Ciderboys British Dry

July 29, 2019July 27, 2019 cidersays Ciderboys, review British Dry, cider, cider review, cider tasting, Ciderboys, english style cider, hard cider, tasting notes

Review of Ciderboys British Dry. I could have sworn I’d tried something from them previously that I picked up traveling (as Ciderboys isn’t distributed near me), but per my list, this appears to be my first time trying anything from them. I picked it up on a work trip along with a few others.

Cider: British Dry
Cidery: Ciderboys
Cidery Location: Stevens Point, Wisconsin
ABV: 5.0%
How Supplied: six pack of 12oz bottles
Style: American British-style cider

Availability: their website says year-round in AL, AR, AZ, CA, CT, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, VA, WA, and WI (but their locator says not within 75 miles of me in Western WA, so maybe Eastern WA?)

Cider Description: Like a dry sense of humor, our English-style dry cider has a refined bite. Not sweet, but bittersweet in the best meaning of the word. Ripe apple aromas teeter on the edge with a crisp sharp zing. Blow the doors off with Ciderboys British Dry.

Cidery Description: Two very refreshing guys. One idea. Create unique hard ciders blending unexpected fresh fruit flavors with the crisp taste of apple.

Price: ~ $2 / single bottle (runs ~ $8.99 / six pack)
Where Bought: Total Wine (which was an awesome choice, as I mostly picked up singles of multipacks, which are the easiest to pack and allowed me to pick up more bottles)
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing

First Impression: Light amber hue. Low carbonation with foam. Smells of apple juice.

Tasting Notes: On the sweeter side of semi-dry. Light to medium bodied. Low tartness. Moderate acidity. Hints of bitterness and tannins. No sourness or funk. Notes of both bittersweet and dessert apples, orange, and rich caramel. Moderate length finish. High apple flavor and sessionability. Moderate flavor intensity. Low to moderate complexity.

My Opinion: Great! I’d guess 50% bittersweet cider apples and 50% dessert apples, so no, it doesn’t taste exactly like English cider, but its far better than most U.S. made ciders advertised as English-style, most of which don’t use any cider apples. I’d say this is a more apple-forward English style which remains clean (no sourness or funk).

Most Similar to: mixing an apple-forward U.S. made cider with an English cider

Closing Notes: I wish they sold this near me, as its a really nice offering which I could see drinking often, especially with the price point being less than imported English cider, which is becoming more and more difficult to find in my area.

Have you tried English-style cider? What did you think?

Strongbow Variety Pack – Original Dry, Rosé Apple, & Pear Secco

July 15, 2019July 15, 2019 cidersays review, Strongbow cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, pear cider, Rosé cider, Strongbow, tasting notes

Review of a Strongbow variety pack with four of each of Original Dry, Rosé Apple, and Pear Secco, in 8.5 oz cans. I’ve previously tried the Original Dry, but not since it was re-released in the U.S., and I’ve not tried the other two.

Ciders: Original Dry, Rosé Apple, & Pear Secco
Cidery: Strongbow
Cidery Location: Belgium
ABV: 4.5% or 5.0%
How Supplied: 12 pack of 8.5oz cans
Style: imported commercial cider from primarily dessert apples (Rosé also has some red-fleshed apple juice and Pear also has some pear juice)

Availability: wide release

Original Dry: Distinctive golden color and less sweet with a crisp apple flavor for a balanced, dry finish.
Rosé Apple: A clear, light-coral pink appearance and sparkling rosé-wine-like effervescence with apple notes. Light and refreshing taste with a pleasant tartness balanced by fruity notes of red-fleshed apple and pear.
Pear Secco: A mildly sweet pear-apple cider with a light dry finish.

Cidery Description: Strongbow is the #1 import cider in the US. With 50% conversion to usage, shoppers who buy once, buy again. Exclusively available in this 100 Cal variety pack, we think Dry Pear is a great addition to the award-winning line up of flavors in the 100 Cal Slim Cans. It’s a one-two punch; a popular, refreshing new flavor in a package that’s on-trend. To find all Strongbow flavors near you, please visit our product locator at http://www.Strongbow.com. Strongbow recommends enjoying its hard ciders served over ice, for a crisp, refreshing taste.

Price: $11.99 / 12 pack of 8.5oz cans
Where Bought: Target
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing; it was my first time spotting the re-released Original Dry in the U.S., so I was going to get a 4 pack of that, but then I saw the variety pack which also included 2 others which I haven’t tried

Original Dry: Moderate gold hue. Light carbonation. Smells very mildly of apple juice. Semi-dry. Light bodied. Low tartness and acidity. No bitterness, sourness, or funk. Notes of apple juice and pomace, orange, and lemon. Moderate finish with a hint of tannins. Moderate apple flavor. High sessionability. Low complexity. Low to moderate flavor intensity. Similar to Crispin Browns Lane and Blackthorn, but I prefer this.

Rosé Apple: Medium pink hue. No carbonation. Smells very mildly fruity. Semi-dry to semi-sweet. Light to medium bodied. Low to moderate tartness and acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of green apple and white grape with a hint of strawberry. Quick finish. Low apple flavor and complexity. Low to moderate overall flavor intensity. High sessionability. Similar to Rosé offerings from Angry Orchard, Crispin, and Woodchuck.

Pear Secco: Medium straw yellow hue. Low carbonation. Smells very mild. Semi-dry. Light bodied. Low tartness and acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Subtle notes of canned pear, green apple, and champagne. Quick finish. Low complexity, overall flavor intensity, pear flavor, and apple flavor. High sessionability. Most similar to Woodchuck Pearsecco, which is also a commercial tasting drier sparkling pear cider (apple & pear).

My Opinion: I liked all of these. Definitely commercial tasting (ie. slightly less natural tasting, likely due to the processes used, such as adding sugar instead of back sweetening with juice), but plenty drinkable, with some flavor and not too much sweetness, and far from the worst I’ve had. I also liked getting a smaller variety pack (as its 8.5oz not 12oz cans), although ideally it would have only been 2 instead of 4 of each.

