Scrumpy by Westons

The Pub:  I tried this cider at a pub called The Shakespeare in Birmingham, England. The pub atmosphere was amazing, considering it was week night at around 6:30pm.  Lots of workers were stopping in for a quick one and a chat with friends.  As for the pub, a picture of the great writer himself hangs proudly on the wall. Pictures of old Birmingham are display throughout the pub.  The pub itself had lots of dark wood throughout...flooring, bar and walls.  This was a great place for me to wet my whistle after visiting my beloved Villa Park, home of Aston Villa Football Club.  The twitter handle for this pub (or owners of pub) is @nicholsonpubs.  Pub is located in the city centre and is close to the train the station.

The Cider:  I tried to pay attention while the bartender poured this cider from the tap.  The pour was cloudy and it remained cloudy.  My friend Carol and I had two different opinions on this drink.  Carol said she could taste apple and her thoughts that it was a watered down apple juice.  As for me, my first impression was that I was drinking a white wine/ champagne. It was dry and not sweet.  It was hard for me to get into this cider.  Though it wasn't my favourite of the ones I tried over there, I would have it again. 

A Brief History:  Westons was established in 1880 in Much Marcle, Herefordshire.  The company is still in the family and they produced various types of ciders and perries.  The website is very interactive and has a lot of detail on the history of the family, cider making etc.  There is too much to go so visit their website at:      http://www.westons-cider.co.uk/  It is a great read.  I was reading the various ciders they had for sale on the on line shop and I noticed for all of them, they are suitable for those who follow a gluten free diet.

The Verdict:  6.9 out of 10