Review of Somersby Apple Cider.  It is my first time trying this, although I have had their Citrus Fruit cider.

Cider:  Apple Cider
Cidery:  Somersby
Cidery Location:  Copenhagen Denmark
ABV:  4.5%
How Supplied:  draft (and cans and bottles)
Style:  commercial cider from dessert apples, back sweetened

Availability:  wide release

Cider Description:  Somersby Apple is refreshing cider made from fermented apple juice and natural apple flavouring. No artificial sweeteners, flavours or colourings. Its uniquely juicy apple taste makes it a tasty and natural choice for the relaxed moments with your friends. Best served over ice for maximum happiness… Enjoy!

Cidery Description:  Lord Somersby is the father of many great discoveries – but the most famous of them all is probably Somersby cider, which was once known as the favorite drink of celebrities like Napoleon, Cleopatra and Newton. Or at least that is what we have heard.

Available in many different delicious variants but the most popular variants of the Somersby portfolio is Apple, Pear and Blackberry. Somersby has obtained a reputation of spreading joy and sunny togetherness where ever it is served and attracting curious and open-minded people from all over the world.

If you are attracted to Somersby – but not exactly in the mood of travelling all over the world to taste one, don’t worry. You can enjoy a refreshing bottle of Somersby in more than 43 countries.  

Price:  ~ $7 CAN / pint
Where Bought & Drank:  a bar in Victoria B.C. Canada
How Found:  this was their only cider on draft

First Impression:  Medium straw yellow hue.  Low to moderate carbonation.  Smells of apple juice.  Served with a few ice cubes.

Tasting Notes:  On the drier side of semi-sweet.  Light to medium bodied.  Low tartness and acidity.  No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins.  Notes of apple juice with a hint of grapefruit.  Quick finish.  High apple flavor and sessionability.  Moderate flavor intensity.  Low complexity.

My Opinion:  This was surprisingly tasty.  It really hit the spot after walking around all morning.  Way better tasting than their ‘Citrus Fruit’ variety (which I found to be overly sweet and artificial tasting).  Yes it is definitely in the alcoholic apple juice category, but for me this one wasn’t overly sweet, syrupy, fake, etc, and a better choice than many other commercial ciders.  As much as I enjoy craft and especially heritage ciders, sometimes you just want something easy to drink and/or have to drink whatever is the best available option.

Most Similar to:  Stella Artois Cidre

Closing Notes:  I don’t think I’ve seen this sold in my area, but I believe it is available in some other parts of the U.S.

Have you tried Somersby?  What did you think?