoaGTs4VLCYzEzcuUiNmcQzYFBsFGEHQDKmno0X3kBTFCy48bsScvNaw0giMcWBFSjXEmdPuN0T5hJWjPZttphPbL5fHZCgpqogEY4Ppvz9eGYi7C2/w300-h400/IMG_5169.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: Cloudy cool toned yellow</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">When poured, the Fuzz Ball reveals the reason for its name. It’s a cloudy cool toned yellow that reminds me of honey and dandelion fluff. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Smells sharp, crisp, white floral, ripe apples,grassy, chalk</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider smells sharp, crisp, and apple-y immediately. I definitely recommend pouring it from the can into a glass to get the full aromatic experience. After a moment, I notice white flowers, dry grassy notes, and chalk.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Dryness/sweetness: Dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Completely dry. No fooling around here.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: high acid, astringent, twiggy, sour orange, ripe apple</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Emphatically dry, this cider is more than just what it doesn’t have. The Fuzz Ball brings off-the-charts acid in a super yummy way. The Kingston Black pomace indee imparted some assertive astringence like twiggy young green wood. After the tannins and acids make their presence thoroughly known, I can get into more specific flavors like lemongrass, green apple, and sour orange.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">We enjoyed this cider along with a goodbye to Summer supper of tomato pie (with a cheese crust of course) and vegetarian baked beans. It was simple and delightful. The Fuzz Ball was a wonderful accompaniment, because it lifted and separated flavors with its acidity and bubbles. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Now if we can just find a moment to remain still and appreciate the changes of the season. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpRxYeZEgj7sJ6UmxFO0x8hB7L784pnHCFtYcVQ5iHA6NXuQnpC1xDsddBWlsQwnG4xdDtAxDQTDx_iMUWkSH0PppuV7TYZ9yA_jgfeF_rvDHtWAPLbflvUzTAMGvTPltZEua5rgRfaf-ZkBmx--4kCWoLE7nNEQO-zouS4L8CX8xDpkG8PB9zgmkJ_Fq/s2016/IMG_5166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpRxYeZEgj7sJ6UmxFO0x8hB7L784pnHCFtYcVQ5iHA6NXuQnpC1xDsddBWlsQwnG4xdDtAxDQTDx_iMUWkSH0PppuV7TYZ9yA_jgfeF_rvDHtWAPLbflvUzTAMGvTPltZEua5rgRfaf-ZkBmx--4kCWoLE7nNEQO-zouS4L8CX8xDpkG8PB9zgmkJ_Fq/w300-h400/IMG_5166.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-17142821839907581842023-09-18T22:30:00.021-07:002023-09-18T22:30:00.134-07:00Cider Review: Hudson North Cider Co.'s Toasted Pumpkin<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUnuBbe7TvlZDbmgI80JFzTZnz86O-OsyW8Y2jThzzoB7QuHIEtaQ1e8VewgeTySUgQFpyB87Oe9i2Lw47AGwlUNqG5wAG3MboRQqhIRCR4YfzwoA_wmFN1GolX2It7wX1-0_7KRqaKXwGBh27Vwe4ccQ9YzlfQdTjTvW-hssMtWJVKFc3tvnWmfrnm0WI/s2016/IMG_5086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUnuBbe7TvlZDbmgI80JFzTZnz86O-OsyW8Y2jThzzoB7QuHIEtaQ1e8VewgeTySUgQFpyB87Oe9i2Lw47AGwlUNqG5wAG3MboRQqhIRCR4YfzwoA_wmFN1GolX2It7wX1-0_7KRqaKXwGBh27Vwe4ccQ9YzlfQdTjTvW-hssMtWJVKFc3tvnWmfrnm0WI/w300-h400/IMG_5086.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Today I watched chipmunks in a garden during my lunch break and walked with normal shoes on campus for the first time in almost a month. I relished the bright blue sky and dappled shade. I noticed how good the outdoors looked and felt grateful to get to enjoy these things and notice them as they happen. This moment of seasonal shift is a lovely one. We’re almost to the Autumnal Equinox, and harvest is already underway.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Over the weekend I had the fun of trying a new-to-me cidery! One of my most wonderful co-tasters, Woody, picked up a six-pack of Hudson North Cider Co. for the first time. This Hudson Valley cidery is hoping to open a taproom in Fall 2024 and now is available in some states and shipping to many more. The apples come from Minard Farm in Clintondale, New York. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This is the first time I’ve reviewed anything by Hudson North Cider Co. