Apple Cider

Apple cider is the classic, fermented juice of crushed apples, offering a diverse world of flavor far beyond mass-produced sweet drinks. At its heart, it is a simple showcase of fruit, but the results vary wildly depending on the apples used. You will find everything from bone-dry, tart, and tannic styles that mimic sparkling wine, to rich, sweet, and cloudy farm-pressed versions.

When choosing a bottle, look at the label for clues about sweetness and production methods. "Traditional method" or "cidre bouché" indicates a natural carbonation with fine bubbles, while "single-varietal" highlights the unique character of a specific apple, like Kingston Black or Dabinett. Tannic, dry ciders pair beautifully with rich pork dishes, sharp cheddar cheese, or spicy curries, while sweeter, fruitier styles are perfect on their own on a sunny afternoon.