Closing Notes: Although I typically prefer craft cider, I think commercial ciders are underappreciated. It seems that most people (including myself) started their cider journey with an easily available sweeter commercial cider, and over time their tastes evolved towards drier local craft selections. However, there are still parts of the U.S. where craft cider is difficult to find. Thankfully the offerings from commercial cideries (such as Angry Orchard and Woodchuck) have improved in recent years, tending towards more complex, drier, and/or more innovative offerings, as they struggle to compete with growing regional craft cideries.

Have you tried Strongbow? What did you think?

Independent Cider Lavender Perry

July 1, 2019June 29, 2019 cidersays Independent Cider, review Independent Cider, Lavender Perry, pear cider, pear cider review, perry, perry review, tasting notes, washington

Review of Independent Cider Lavender Perry. It is my first time trying anything from this new cidery.

Vocabulary: Opinion varies, but in the U.S., most commonly, fermented pear juice is called ‘perry’, while fermented apple juice flavored with pear juice is called ‘pear cider’.

Cider: Lavender Perry
Cidery: Independent Cider
Cidery Location: Dryden WA
ABV: 5.8%
How Supplied: 500ml bottles
Style: American craft modern perry from estate-grown Anjou (common/dessert) pears

Availability: likely only in Washington

Cider Description: Floral aromatics of rose and honey followed by a clean herbaceous pallet of eucalyptus and pear…Semi Sweet…Two varieties of Lavender harvested down valley from our pear orchards were used to create our first botanical Perry. The blended buds from this mid-summer flower are dried and steeped to contribute subtle lavender notes and flavors.

Cidery Description: Independent Cider juices pears from family orchards planted in the early 1900’s. Our heirloom pears, grown in the Upper Wenatchee Valley near Leavenworth, are harvested, juiced, fermented to dryness and aged in the orchards they grew in.

Price: $7.49
Where Bought: Total Wine
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing

First Impression: Nearly clear with a hint of purple. Low carbonation. Smells super mild, of lavender and a bit of sweetness.

Tasting Notes: On the sweeter side of dry. Light bodied. Moderate tartness. Low acidity. Hints of bitterness. No tannins, funk, or sourness. Notes of lavender and lemon with hints of canned pear. Moderate tart length finish. Low flavor intensity, complexity, and pear flavor. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I didn’t like or dislike it. I had expected more sweetness (and in turn more flavor), as pears have unfermentable sugars (sorbitol), so usually they are at least semi-dry, but this was definitely dry, and probably the driest perry I’ve ever tried. My husband really liked it, probably as he likes both drier beverages and lavender. He described it as similar to Brut champagne with lavender, while I thought it was more like a hard seltzer with lavender, as it was so mild.

Most Similar to: Seattle Cider Lavender Lemon

Closing Notes: I’d like to try their other varieties and see if any are sweeter and more flavorful, but from their website it looks like they ferment all their perries to dry, but describe some as being perceived sweeter (like this one, marked as semi-sweet). Also, its interesting they went with the name ‘Independent Cider’, as at least for now it looks like they only make perry. However, I guess a lot of folks probably don’t know what perry is.

Have you tried perry? What did you think?

Double Mountain Arkansas Black

June 24, 2019June 23, 2019 cidersays Double Mountain, review Arkansas Black, cider, cider review, cider tasting, Double Mountain, hard cider, single varietal, tasting notes

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?

Kupela Basque Cider

June 13, 2019June 13, 2019 cidersays Kupela, review basque, Basque cider, cider, cider review, cider tasting, French, french cider, French cidre, Kupela, tasting notes

Review of Kupela’s Basque Cider, from France. It is my first time trying anything from this cidery.

>>This is a review of a sample bottle provided to Cider Says by Beauchamp Imports / French Cider Inc. Although I will take care to treat it the same as any other review, there is always the potential for bias as I received it for free. The only consideration I knowingly made was pushing this up in my cider review cue. I love free stuff, especially cider! Want your cider or cider-related product reviewed here? Contact me.<<

Cider: Basque Cider
Cidery: Kupela
Cidery Location: Anglet, France
ABV: 4.0%
How Supplied: 330ml bottles
Style: French (Basque region), Demi-Sec (medium dry)

Cider Description: From the Basque region, this distinctive cider is tasty, tangy, smooth yet expressive. Cellar master, Agustin Etxeberria has created this modernized version of traditional Basque cider – making it light, but dry and slightly tangy, with subtle effervescence. The fleeting hint of sweetness, is balanced immediately by the acidic cider apple flavors. 100% natural and 100% refreshing. Fermented in the bottle, try this is a real alternative to beer.

Cidery Description: Located in the Basque region of northern Spain, Kupela cider is produced using traditional Basque methods. Kupela pays tribute to the Basque sailors who embarked on lengthy sea voyages with cider in barrels (“Kupela” in Basque), rich in vitamin C to fight scurvy. Its acidity, its lightness and its fruitiness match perfectly with the gastronomy acclaimed by modern Epicureans.

Price: n/a (retails for $5.99)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Medium straw yellow hue. Low carbonation. Smells fruity.

Tasting Notes: Semi-sweet to semi-dry. Light to medium bodied. Low to moderate tartness. Moderate acidity. Hints of tannins. No bitterness, sourness, or funk. Notes of green apple & pomace, pineapple, lemon, honey, and mineral. Moderate length finish. Moderate to high complexity. Moderate apple flavor and flavor intensity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I really enjoyed it. Not at all what I was expecting from a French or Basque cider, but in a good way. I’m not typically a fan of Spanish Basque cider due to the sourness, but it was absent. This may be the first French Basque cider I’ve tried though. It would be a fun cider to bring to a party, as its qualities remain crowd-friendly (not sour, bitter, or funky, and mid-level sweetness), plus it has some nice complexity.

