tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46131587481603885932024-02-19T08:39:06.503-05:00The Cider De-CiderLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-30311444315908638012013-08-05T11:12:00.001-04:002013-08-05T11:23:03.065-04:00Gravel Run By Carrick Wines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Colour:</strong> Champagne/Pale Straw<br />
6.3% alc.vol - 750 ml bottle<br />
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<strong>Pour:</strong> The carbonation appeared really heavy on the pour but disappeared quickly. There was just a hint of carbonation as you could see some bubbles on the side of the glass. This made no difference at all in the taste.<br />
<strong>Taste:</strong> To me it was slightly sweet but very close to being a dry cider.<br />
<strong>Aroma: </strong>A subtle hint of apples<br />
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<strong>Synopsis:</strong> I served this cider right from my fridge (chilled for a couple of hours). As normal, I didn't drink it over ice as I prefer to experience the natural taste. Gravel Run is really refreshing with a crisp finish. I thought I had picked up a hint of citrus which gave it a sour undertone, which I noticed after a few sips; it was very subtle and not in your face. It left my taste buds tingling...wanting more of this liquid gold.<br />
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As mentioned earlier, I found it not to be overly dry but not sweet either. Right on the cusp of being one or the other...it does have some wine qualities to it. <br />
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<strong>History:</strong> Gravel Run won the Gold Medal at the 2013 Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition in Grand Rapids Michigan.<br />
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Gravel Run is gluten free and it can be purchased from Carrick Wines via their website <a href="http://www.carrickwines.ca/">www.carrickwines.ca</a> . You can also follow them on twitter at @Carrick_Wines. I won't go into much detail about Carrick Wines as it is worth viewing their website.<br />
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<strong>Synopsis:</strong> Not an overpowering apple taste, this is a really refreshing cider. I could drink it all day! After I had made my notes, I decided to look up Carrick Wines to see what they had to say about Gravel Run. They call it an off-dry lightly carbonated sparkling beverage. It says to serve over ice, but I found it to be refreshing chilled. Gravel Run is made only from apples locally grown in Bruce and Grey Counties. <br />
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<strong>Rating:</strong> 9.4 out of 10<br />
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I would like to thank @OntCraftCider - OCCA for providing me with this excellent cider. Let's keep supporting our Ontario Craft Cider makers as they are making some amazing stuff.<br />
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Cheers!Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-15832408708815604412013-07-28T12:37:00.001-04:002013-07-28T12:37:38.535-04:00Whipper Snapper Red Cider by Carrick Wines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Colour:</strong> Red<br />
Alc. Vol - 7.2% per 750 ml bottle<br />
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Well the name says it all! This puts a little whip into your step. I shared this bottle with a friend at a gathering of cider drinkers in Toronto back in May. For those who have a strong constitution you may not want to share it with anyone. <br />
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Whipper Snapper is not your traditional cider. It is not a sweet a cider at all, yet it is smooth and mellow. You feel mellow after a few glasses too! For me it could easily replace your red wine with a meal as it isn't heavy in look and taste. There was no carbonation on the pour or after. This is really not your traditional hard cider, but I was fascinated by it. It's colouring and flavouring were amazing. I personally couldn't really get a sense of it being made from apples. You could give this to a non cider drinker and I don't think they would know they were drinking hard cider.<br />
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<strong>A Little History:</strong> I am not going to get into great detail about Carrick Wines as one should really visit their website. Whipper Snapper Red Cider is made by Carrick Wines and this beauty won a bronze medal at the 2013 Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition in Grand Rapids Michigan.<br />
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To find out more about Carrick Wines visit their website at <a href="http://www.carrickwines.ca/">www.carrickwines.ca</a> and follow them on twitter @Carrick_Wines. Carrick Wines offer tours as well and you can order their cider on line for delivery (Ontario Only). See the website for details.<br />
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<strong>Final Verdict:</strong> Wow! Great craft cider from an Ontario cider maker. I would definitely get this cider again. It is hard to compare it to anything else as I haven't had anything else like it which makes it unique. This cider is gluten free. Great cider to have with a meal, as it not like your traditional hard cider. The taste is really subtle, there is not one thing that is overpowering in it. Very sophisticated. <br />
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<strong>Rating:</strong> 9.5 out of 10 <br />
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Cheers!Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-57966577530006465642013-05-26T16:14:00.001-04:002013-05-26T16:14:16.207-04:00Sir Isaac's Premium Pear Cider<div style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: times new roman, new york, times, serif; font-size: 12pt;">
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First of all I would
