Review of Double Mountain Arkansas Black, a single varietal cider from Arkansas Black heirloom cider apples made by Double Mountain brewery.  It is my first time trying this, but I have had their Jumpin Jack Heirloom Cider and Dry varieties.

Cider:  Arkansas Black
Maker:  Double Mountain
Location:  Hood River Oregon
ABV:  6.7%
How Supplied:  500ml bottles
Style:  American craft cider from Arkansas Black heirloom apples

  

Availability:  likely only in Oregon and Washington

Cider Description:  Purple and black on the tree, the Arkansas Black has been grown since the 1800’s. Now grown in the Hood River Valley, this old-world fruit is renowned for its luscious cider. Juicy red apple, raspberry, honey, and a touch of vanilla cap this delightful cider.

Cidery Description:  Double Mountain Brewery and Taproom was established in 2007 in the heart of downtown Hood River, OR.  Founder, Matt Swihart, opened the brewery with a clear mission: make great beer for craft beer fans. The unique location of Double Mountain provides the use of pure and clean glacial water for beers and ciders, while also take advantage of regionally grown hops. Reusable bottles allow customers to partake in a softer environmental footprint, affirming they are part of a sustainable future. Double Mountain may be found on tap and in bottles throughout the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia.

They have 2 taprooms, in Hood River and Portland Oregon.

Price:  n/a (likely ~ $6.99 / bottle)
Where Bought:  n/a
Where Drank:  home
How Found:  their rep contacted me

First Impression:  Light straw yellow hue.  Low to moderate carbonation.  Smells tart and of honey.

Tasting Notes:  Fully dry.  Light bodied.  Moderate tartness.  High acidity.  Low tannins.  Hints of bitterness.  No sourness or funk.  Notes of honey, sharp apple, lemon, floral, and mineral.  Moderate length finish.  Low apple flavor.  Low to moderate flavor intensity.  Moderate sessionability and complexity.

My Opinion:  I liked the flavor profile, but it was a bit too dry for my personal preferences.  My husband was a fan though.

Most Similar to:  many other dry ciders from heirloom apples

Closing Notes:  Its unique to see a brewery making multiple ciders from heirloom apples, as most breweries who attempt it seem to make only 1 cider, from common dessert apples.  I’d like to see them make some slightly sweeter (semi-dry) ones though, as I find a bit of sweetness brings out more flavor.

Have you tried Double Mountain Arkansas Black?  What did you think?