Most Similar to: not any French or Basque Spanish cider I’ve tried, but an Italian cider, Bertilinos, except even more complex

Closing Notes: Although ‘Basque’ cider is more commonly associated with Spain, the Basque region spans both Spain (Northern) and France (Southwestern).

Have you tried Basque French cider? What did you think?

Herout Micro-Cuvée No. 1 Cidre

June 10, 2019June 10, 2019 cidersays Herout, review barrel aged, cider, cider review, cider tasting, cidre, french cider, French cidre, Herout, tasting notes

Review of Maison Herout Micro-Cuvée No. 1 Sparkling Cidre aged in Calvados barrels. I previously tried a similar Calvados barrel aged cider from Herout, Coup de Foudre Cidre Biologique, plus I’ve had their Brut, Extra-Brut, D-Day Commemorative Brut, and Pommeau.

Calvados = French apple brandy
Cuvée = a French wine term for vat/tank

Cider: Micro-Cuvee No. 1 Sparkling Cidre aged in Calvados barrels
Cidery: Maison Herout AOC
Cidery Location: Cotentin Peninsula, Normandy, France
ABV: 6.5%
How Supplied: 750ml corked & caged bottles
Style: French cidre, from cider apples, Calvados barrel aged

Availability: In Washington, through Beauchamp Imports, plus online at their French Cider Inc. website (at the time of this review, they are able to ship to WA, OR, ID, CA, NV, NM, AK, ND, NH, & DC). They also offer a number of other selections from Herout, plus ciders and Pommeaux from many other makers.

Cider Description: Dense and complex, the Micro-Cuvée No. 1 Cidre is fermented for at least three months in an oak barrel that was previously used to age AOC Calvados. This gentle barrel fermentation gives this cider a very fine, fruity taste that is amplified by slightly tannic Calvados flavors on the finish. Higher alcohol content due to aging in Calvados barrels.

Cidery Description: Since the 1940s, Hérout cidre has been produced by the Hérout family on the Cotentin Peninsula on the Northwest coast of Normandy France, in Auvers, where apples thrive in its lush and oceanic climate. They are the newest cidre AOC in France, since May 2016. The cidermaker Marie-Agnes Herout was awarded the highest civilian honor in France for her 16 years of work getting the AOC recognized – Le Croix de Chevalier, Legion d’Honneur (Knights Cross for the Legion of Honneur). See here for more information on the cider and here for more information on the cidery.

Price: n/a (retails for $29)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Light gold hue. Low carbonation. Smells of musty rich apple.

Tasting Notes: On the sweeter side of semi-dry. Light to medium bodied. Low tartness. Low to moderate acidity. Low funk and tannins. Hints of bitterness. No sourness. Notes of rich apple, must, orange, honey, leather, and earth/cork. Long tannic slightly bitter finish. High apple flavor, complexity, and sessionability. Moderate overall flavor intensity.

My Opinion: Awesome! I really enjoyed it, especially the flavor profile and complexity.

Most Similar to: Herout Coup de Foudre Cidre Biologique except more complexity and less bitterness

Closing Notes: French Cider Inc has an awesome cider selection!

Have you tried French cider? What did you think?

Herout Maison D-Day Commemorative Brut

June 5, 2019June 5, 2019 cidersays French Cider Inc., Herout, review cider, cider review, cider tasting, cidre, french cider, French cidre, hard cider, Herout, tasting notes

Review of Herout 2017 Maison D-Day Commemorative Brut Cidre 75th Anniversary Limited Edition, a dry sparkling French cidre. It is my first time trying this, but I have previously had their Brut, Extra Brut, Coup de Foudre Cidre Biologique, and Pommeau.

Cider: Maison D-Day Commemorative Brut Cidre, 75th Anniversary Limited Edition, 2017
Cidery: Herout AOC
Cidery Location: Cotentin Peninsula, Normandy, France
ABV: 5.0%
How Supplied: 750ml corked & caged bottle
Style: French cidre, from cider apples, sparkling, brut (dry)

Cider Description: This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Allied landings at Normandy. Located only 13 miles from Utah Beach, Maison Hérout is uniquely positioned to pay its respects to the Americans who fought so bravely to help liberate Europe. Limited availability and only available on the website. Authentic and full-bodied. The 75th Anniversary D-Day Commemorative Brut Cidre is distinguished by its golden color with orange undertones – and its very fine bubbles. On the mouth, the subtle acidity on the first taste is quickly balanced out by a refreshing finish. Subtle aromas of butter and dried herbs.

Price: n/a (retails for $25)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Hazy light pumpkin hue. Moderate carbonation. Smells of musty funky apple.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry. Light to medium bodied. Moderate tartness, acidity, and funk. Low tannins. Hints of bitterness. No sourness. Notes of rich bittersweet apple juice and pomace, butterscotch, must/earth, and lemon. Moderate tannic finish length. Moderate apple flavor, complexity, and flavor intensity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: Awesome! I enjoyed this funky find – it reminded me some of English cider, except sparkling.

Most Similar to: this was funkier than any other typical French cider I can remember trying (it nearly rivaled the Bordelet mini-keg I tried that I think was an off batch), which I personally loved, but the sweetness, carbonation level, flavor profile, etc, are all characteristically French (see a list of my French cider reviews here)

Closing Notes: This is my favorite of the three Herout ciders I’ve tried, although I think I liked their Pommeau even better (I’ll have to double check when I open the bottle of Pommeau I have at home).

Have you tried Herout cidre? What did you think?

Woodchuck Sangria

June 3, 2019June 1, 2019 cidersays review, Woodchuck cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, sangria, Sangria cider, tasting notes, Woodchuck

Review of Woodchuck’s Sangria cider. It is my first time trying this, although I have had most of their line-up (see here).