like to thank @OntCraftCider (Ontario Hard Cider) for providing me with this product to
sample and review. I am not an expert on cider by any means but as an avid
cider drinker I know what I like and what I don't. </div>
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6.5% alc.vol per 341 ml bottle</div>
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Available: LCBO -
$2.75 per 473ml can</div>
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<span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"> <span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"> <span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"> <span class="yiv0296756919tab" id="yui_3_7_2_16_1369597254854_281" style="right: auto;"> Puddicombe Cider Company
- please see website for information</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.puddicombecider.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_16_1369597254854_269" rel="nofollow" style="right: auto;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">www.Puddicombecider.com</span></a></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" style="right: auto;"><span class="yiv0296756919tab" id="yui_3_7_2_16_1369597254854_274" style="right: auto;"><strong>Twitter:</strong>
@puddicombecider</span></span></span></span></div>
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<strong>Pour:</strong> No carbonation</div>
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<strong>Aroma:</strong> Pear</div>
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<strong>Colour:</strong> Clear</div>
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<strong>Taste:</strong> Distinct pear taste but not overpowering. To me, it had a dry
finish.....wine like.</div>
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<strong>Texture:</strong> I found it
to be smooth and creamy. </div>
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<strong>History:</strong> I tend to
visit the websites of the producers after I have finished their product. I
gleamed from Puddicombe's website that their cider is 100% pear. It does contain sulphites and isinglass. As well,
they give you pairing suggestions and how best to serve their product. You can
also purchase their cider directly from them if you cannot find it in the LCBO.
Their website also confirmed it is gluten free. </div>
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<strong>My Final Thoughts:</strong> I
put this cider in the fridge to chill, as I tend not to drink my cider over ice.
I found this to be quite refreshing and not very acidic. It achieved a fine
balance of not being overly sweet or dry. As mentioned before, I found it to
have a creamy, silky texture and very subtle taste....something I have never
really experienced before. Great alternative to wine with meals but it can also
be a cider that you take to a party on a hot summers night. I must admit I was
a bit leary of trying pear based ciders, but this one has dispelled any worries
I may have had. Like Sir Isaac Brock who charged up that hill in the battle of
Queenston, this cider leads the pack in pear ciders. </div>
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<strong>Rating:</strong> 8.6 out of
10 </div>
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Cheers!</div>
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Laurie</div>
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PS....Give this pear cider a go and let's support our Ontario Hard Cider makers! </div>
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Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-29975158191198046892013-04-08T17:34:00.000-04:002013-04-08T17:34:04.922-04:00Spirit Tree: ApelagerFirst 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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong> Pour</strong>: 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.<br />
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<strong>Colour:</strong> As mentioned, it poured out cloudy, and it remained so, but the longer it sat, you could see a faint pale yellow.<br />
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<strong>Texture:</strong> 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. <br />
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<strong>Taste:</strong> 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.<br />
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<strong>My Final Thoughts: </strong>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!<br />
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<strong>Rating:</strong> Right up there with their pub cider....this one gets an 8.1 out of 10. <br />
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For further information you can visit their website at <a href="http://www.spirittreecider.com/">www.spirittreecider.com</a><br />
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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!<br />
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Cheers,<br />
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LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-60118705618689971182013-04-01T21:31:00.002-04:002013-04-02T07:58:10.651-04:00Spirit Tree: Traditional Pub Cider<br />
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I first tried this cider at C'est What in Toronto. This amazing place serves only craft ciders and beers. NO big name corporate bigwigs here. I had my choice of the Traditional Pub cider or their Perry Cider. I decided to go with the above as I have tried many ciders over the past few years here and abroad.<br />
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<strong>The Specifics:</strong> 6% alc.vol per 341 ml bottle<br />
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<strong>The Pour:</strong> I was lucky enough to be given a glass, so I will able to pour out this liquid gold on my own. It was clear, not cloudy, with some carbonation. No foaming head. <br />
