Spirit Tree: Apelager

First of all, before I begin this review, I would like to thank Ontario Hard Cider (@OntCraftCider), a trade organization of hard cider makers in Ontario for hooking me up with this cider to try and review.

As mentioned in previous postings, I like to drink my cider straight up....no ice.  My cider was nicely chilled in the fridge when I finally opened her up.  I noticed that when I  popped the cap off, a faint but nice apple/citrus aroma hit the senses.  So far so good.

 Pour:  When I started pouring my cider into the glass, I noticed it was very carbonated.  There wasn't a long lasting foaming head, but after five minutes there was still a lot of little bubbles dancing around in the glass.  It also poured out cloudy, which reminded me of some of the craft ciders I had on my last trip to the UK.

Colour:  As mentioned, it poured out cloudy, and it remained so, but the longer it sat, you could see a faint pale yellow.

Texture:  Well to my surprise, it has a real creamy texture.  Talk about silky and smooth on the pallet.  With my first few sips, my first thoughts were what a nice mellow, creamy cider. 

Taste:  I decided to delve further to see if I could find any other underlying flavours.  I gave it a swoosh around the mouth, and I was convinced  I could pick out a hint of pear.  The more I drank the more aware I became of the undertones....Pear, granny smith apple, green apple..it kept me guessing but all I know is the tip of my tongue was tingling.  What I liked about it is that it is creamy, but it does get a sour bite at the finish.  What a trip the taste buds go on.

My Final Thoughts:  To me, this cider is not overpowering in taste (apple). It takes the drinker on a magical ride of trying to figure the main flavour and undertones.  Its unique feature is its creamy texture.  Most of all, since it is only 3% alc.vol per 341ml bottle, what a great cider to take to a party or to have when wanting something light.  My only complaint, and this is that I found it a bit too carbonated. This wouldn't stop me from drinking it again, but if you have stomach issues be aware.  This little light cider, has a complexity to it that will have individual drinkers experiencing different tastes and having different ideas which is a good thing!

Rating: Right up there with their pub cider....this one gets an 8.1 out of 10. 

For further information you can visit their website at www.spirittreecider.com

I hope you get a chance to try this cider. Remember, this is just a view from a person who likes their cider and is not a professional.  So on that note... ENJOY!

Cheers,

Laurie