>>This is a review of a sample can provided to Cider Says by Woodchuck. Although I will take care to treat it the same as any other review, there is always the potential for bias as I received it for free. The only consideration I knowingly made was pushing this up in my cider review cue. I love free stuff, especially cider! Want your cider or cider-related product reviewed here? Contact me.<<

Cider: Sangria
Cidery: Woodchuck
Cidery Location: Middlebury VT
ABV: 5.5%
How Supplied: 12oz cans
Style: American commercial cider from dessert apples, with natural fruit flavors and grape skin extract for color

Availability: semi wide release by July 2019

Cider Description: A semi-sweet cider with notes of red wine, citrus and berry to give a full-bodied taste inspired by Sangria.

Cidery Description: Vermont Cider Company is a leading hard cider maker in the United States, with a state of the art cidery located in Middlebury, Vermont. Vermont Cider Company crafts a variety of ciders fora variety of consumers. There’s ultra-craft Vermont Cider Co., iconic Woodchuck, fruit-forward Wyder’s as well as the classic Magners Irish Cider and Blackthorn, rounding out our import offerings. Vermont Cider Company reinvigorated American hard cider in 1991, with the launch of Woodchuck, and stays focused on the category today through our commitment to crafting innovative and refreshing hard ciders.

Price: n/a (runs ~ $9.99 / six pack)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Deep red hue. No carbonation. Smells of red grape.

Tasting Notes: Semi-sweet to semi-dry. Medium bodied. Low tartness. Moderate acidity. No bitterness, sourness, tannins, or funk. Notes of red grape and green apple, with hints of lemon, pineapple, and red wine. Moderate length finish. Very high sessionability. Low to moderate flavor intensity and complexity. Low apple flavor.

My Opinion: I liked it. Super easy to drink and fruity, although rather grapey.

Most Similar to: Portland Cider Sangria plus Portland Cider Concord Grape

Closing Notes: This would be a great cider to bring to a bbq or similar summer event.

Have you tried Woodchuck Sangria? What did you think?

2 Towns Afton Field

May 30, 2019May 29, 2019 cidersays 2 Towns, review 2 Towns, Afton Field, cider, cider review, cider tasting, farmhouse cider, hard cider, oregon cider, tasting notes, Traditions

Review of 2 Towns Afton Field, part of their Traditions line. I previously at least tried this on tap (see here), plus I’ve had most of their cider lineup (see here).

Cider: Afton Field, 2017
Cidery: 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Cidery Location: Corvallis OR
ABV: 6.9%
How Supplied: 375ml bottles (and kegs)
Style: American craft heritage farmhouse-style dry cider, barrel aged 1 year, bottle conditioned (soured) with Brettanomyces yeast

Availability: limited release, yearly in April [in Oregon, Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, Hawaii, Chicago, and parts of Minnesota & Montana (see their cider finder)]

Cider Description: Inspired by farmhouse ciders of the pioneer West, Afton Field is a testament to the tenacity of these settlers and their enduring orchards. Fresh-pressed, hand-picked Wickson crab, Newtown Pippin and other pioneer apple varieties are fermented, aged in oak barrels, and bottle conditioned with wild Brettanomyces yeast. Bone dry, unfiltered and uncompromising, this farmhouse cider is wild at heart and at home on the rustic table.

Cidery Description: At 2 Towns Ciderhouse we believe that the long history of cidermaking demands respect and deserves to be done right. Starting with the highest quality whole ingredients from local farms, we take no shortcuts in crafting our ciders. We never add any sugar, concentrates or artificial flavors, and instead use slow, cold fermentation methods to allow the fruit to speak for itself. As a family-owned company, we are committed to the growth of our team and enrichment of our communities. We take pride in producing true Northwest craft cider.

Price: n/a (retails for ~ $10)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Slightly hazy light straw yellow hue. No carbonation. Smells of musty sharp apple.

Tasting Notes: Dry. Light bodied. High tartness. Moderate to high acidity. Moderate funk. Low sourness and tannins. Hints of bitterness. Notes of sharp crab apple, lemon, must, straw, mineral, and a hint of herbs. Moderate length finish. Moderate apple flavor and sessionability. Low to moderate flavor intensity. Moderate to high complexity.

My Opinion: This isn’t a style that personally appeals to me. I’d recommend this for fans of bone dry farmhouse-style (sour, rustic) ciders and/or beers.

Most Similar to: other bone dry farmhouse-style ciders, such as Alpenfire Pirate’s Plank, Gitche Gumee Ciderworks Entropy, Number 12 Sparkling Dry, Runcible Cider Light of the Moon, Angry Orchard Walden Hollow, and Sietsema Traditional Dry

Closing Notes: I think moving their ‘Traditions’ line from a separate brand of large ~$20 bottles to smaller ~$10 bottles under the 2 Towns brand (but differentiated by bottle type/size and label format) a couple years ago was a very smart move, as they are an easier sell.

Have you tried 2 Towns Afton Field? What did you think?

2 Towns Camp Clementine

May 28, 2019May 25, 2019 cidersays 2 Towns, review 2 Towns, Camp Clementine, cider, cider review, cider tasting, clementine, hard cider, passionfruit, tasting notes

Review of 2 Towns Camp Clementine. It is my first time trying this, although I have had most of their line-up (see here).

Cider: Camp Clementine
Cidery: 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Cidery Location: Corvallis OR
ABV: 5.5%
How Supplied: 500ml bottles (and kegs)
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with clementines and passionfruit

Availability: seasonal (released April 2019), in Oregon, Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, Hawaii, Chicago Illinois, and parts of Minnesota & Montana – see their cider finder

Cider Description: Juicy & Bright, Camp Clementine is an easy drinking summer cider packed with California clementines and yellow Maracuyá passion fruit. Sit back, relax and uncap some fond camp memories, or better yet, get out there and make some new ones!

Price: n/a (retails for ~ $6.99 / bottle)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: No carbonation. Light yellow hue. Smells of citrus and passionfruit.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry. Light bodied. Moderate to high tartness. Moderate acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of passionfruit, citrus, and green apple. Long tart finish. Low apple flavor and complexity. Low to moderate flavor. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I liked it, but would have preferred a bit less tartness.

