Review: The Colonial – New England-Style by Western Cider Co

Review Date: December 31, 2020

Sweetness: Semi-Dry

ABV: 10.60%

Cider Maker’s Description

The Colonial is a New England-style that originated in the Northeastern colonies over 300 years ago. At the end of apple harvest, barrels of cider were sweetened with brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, or molasses. The added sugar boosted alcohol levels to keep the cider safe from spoiling until the next harvest. Raisins were added for flavor, as well as a source of yeast and tannin.

We mimicked this early-American method by mixing a blend of Northwest apples, Belgian Candi, and spices. It rested 6 months on raisins in ex-bourbon barrels - allowing the wine to take on subtleties of orange and fig. Made the Old Way.

Appearance:

• caramel root beer color, clear, bright

Carbonation:

• moderate, nice frothy pour

Aromas:

• earthy, woody, maple syrup, caramel, faint hints of raisins and bourbon

Taste:

• oak, raisins, caramel, orange peel, bitter

Mouthfeel:

• sharp acidic bite, acidic astringency

Finish:

• back of throat bitterness lingers

Tasting Notes / General Impression

Reviewer Notes

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Cidery Information

Western Cider Co
https://westerncider.com/
Missoula, MT