For years, our taps have flowed with tales of hops and barley, and our pages have been dedicated to the diverse and delicious world of beer. But today, we’re pouring ourselves something a little different, something equally refreshing and perhaps even more vibrant: cider. Before you imagine another frosty pint of your favorite brew, let’s clarify. While both beer and cider are fermented beverages often enjoyed in similar settings, they are fundamentally distinct from each other. Beer, as you know, is crafted from fermented grains, primarily malted barley, and usually features the prominent bitterness of hops. Cider, on the other hand, is born from the fermented juice of fruit, most commonly apples. Think of it less like a beer and more akin to a wine, showcasing the natural sweetness, tartness, and complex aromatics of its fruit base. And just in time for the sunny days of July, we’re diving headfirst into the world of ciders that are bursting with fruity, fun flavors, with many even celebrating the peak of their seasonal deliciousness.
Woodchuck Amber likely comes to mind when you think of hard cider, and with good reason. As the original Woodchuck Cider, it holds a special place in the hearts of cider enthusiasts and boasts a significant history in the revival of American hard cider. This refreshing alcoholic drink is born from a carefully selected blend of apples, fermented with champagne yeast, to achieve its signature crisp and satisfying flavor profile.
The story of Woodchuck Amber, and indeed American hard cider’s modern resurgence, truly began in 1991. It was then that winemaker Greg Failing, working out of a two-car garage in Proctorsville, Vermont, began experimenting with fermenting apples. At a time when beer dominated the beverage market, Failing and his partners, Joe Cerniglia and Barry Blake, had a genuine passion for hard cider, a drink that had largely vanished from the American consciousness since Prohibition. Their efforts resulted in Woodchuck Amber, which quickly gained a cult following in the Northeast and beyond. Early production was a humble affair, with bottles initially filled by a 1940s soda filler that only filled 10 ounces, requiring the remaining two ounces to be topped off by hand with a turkey baster. This resilient spirit and commitment to quality laid the foundation for Woodchuck’s growth. Whether you’re picking up a six-pack for a backyard BBQ, stocking up with a 12-pack, or enjoying a fresh pour on draft, Woodchuck Amber remains a go-to for its dependable quality and delicious taste, a testament to its pioneering role in shaping the modern cider landscape.
For those who love a pop of vibrant, candy-like fruit flavor, Country Boy Brewing’s Blue Razz Cider is a must-try. This exciting contemporary cider from the Kentucky-based brewery delivers exactly what its name promises: a bold, sweet, and slightly tart blue raspberry experience. It’s a fun and approachable cider that stands out with its playful flavor profile, making it a perfect pick for a summer day. Country Boy is known for its diverse offerings, and their Blue Razz Cider proves they’re just as adept at crafting lively, fruit-forward ciders as they are at crafting their renowned beers. Don’t be surprised if this one becomes your go-to for a burst of vibrant refreshment!
So, whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or simply looking to broaden your horizons, consider pouring yourself a glass of cider this summer. What’s truly great about cider is its incredible versatility and the sheer spectrum of flavors it offers, from bone-dry and tart to wonderfully sweet and fruit-forward. Unlike beer’s grain- and hop-driven profiles, cider celebrates the fruit base’s complex aromatics and natural sugars, creating a refreshing experience that can be either rich and robust or crisp and clean. A lot of ciders are also naturally gluten-free, which makes them a great option for people who follow certain dietary guidelines. In addition, apples’ tannins and polyphenols provide antioxidants, giving this delectable beverage a hint of natural goodness. It offers a unique and frequently lighter experience that proudly stands alongside its hoppy counterparts, and it’s a delightful journey into a world of diverse fruit flavors.
-by Maeve Black