Most Similar to: 2 Towns Passion Statement, plus citrus

Closing Notes: I actually noticed more passionfruit than clementine flavor, despite the cider’s name.

Have you tried 2 Towns Camp Clementine? What did you think?

Incline White Peach

May 6, 2019May 5, 2019 cidersays Incline, review cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, Incline, Incline cider, peach cider, tasting notes, white peach

Review of Incline Cider’s White Peach cider. It is my first time trying this, but I have had their The Explorer Hopped Cider, Lemongrass Lure, The Scout Hopped Marionberry, and Compass Rosé.

Cider: White Peach
Cidery: Incline Cider
Cidery Location: Auburn WA
ABV: 6.9%
How Supplied: 19,2oz cans
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with white peaches

Availability: mostly Washington & Oregon, plus Nevada, Idaho, Utah, & Alaska (see here)

Cider Description: Our white peach cider is juicy, bright, crisp and refreshing because we use fresh peach juice and organic white peach extract. We hope you enjoy!

Cidery Description: Utilizing only 100% fresh pressed apples as the base for ciders that stand in a category of their own.

Price: $4.49 / 1 can
Where Bought: Total Wine
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing

First Impression: Light gold hue. Low carbonation. Smells of sweet peach.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry. Light bodied. Moderate tartness. Moderate to high acidity. Hints of bitterness and tannins. No sourness or funk. Notes of peach, green apple, lemon, and apricot. Quick finish. Low to moderate flavor intensity. Low apple flavor and complexity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I liked it. However, I would have liked a touch more sweetness and flavor, which probably would cut the tartness & acidity too. It smelled more of peach than it tasted oddly enough. Same with the level of sweetness (smelled sweeter than it tasted).

Most Similar to: Blackfin Peach (however, my favorite peach cider remains Lonetree Apple Peach, which of course isn’t available locally)

Closing Notes: Offering these larger cans only sold individually is a new idea. I liked it, as I like to try new ciders, but not commit to them, so I’ll go to places like Total Wine which sell singles of multipacks. This one doesn’t appear to be sold in a multipack even in other stores. Due to this, the price ends up being a bit higher per ounce than most local craft canned multipack ciders.

Have you tried Incline Peach? What did you think?

Avid Watermelon Rhubarb

April 29, 2019April 26, 2019 cidersays Avid (prev. Atlas), review atlas, Avid, cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, tasting notes, Watermelon Rhubarb

Review of Avid (previously Atlas) Cider’s Watermelon Rhubarb. It is my first time trying this, but I’ve previously had their Hard Apple Cider, Hard Blackberry Cider, Pom-Cherry, Hard Apricot Cider, Cinnamon Pear, Session Cider, Dragonfruit, and Pineapple Mango.

Cider: Watermelon Rhubarb
Cidery: Avid Cider
Cidery Location: Bend, Oregon
ABV: 6.0%
How Supplied: 22oz bottles
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with watermelon & rhubarb, and beet juice for color

Availability: seasonal, special release, probably only in the Northwest

Cider Description: The simple and natural flavors of fresh pressed watermelon and the fleshy stalks of Michigan grown Rhubarb complement each other in this clean, crisp and refreshing cider.

Cidery Description: Inspired by the landscape, culture, and the abundance of fruit in the North West, AVID Cider Company, a family run business, is dedicated to creating hard cider using sustainably sourced and local ingredients. AVID Cider Co. was founded as a result of the dissatisfaction with the lack of variety and excessively dry or cloyingly sweet ciders available in the market place in 2013. We saw the opportunity to create hard cider that better balances the elements of a flavor profile, and satiates our thirst for a cider that is “just right.”

They have a cider house in Portland Oregon.

Price: $7.49
Where Bought: Total Wine
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing – I’m a fan of watermelon (although admittedly not of rhubarb), so I wanted to give it a try

First Impression: Medium red hue. No carbonation. General fruity scent.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry to semi-sweet. Light to medium bodied. Low tartness and acidity. Hints of bitterness. No sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of watermelon, strawberry, and rhubarb. Moderate length finish. Low apple flavor and complexity. Moderate flavor intensity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I liked it. Fruity, but not too tart or sweet.

Most Similar to: Fresh Cut Watermelon or Locust Watermelon, but with rhubarb added

Closing Notes: I would have been a bigger fan of this without the bitterness of the rhubarb.

Have you tried Avid Watermelon Rhubarb? What did you think?

Whiskey Barrel Cider Co. Triple Play

April 22, 2019April 21, 2019 cidersays review, Whiskey Barrel Cider Co. cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, Pullman, tasting notes, Triple Play, WA cider, washington, Whiskey Barrel Cider Company

Review of Whiskey Barrel Cider Company’s Triple Play. It is my first time trying this, but I previously had their Dam Fine Cider.

Cider: Triple Play
Cidery: Whiskey Barrel Cider Company
Cidery Location: Pullman WA
ABV: 5.1%
How Supplied: 16oz cans
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples

Availability: likely only in Washington

Cider Description: Triple Play began as our summer seasonal but quickly became so popular that we decided to keep it around all year long. Made from Gala, Red and Golden Delicious apples, Triple Play is our sweetest cider. Enjoy it as you remember the long hot days of summer!

Cidery Description: Former engineer Trent Maier developed the recipe for Whiskey Barrel Cider and approached his friend and fellow engineer, Brian Augdahl, about the idea of building a space to create the recipe using local, Washington grown apples. The operation began with one delicious cider and has since developed into the creation of several signature ciders with the taste of Washington apples in every sip.

Price: probably $2-4 / 1 can
Where Bought: I think either Total Wine in Northgate, or The Cave in Kirkland
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing

First Impression: Medium amber hue. Very low carbonation. A bit of foam. Smells simply of sweet apple juice.

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 just apple juice, although less sweet / a bit watered down. Quick finish. High sessionability and apple flavor. Moderate flavor intensity. Very low complexity.