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Find out all about the cider offerings and sign up for the newsletter here: <a href="https://www.hudsonnorthcider.com/">https://www.hudsonnorthcider.com/</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s how the folks at Hudson North Cider Co. describe the Toasted Pumpkin.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></p><blockquote><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Hitting all the flavor notes we crave in the fall, Toasted Pumpkin is packed full of warming spices and pumpkin pie. Made with Hudson Valley apples, this cider pours hazy golden brown reminiscent of a chilled mulled cider.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">5% ABV — Gluten Free — 8g Sugar</span></p></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrLXlD9dhJ1q-l9Po_3uMkFifOE5UDPyJE9DbowosyXlB84Re6fjqy_dVJ-80zm19URq667cTxahug4aLLce9-wRLvBfcPxgQmg6inz7sy3sN5ciIkPlZj2dSeOsumlXcn395766vRlEnYnS4VO0XM4Tq6gTpQzKEnQ0tlRuuRRwB5L8W85ef5LLQH2N3/s2016/IMG_5087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrLXlD9dhJ1q-l9Po_3uMkFifOE5UDPyJE9DbowosyXlB84Re6fjqy_dVJ-80zm19URq667cTxahug4aLLce9-wRLvBfcPxgQmg6inz7sy3sN5ciIkPlZj2dSeOsumlXcn395766vRlEnYnS4VO0XM4Tq6gTpQzKEnQ0tlRuuRRwB5L8W85ef5LLQH2N3/w300-h400/IMG_5087.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: foamy, intense pumpkin orange, hazy</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Toasted Pumpkin pours initially with a head, but it dissipates relatively quickly. The color is a fun one! It looks just exactly like a fresh pumpkin with all of that orange intensity. The cider is mildly hazy with some visible bubbles.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: Orange, citrus, nutmeg, allspice and cake and cinnamon and yeast!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Initially Hudson North’s cider’s aromas remind me of orange and other juicy citrus fruits. Secondarily, I get ripe apple, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon and yeast. All in all, the range of aromas remind me of a spiced pumpkin frosting. The scents are very seasonal and appealing. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/dryness: Semi-dry</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">There’s a lot going on in the Toasted Pumpkin cider, and it has some sweetness. In England, this would be called a Medium. I’ll call it a Semi-dry here. I think the sweetness is necessary to bring other elements together into a pleasing whole. Keep reading to see what all is going on.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: mild tannins, sour, apple, spices, funky</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Everyone who tried Hudson North Cider Co.’s Toasted Pumpkin along with Woody and me quite enjoyed it. The cider bring mild tannins, moderate sourness, apple, spices, and funk to the seasonal party. For me the medium sweetness really helped balance out the spices and tart or sour flavors. It reminds me of sour beer, but it’s still very recognizably cider, which is much more appealing for me! We agreed that it’s just a little bit funky, but what dominates is lots of apple followed by some pleasing Fall spice.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Toasted Pumpkin has a light body and medium level of sparkle. It was a total delight with vegetarian sausages and multiple different kinds of homemade soft pretzel. What a treat!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgEBTH-HETkaqzJdQibI8fzc4Sjw9YLguMGg8UOSfYKtTX6uIdKgrmjH1-bnZ5Ynvs813m05XnV0z70Jo8ZUjmJyVgzGIxFDdng1NB-D4M8kYM6rVhEG93l6U5_7Ma15KY_OpVDvGE5w2vc7JHCGngM1zvcpihAMqhF46smF8QVVfwWRUuLL0a7nIN7AH/s2016/IMG_5085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgEBTH-HETkaqzJdQibI8fzc4Sjw9YLguMGg8UOSfYKtTX6uIdKgrmjH1-bnZ5Ynvs813m05XnV0z70Jo8ZUjmJyVgzGIxFDdng1NB-D4M8kYM6rVhEG93l6U5_7Ma15KY_OpVDvGE5w2vc7JHCGngM1zvcpihAMqhF46smF8QVVfwWRUuLL0a7nIN7AH/w300-h400/IMG_5085.