Hard apple cider is having its moment. Is it because the craft beer movement has run its course? Not likely. Could it be because hard cider is gluten free, and the “Gluten is Evil” mob is growing? Possibly. It could also be because hard apple cider is just flat out damned delicious. And more and more guys are getting on board.
Come on, think about it: Your favorite drink as a kid, apple juice, punched up with enough “adult beverage” content to make you forget what a half-brained weasel your boss was all week? Pure perfection.
And on a hot summer day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a tall glass of hard apple cider to wash down that expertly seared T-bone.
But sometimes the meal calls for something a little more upscale. That’s where Angry Orchard’s Cider House Collection comes in. Brewed to be more similar to wine than beer, the ciders in the Collection showcase more complex aromas and flavors, and can be paired with food to class up your barbecue. Go ahead, chill a couple of bottles and pour ‘em into a wine glass. That’s how they’re supposed to be served.
There are three different ciders in the Cider House Collection, and each has its own distinct character.
Strawman is a little earthy and a little “funky,” like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. It’s got flavors of ripe apple, vanilla and honeysuckle, and when you stick your nose in the glass, you’ll get hit with wood, dark fruits and sweet citrus.
Great, so what does all that mean? It means you can pair Strawman with cheeses like cheddar, and also with seafood like salmon or tuna.
On the slightly sweeter side there’s Iceman and its got some caramel and toffee flavor coming through over the apples from its wood aging. Think grown-up caramel apple that gets you buzzed. You’re gonna want to drink this one with cured meats and soft cheeses.
Finally, the newest addition to the Collection is The Muse. Using a blend of culinary apples from the Südtirol (also known as the Alto Adige region of Italy), a fertile valley known for wine making, The Muse is aged on French oak staves, giving it subtle wood, along with clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and hints of vanilla. A great alternative to popular sparkling wines like Italian Prosecco and Spanish Cava, The Muse is just as great with that grilled chicken you’re planning, or for sipping with fine cheeses when the occasion is a little more refined.
All ciders in the Cider House Collection come in a 750 ml bottle ($14.99) with a caged cork top, for added classiness and the feeling like you’re celebrating something special. And isn’t every backyard barbecue special?