My Opinion: I enjoyed it. Super easy to drink and all around likable, although fairly simple. It tastes what I imagine folks who have not tried cider would expect all ciders to taste like, of alcoholic apple juice, although this is less sweet than straight apple juice. From the color and flavor, I’m guessing they made a high ABV dry cider, then back-sweetened with a fair bit of apple juice.

Most Similar to: A less sweet and higher quality version of some popular commercial ciders, like Angry Orchard Crisp Apple and Woodchuck Amber.

Side Note: After first trying their cider, I learned that their name came about as their first cider was whiskey barrel aged, but they have since scaled up production, and last I heard, none of their current cider line-up is whiskey barrel aged.

Closing Notes: Hopefully I find more ciders from them soon. I can see why this would be popular, as it is super apple forward and on the sweeter end, but less sweet (and higher quality and more local) than most commercial options.

Have you tried Whiskey Barrel Cider Co. Triple Play? What did you think?

Sky River Cherry Vanilla Honey Wine (Mead)

April 15, 2019April 13, 2019 cidersays not cider, review, Sky River cherry mead, cherry vanilla, honey wine, mead, mead review, mead tasting, Sky River, Sky River mead, tasting notes

Today I don’t have a cider to review, but a mead, Sky River’s Cherry Vanilla Honey Wine. It is my first time trying this, but I have had most of their lineup (see my trip report here from when I visited their meadery tasting room).

Mead: Cherry Vanilla Honey Wine
Meadery: Sky River
Location: Redmond WA
ABV: 12%
How Supplied: 750ml bottles
Style: American craft mead (honey wine), with cherries and vanilla

Availability: U.S. (Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, Louisiana, & Pennsylvania), Japan, and Sweden, plus online sales

Mead Description: The downy snow of blossom laden cherry trees. The harbinger of spring. Awakening the honey bees, and bringing the promise of new life. With the blossoms come the tantalizing dreams of the promised lush cherries to come, and sumptuous days of sunshine. Sky River Cherry Vanilla Mead reunites the honey and cherries. Warm Honey and rich, dark Cherry, wedded with lush Vanilla bean Enjoy with freshly grilled steaks, salmon, or even with your favorite custard.

Meadery Description: From ancient cultures on distant shores, shrouded in mist, Sky River brings the age-old art of making mead into the twenty-first century to create a new tradition.

Price: $21
Where Bought: a tasting event
Where Drank: home
How Found: a tasting event

First Impression: Dark cherry hue. Still. Smells of sweet cherry wine.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry to semi-sweet. Light to medium bodied. Low tartness and acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of cherry with hints of honey & floral, then a moderate length vanilla finish. Low honey flavor. Moderate cherry flavor, sessionability, overall flavor intensity, and complexity.

My Opinion: I enjoyed it. Nice flavor, of real cherry. I would have liked a bit more vanilla. Definitely not honey-forward though.

Most Similar to: A more real-tasting, more complex, and drier version of Eaglemount Cherry Mead. I’ve also had d’s cherry vanilla cider, with awesome flavor, similarly not apple-forward, but it is quite sweet.

Closing Notes: Mead is a nice complimentary option to cider.

Have you tried mead? What did you think?

2 Towns Two Thorns

April 1, 2019March 31, 2019 cidersays 2 Towns, review 2 Towns, cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, oregon, raspberry cider, raspberry rose, tasting notes, Two Thorns

Review of 2 Towns Two Thorns. It is my first time trying this, but I have had most of their line-up (see here).

Cider: Two Thorns
Cidery: 2 Towns
Cidery Location: Corvallis OR
ABV: 5.5%
How Supplied: 500ml bottles (and cans and kegs)
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with raspberries and rose petals

Availability: Spring seasonal, possibly in Oregon, Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, Hawaii, Chicago, and parts of Minnesota & Montana (see their cider finder)

Cider Description: Tart and floral, Two Thorns unites fresh-pressed Northwest apples, raspberries and rose petals. The result is a uniquely fragrant cider with a vibrant red hue.

Price: n/a (probably ~ $5.99 / 500ml bottle or ~ $11.99 / six pack)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Moderate red hue. Still. Smells of tart raspberry.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry. Light bodied. Moderate to strong tartness. Moderate acidity. No sourness, funk, bitterness, or tannins. Notes of raspberry with hints of green apple, floral, and lemon. Moderate tart finish. Low apple flavor. Moderate flavor intensity. Low to moderate complex. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I liked it. Nice tart raspberry flavor, and super fruity for how dry it is (only 6g of sugar / 12oz).

Most Similar to: Most raspberry ciders I’ve had were much more sweet. However, this is most similar to a lower ABV version of Blue Moon Winery Apple Raspberry, which was also tart and dry.

Closing Notes: They had a previous cider with this same flavor and name which was only available in downtown Portland Oregon, a collaboration with the Portland Thorns women’s soccer team.

Have you tried 2 Towns Two Thorns? What did you think?

Portland Cider Pineapple Rosé

March 26, 2019March 25, 2019 cidersays Portland Cider, review cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, Pineapple Rosé, portland, Portland Cider, Rosé cider, rose, tasting notes

Review of Portland Cider’s Pineapple Rosé. It is my first time trying this, but I have had much of their line-up (see here).

>>This is a review of a sample can provided to Cider Says by Portland Cider. Although I will take care to treat it the same as any other review, there is always the potential for bias as I received it for free. The only consideration I knowingly made was pushing this up in my cider review cue. I love free stuff, especially cider! Want your cider or cider-related product reviewed here? Contact me.<<

Cider: Pineapple Rosé
Cidery: Portland Cider Company
Cidery Location: Portland Oregon
ABV: 5.2%
How Supplied: 12oz cans (and draft, plus 19.2oz cans are coming in mid-April)
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with pineapple and blueberry

Availability: seasonal, March thru August 2019, in Oregon, Washington, and Northern California

Cider Description: The juicy and delicate pineapple fruit works beautifully with a hint of blueberry juice, creating an elegant cider on par with the rosé wine that so many love.