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523727921583470974.post-23124121128578909422023-09-11T22:30:00.044-07:002023-09-11T22:30:00.135-07:00Cider Review: Nine Pin Ciderworks Apple Pie-secco<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHI2uTmhtHDIFv5EUCguDux2msuplGnEc9pdRbTCxbOHzKKMzSwDpH01RSQDgsjOhbpW1QIlPwzlIqxA7lRCiE8fRH3Og1snA_yn6BONnx1hNk-4CBsvMamP9wlxs3kc6rnnvqvjihlzUion1kXrtuyji4qnfT8p1e863jxeBlSOsgoFbNN021r3s0fdz3/s2016/IMG_5025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHI2uTmhtHDIFv5EUCguDux2msuplGnEc9pdRbTCxbOHzKKMzSwDpH01RSQDgsjOhbpW1QIlPwzlIqxA7lRCiE8fRH3Og1snA_yn6BONnx1hNk-4CBsvMamP9wlxs3kc6rnnvqvjihlzUion1kXrtuyji4qnfT8p1e863jxeBlSOsgoFbNN021r3s0fdz3/w300-h400/IMG_5025.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Boot life continues whenever I leave the house, but this weekend I was able to take some practice time in the house to get used to moving around without it. On flat surfaces, I felt pretty good! Stairs will take a bit more time. The thrill was so real that I had to try a new recipe for my sourdough starter discard. And of course a dessert necessitates a fun cidery pairing! Nerdy domesticity rules my weekends with great joy.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s what I tried: <a href="https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/recipes/sourdough-chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe">https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/recipes/sourdough-chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">They turned out beautifully with just one notable adjustment; my dark chocolate was a dark chocolate with almonds. Yum! And with that delicious dessert, I was very happy to enjoy Nine Pin Ciderworks’ Apple Pie-secco. Wordplay on apple pie plus Prosecco (the sparkling wine) gives the cider an immediate association with warm cooked apples and baking spices plus the delight of a sparkling beverage. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nine Pin Ciderworks is based out of Albany, New York but now distributed and shipped to at least 35 states. Here’s a quick list of all of my previous reviews of Nine Pin Ciders! More background information can be found in these earlier reviews.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Pink Lemonade: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/08/cider-revew-nine-pin-ciderworks-pink.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2023/08/cider-revew-nine-pin-ciderworks-pink.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">House of Dabinett: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2020/04/cider-review-portland-cider-companys.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Cucumber Lime Light Cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/08/cider-reviews-ninepin-light-cider.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2019/08/cider-reviews-ninepin-light-cider.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Gathering of the Farm Cideries (including the Cascara cider): <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/gathering-of-new-york-farm-cideries.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2018/02/gathering-of-new-york-farm-cideries.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Peach Tea: <a href="https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/06/pickcider-review-nine-pin-ciderworks.html">https://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2017/06/pickcider-review-nine-pin-ciderworks.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Blueberry: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/08/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-blueberry.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2015/08/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-blueberry.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Ginger: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/10/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-works-ginger.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/10/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-works-ginger.