Review of Rocquette’s XC Exceptional Cider, from the Channel Islands in the UK.  Its the first time I’ve tried their cider, although I’m a fan of English cider.

Cider:  XC Exceptional Cider
Cidery:  Rocquette
Cidery Location:  Guernsey, Channel Islands, UK
ABV:  4.5%
How Supplied:  clear glass 11.2oz bottles
Style:  English cider made from cider apple varieties

  

Availability: Mostly in the UK, but at least some U.S.A. availability (through Half Pint Ciders).

Cider Description:  XC – Exceptional Rocquette Cider has been crafted from specially selected apples to produce a lighter, more refreshing drink.

Apple Varieties: Dabinett, Michelin, Tom Putt, Angela, Helene, Amanda, Three Counties, Bramleys, Red Falstaff, and 10% community gathered apples in Guernsey.

Cidery Description:  Nestled in the Fauxquets Valley in the heart of Guernsey countryside and with distant views of the English Channel, the Meller family farm has become established as the home of Rocquette Cider.

To produce a quality, local cider has always been our dream. From planting the seed to creating a finished packaged product, which competes on an international stage, we are committed to continuing the long established cider heritage of Guernsey.

We are proud of our sustainable approach to cider making and passionate about our brands. We hope that you become immersed in this as you explore our site.

Price:  $4 / single bottle
Where Bought:  Schilling Cider House in Seattle WA
Where Drank:  home
How Found:  Browsing

First Impression:  Deep caramel amber hue (lovely!).  Nearly still.  Smells rich, of bittersweet apples, caramel, and tannins.

Tasting Notes:  Semi-dry to semi-sweet.  Medium bodied.  Low tartness and acidity.  Low to moderate bitterness and tannins.  No sourness or funk.  Notes of bittersweet apples, caramel, brown sugar, coffee, apple pomace, and orange.  Moderate apple flavor, sessionability, flavor intensity, and complexity.  Moderate to long finish.

My Opinion:  I really enjoyed this cider; the flavor was unique.  However, its not one of my favorite English ciders (which so far is Aspall Imperial, black label).

Most Similar to:  Other English ciders from bittersweet apples.  It also reminds me some of Locust Bittersweet Reserve, which on draft had some similar coffee and orange notes (although more body, sweetness, and unfiltered qualities).

Closing Notes:   This is a unique English cider, with some impressive color and flavor.  I haven’t seen it sold anywhere else, and I haven’t seen any other varieties from them, but if I do, I’ll give them a try.

Have you tried Rocquette?  What did you think?