Cidery Description: Portland Cider Company was started in October 2012 by an Oregonian and a family of British expats with the mission of bringing cider, handcrafted in the English tradition, to the Northwest. It has two taproom locations: Portland Cider House at 3638 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214; and Taproom & Cidery at 8925 SE Jannsen Rd, Bldg. F, Clackamas, OR 97015. Visit www.PortlandCider.com and follow @PortlandCider on social media.

Price: n/a (although it’ll probably run ~ $10.99 / six pack)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: it showed up

First Impression: Smells sweet and fruity. Very low carbonation. Hint of peach hue.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry to semi-sweet. Medium bodied. Low tartness and acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of pineapple with hints of green apple and strawberry (I didn’t really pick up any blueberry). Quick finish. Low apple flavor and complexity. Low to moderate flavor intensity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I liked it. Significantly more pineapple than berry. Super easy to drink. I was surprised to see the can say 20 grams of sugar, as it tasted less sweet (although the body was what I’d expect for that level of sweetness). It was a bit less intensely flavored than I prefer and I’d expect with a sweeter cider.

Most Similar to: a sweeter but less intensely flavored version of 2 Towns Pacific Pineapple plus a hint of strawberry

Closing Notes: Rosé sure is the hottest cider trend – seems like nearly every cidery has one now. On that note, I’m surprised they didn’t add a bit more blueberry if they were trying to go for a rosé look, as it was barely rosé.

Have you tried Portland Cider Pineapple Rosé? What did you think?

2 Towns Easy Squeezy

March 21, 2019March 17, 2019 cidersays 2 Towns, review 2 Towns, cider, cider review, cider tasting, Easy Squeezy, hard cider, raspberry lemon cider, tasting notes

Review of 2 Towns Easy Squeezy, a new year-round lemon raspberry cider, a spin on their previous limited release Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy. It is my first time trying this, but I’ve had most of their lineup (see here).

Cider: Easy Squeezy
Cidery: 2 Towns
Cidery Location: Corvallis OR
ABV: 5.0%
How Supplied: 500ml bottles (and 6 packs of 12oz cans, and kegs)
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples with lemon and raspberry

Availability: year round, starting in Oregon, Washington, California, Alaska, Idaho, Hawaii, Chicago, and parts of Minnesota & Montana (see their cider finder)

Cider Description: Citrusy and refreshing, Easy Squeezy is crafted with fresh-pressed Northwest apples, Meyer lemons and raspberries. Bringing the pink lemonade vibes, this cider goes down easy peasy!

Cidery Description: At 2 Towns Ciderhouse we believe that the long history of cidermaking demands respect and deserves to be done right. Starting with the highest quality whole ingredients from local farms, we take no shortcuts in crafting our ciders. We never add any sugar, concentrates or artificial flavors, and instead use slow, cold fermentation methods to allow the fruit to speak for itself. As a family-owned company, we are committed to the growth of our team and enrichment of our communities. We take pride in producing true Northwest craft cider.

They were founded in 2010 and have a tap room in Corvallis Oregon.

Price: retails for ~ $5.99 / 500ml bottle or ~ $11.99 / six pack
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: n/a

First Impression: Hazy pink lemonade hue. Still. Smells of tart lemonade.

Tasting Notes: On the sweeter side of semi-dry. Light bodied. Moderate to high tartness and acidity. No tannins, sourness, tannins, or funk. Notes of lemon, raspberry, granny smith apples, and grapefruit. Quick finish. Low apple flavor. Low to moderate complexity. Moderate flavor intensity. High sessionability.

My Opinion: I really liked this. A bit less mouth-puckering tart than the previous release.

Most Similar to: an alcoholic version of a less sweet than normal raspberry lemonade

Closing Notes: Glad to see they are doing this in cans in time for spring and summer!

Have you tried 2 Towns Easy Peasy? What did you think?

Tieton Organic

March 18, 2019March 18, 2019 cidersays review, Tieton cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, organic cider, tasting notes, Tieton, Tieton cider

Review of Tieton Cider Works Organic Hard Cider. It is my first time trying this, but I have had their Cidermaker’s Reserve, Apricot, Smoked Pumpkin, Wind (Pommeau), Wild Washington, Cherry, Blossom Nectar, Sparkling Perry, Cranberry, Bourbon Peach, Frost (ice cider), Spice Route, Russian Red, Lavender Honey, and Oak Barrel Aged Cider Summit Collaboration.

Cider: Organic Hard Cider
Cidery: Tieton Cider Works
Cidery Location: Yakima WA
ABV: 6.9%
How Supplied: six pack of 12oz cans
Style: American Organic craft cider

Availability: probably only in the Northwest

Cider Description: Dry and Crisp, made with 100% organic apples. Growing the fruit organically combines our farming tradition with being good stewards of the land we call home. This organic cider represents our heritage, the care that goes into the land and trees that produce it. It’s slightly tart but well balanced with a fruity nose.

Cidery Description: From our orchards to your glass, TCW controls every aspect of the growing and cidermaking process. TCW boasts the largest orchard of cider apple varieties in Washington state and the largest Perry pear orchard in the United States. We blend our cider fruit with all Washington apples. We’ve been growing apples, apricots, cherries and pears on Harmony Orchards – our family farm – since the 1930’s and are thrilled to be involved in Re:interpreting the tradition of cider making.

Price: ~$3 / can (runs ~ $9.99-11.99 / six pack)
Where Bought: The Cave in Kirkland WA
Where Drank: home
How Found: browsing; I had seen this before, but not singles

First Impression: Light amber hue. Still. Smells dry and apple-forward.

Tasting Notes: Dry to semi-dry. Light bodied. Low tartness and acidity. Hints of tannins. No bitterness, sourness, or funk. Notes of purely apple and apple juice with a hint of richness. Quick finish. High sessionability. Low flavor intensity and complexity. Moderate apple flavor.