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Signature cider: <a href="http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/04/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-works-nine.html">http://alongcameacider.blogspot.com/2014/04/cider-review-nine-pin-cider-works-nine.html</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nine Pin Ciderworks’ website is the best place to learn about all of this New York Cidery’s releases and taproom events: <a href="http://www.ninepincider.com">http://www.ninepincider.com</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">My faithful co-taster Woody picked this up locally. So many different cideries create their own version of fall-spiced ciders, so I’m always curious to see how everyone’s tastes!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Here’s the official description from the folks at Nine Pin: Crafted from apples from Samascott Orchards in Kinderhook, New York, Apple Pie-Secco symbolizes life’s simple joys, autumnal aromas filling our homes, explosions of taste; pure comfort. 6.5% ABV. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMG6o9ZQVIwclwAI9qEVdl1reqyTYTAkwXPb3ZeNmFUbTffHhPMatY5vv7EttfX_PCufli95f-myINR_D9RORj_uWWrBoKEH5eikLJzCDrkB0n5C6CZz9edwkWU14kyiIV1VxtAioiiZAkNJCHVsDBUfuEoo080FLrae6-XcauvbZ4H8QllRJEUYoLYOO9/s2016/IMG_5026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMG6o9ZQVIwclwAI9qEVdl1reqyTYTAkwXPb3ZeNmFUbTffHhPMatY5vv7EttfX_PCufli95f-myINR_D9RORj_uWWrBoKEH5eikLJzCDrkB0n5C6CZz9edwkWU14kyiIV1VxtAioiiZAkNJCHVsDBUfuEoo080FLrae6-XcauvbZ4H8QllRJEUYoLYOO9/w300-h400/IMG_5026.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Appearance: Brilliant, brassy blonde, few visible bubbles </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I love how brassy blonde this color looks in the glass. It's too pretty for a can, but I say that a lot. The cider poured brilliant with few visible bubbles.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Aromas: sweet and gentled cooked apple, cinnamon, ginger, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">The Apple Pie-secco offers up a medium intense aroma of ginger, apple and cinnamon. The apple smells mellow and cooked. This definitely gets the autumnal associations flowing. One note, in order to really access these great smells, you must use a glass.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Sweetness/Dryness: Semi-sweet</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">This cider is on the sweeter side, but it’s notably not fully sweet. This really gives an additional level of complexity to the cider’s other qualities like acids, body, bubble, and Nine Pin’s use of cinnamon.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Flavors and drinking experience: high acid, strong cinnamon, vanilla finish</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">Nine Pin’s Apple Pie-secco starts off with a beautiful burst of high acid that I associate with New York and eastern United States ciders more generally. Next, that acid coalesces into flavors I recognize as ripe peach and cooked apple. This cider’s midpalate expands to include spices, mostly cinnamon; it tastes holiday-ish and feels a little rough and sandpapery, The cider’s finish is oodles of vanilla.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">One of the most interesting characteristics of this cider was how the bubbles felt prickly and spiky and zesty. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;">I appreciate that Nine Pin’s Apple Pie-secco doesn’t just go for the same profile as the classic seasonal sipper. The vanilla is a nice touch, as is backing off on the sweetness just a touch. It was a beautiful accompaniment to my chocolate chip cookies, but I imagine it would be even better with shortbread and caramel. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxukzJ2qasbcM6bCUOopoADgNfmu2MWg7i8u1c1KRTJ4N4EJ3QVW0qAm4STqQVItBBGL4F-zpxRcQ982enjsT1b6OzxWsQVhqEy2c9XBz8BCmToihouopDNMNijKGvF0Ql4rss5SO50t8RNSwufvTDhxcvFzClK-Jk4rKNpGuyztXUJ7LGuQ_InrVf5VsU/s2016/IMG_5024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxukzJ2qasbcM6bCUOopoADgNfmu2MWg7i8u1c1KRTJ4N4EJ3QVW0qAm4STqQVItBBGL4F-zpxRcQ982enjsT1b6OzxWsQVhqEy2c9XBz8BCmToihouopDNMNijKGvF0Ql4rss5SO50t8RNSwufvTDhxcvFzClK-Jk4rKNpGuyztXUJ7LGuQ_InrVf5VsU/w300-h400/IMG_5024.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p></p>Meredith http://www.blogger.com/profile/04810398599938820087noreply@blogger.com