My Opinion: I thought this was quite average. Plenty drinkable and a nice relatively easy to find in the NW drier cider option, but a tad bland, probably primarily due to the dryness and it presumably being at least mostly made from dessert apples, without any fruit/hops/spices/etc added.

Most Similar to: a drier plain apple flagship cider

Closing Notes: I was surprised to see Tieton start canning ciders, as I assumed they would keep that for their Rambling Route brand.

Have you tried Tieton Organic Apple? What did you think?

Seattle Cider Pineapple Agave

March 11, 2019March 11, 2019 cidersays review, Seattle Cider cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, Pineapple Agave, pineapple cider, seattle, Seattle Cider, tasting notes

Review of Seattle Cider’s Pineapple Agave. It is my first time trying this new seasonal release, but I’ve previously had their Semi-Sweet, PNW Berry, Olympic Honey, Plum Gose, Oaked Maple, Harvest Series Gravenstein Rosé, Gose, Dry, Gin Botanical, City Fruit, Heirloom, Lavender Lemon, Cucumber Hibiscus, City Fruit, New England Style, 2015 Washington Heirloom, Winesap Rose, and Red Wine Barrel Berry.

>>This is a review of a sample can provided to Cider Says by Seattle Cider. Although I will take care to treat it the same as any other review, there is always the potential for bias as I received it for free. The only consideration I knowingly made was pushing this up in my cider review cue. I love free stuff, especially cider! Want your cider or cider-related product reviewed here? Contact me.<<

Cider: Pineapple Agave
Cidery: Seattle Cider Co.
Cidery Location: Seattle WA
ABV: 6.5%
How Supplied: 16oz can
Style: American craft cider from dessert apples, with pineapple juice and agave nectar

Availability: seasonally, starting in Washington and Colorado

Cider Description: Fresh pressed Washington apples, pineapple juice, and agave nectar come together to create Seattle Cider Company’s newest seasonal release.Pineapple Agave, 6.5% ABV and 1.8 Brix, boasts ripe and juicy pineapple aroma, soft tartness, and the subtle tropical sweetness of agave for a perfectly balanced and bright addition to the Seattle Cider lineup.

Cidery Description: Not your standard cider. Seattle Cider Company bridges the gap between wine and beer with flavorful, small-batch cider, bringing true craft cider back to Seattle and across the country. Seattle Cider Company’s year-round and seasonal offerings break the mold of overly sweet cider, showcasing the incomparable flavor of Washington apples. Naturally gluten free and made from a custom blend of fresh pressed, locally grown apples, Seattle Cider Company’s products are handcrafted with all natural ingredients and never from concentrate. Seattle Cider products are currently available throughout Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nevada, Missouri, Massachusetts, Colorado, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Montana. Visit our tasting room, The Woods, at 4660 Ohio Ave. S. in Seattle. For more information, visit seattlecidercompany.com, or follow Seattle Cider Company on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@seattleciderco).

Price: n/a (probably retails for ~ $10.99-$11.99 / four pack)
Where Bought: n/a
Where Drank: home
How Found: cidery press release

First Impression: Light straw yellow hue. Nearly still. Smells mild, of tart pineapple.

Tasting Notes: On the drier side of semi-dry. Light bodied. Low to moderate tartness. Moderate acidity. No bitterness, sourness, funk, or tannins. Notes of pineapple, green apple, and lemon. Quick finish. Low apple flavor and complexity. Low to moderate flavor intensity. Moderate to high sessionability.

My Opinion: I enjoyed it, although I would have preferred a bit more flavor and sweetness.

Most Similar to: I’ve tried over a dozen pineapple ciders, and I think this is closest to Apple Outlaw Pineapple Getaway, Portland Cider Co. Pineapple, or a slightly drier version of 2 Towns Pineapple

Closing Notes: This is one of my favorite varieties from Seattle Cider, in addition to the Oaked Maple and Olympic Honey, which are some of their sweeter selections, although in general I’m not personally a big fan of their ciders as they run drier with a lower flavor intensity. I’d recommend their ciders for folks who like dry to semi-dry modern ciders.

Have you tried Seattle Cider Pineapple Agave? What did you think?

2 Towns Boysenbarrel

February 28, 2019February 25, 2019 cidersays 2 Towns, review 2 Towns, barrel aged, Boysenbarrel, boysenberry, cider, cider review, cider tasting, hard cider, tasting notes

Review of 2 Towns Boysenbarrel, a barrel aged boysenberry cider. It is my first time trying this, but I have had most of their lineup (see here).

Cider: Boysenbarrel
Cidery: 2 Towns
Cidery Location: Corvallis Oregon
ABV: 8.0%
How Supplied: 500ml bottles
Style: American craft with from dessert apples with boysenberries, barrel aged

Availability: seasonal (winter), in some states (see their cider finder), plus online sales

Cider Description: Tart and complex, Boysenbarrel is packed with Pacific Northwest grown boysenberries. Aged on heavy toasted French oak for a strong tannic backbone, this rich and tangy berry treat is perfect for the winter season.

Price: $6.99
Where Bought: Total Wine
Where Drank: home
How Found: I first read about it online

First Impression: Purple-red hue. Nearly still (very low carbonation). Smells of tart berry.

Tasting Notes: Semi-dry. Light bodied. Moderate tartness and acidity. Low tannins. Hints of bitterness. No sourness or funk. Notes of berry with hints of lemon and green apple. Long tannic oaky red wine finish (although I’m guessing the red wine flavor was just tannic berry + oak barrel, as they didn’t specify red wine barrels were used). Low apple flavor and barrel influence. Moderate flavor intensity, complexity, and sessionability,

My Opinion: I liked it. However, it was a bit too red wine-like for me.

Most Similar to: a non-sour version of 2 Towns Traditions La Mure (marion blackberry cider aged in red wine barrels), and Seattle Cider Red Wine Barrel Berry

Closing Notes: I’d recommend this for folks of berry and barrel aged ciders, especially wine lovers.

Have you tried 2 Towns Boysenbarrel? What did you think?

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