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<strong>Aroma:</strong> Distinct apple smell. I didn't get the chance to smell the cider when the lid was first popped opened.<br />
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<strong>The Colour:</strong> Well in the pub light it looks crystal clear. It is light in colour.<br />
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<strong>Initial Taste:</strong> When I took my first sip, I thought it was very clean, with a hint of citrus. At first, I thought it was a sweet cider, but as soon as you swallowed it finished off being more on the dry side.<br />
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<strong>Further Reflection:</strong> After my first few sips, and giving it a swish around the pallet, I picked up a slight creamy texture with a smokey finish. I found this cider to be very complex in flavour...one moment I pick up citrus tones, then it's creamy then back to citrus. That's what I call teasing the taste buds. I am sure, each drinker would pick up different flavours and undertones. Near the end, I had decided that this is happy medium cider....not overly sweet nor not a overly dry. The dry taste definitely comes at the end of each sip, especially if there is long periods in between each sip.<br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> This is one cider I would recommend to any experienced and first time cider drinker. It did remind me of the various ciders I tried while over in the UK. The complex tones of this bevy will have each individual experiencing different tastes. I found it wasn't too acidic which is what I like. I hope to get my hands on more of this excellent cider. <br />
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<strong>History:</strong> Well I won't go into great detail as Spirit Tree has an amazing website. For further information visit <a href="http://www.spirittreecider.com/">www.spirittreecider.com</a> or on twitter @SpiritTreeCider. <br />
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<strong>Rating:</strong> I give this 8.3 out of 10. <br />
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Cheers,<br />
<br />
Laurie<br />
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<br />Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-28448551114485137512013-03-17T17:14:00.002-04:002013-03-24T17:08:52.330-04:00Carrick Old Boys CiderMy friend Ruth and myself went to this cider event in Toronto being held at Tequila Bookworm. Put on by @CiderToronto, it was showcasing 12 different <strong><u>Ontario</u></strong> ciders. My mission was to try something that wasn't available at the LCBO. After browsing the list, Ruth and I decided to split a bottle of Carrick Old Boys Cider. I wish I had remembered to take a picture, but by the time I remembered it was mostly consumed.<br />
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<strong>Carrick Wines:</strong> Located in Carrick Township, in Bruce County, Carrick Wines produces cider and other goods using local produce. They have a really neat website. They offer tours and you can place an order on line. A minimum of 3 bottles is required. Of course there is a delivery charge. Their website is <a href="http://www.carrickwines.ca/">www.carrickwines.ca</a> Their twitter handle is @Carrick_Wines<br />
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<strong>The Scoop:</strong> The alcohol content is 6.3% per 750ml bottle. To quote the information found on the list provided "Old Boys Cider is a slight off dry still cider, produced in the traditional way, using a high quality apple blend."<br />
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<strong>The Pour:</strong> What I liked was that there was low carbonation. <br />
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<strong>Aroma:</strong> No matter how hard we tried, we could not get a distinct smell of apples. <br />
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<strong>The Taste:</strong> This cider produced a great conversation between the two of us. We both agreed it had a light, dry, crisp and clean tart taste. Obviously it was made from apples but it wasn't in your face. <br />
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<strong>Synopsis:</strong> I had noted that I really enjoyed it but, wasn't the type of cider I would crack open after work or on a hot summers day. What we did decide is that this would be an excellent choice to have in place of wine when serving a meal. Though it is sweeter than most wines, it is mellow and sophisticated enough to please your guests. Why not bring a bottle instead of wine at your next dinner engagement! This is the type of cider, I would have a special occasions, but not for everyday consumption. Overall it was a great cider and we enjoyed it!!<br />
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<strong>Rating:</strong> Ruth gave it an 8 out of 10. Me: 7.8 out of 10<br />
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On another note, it was a pleasure meeting @OnCraftCider and @Pommiesdry. Thanks to @tequilabookworm for hosting this great event. We need more businesses in Ontario to start supporting our local cider makers. <br />
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Cheers!<br />
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LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-66170359705322408092013-03-10T15:52:00.002-04:002013-03-10T15:52:46.506-04:00 GrandeTentation Rose Cider<br />
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Size: 330ml bottle<br />
Alc/vol: 6.4%<br />
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I have been very lax lately (3 months almost) in writing my thoughts about various ciders I have had the opportunity to try. I have been sampling many but instead of writing my thoughts down I was too busy enjoying myself.<br />
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On my visit to Montreal way back in October, I happened to pick up a bottle of Michel Jodoin carbonated crackling rose cider Grand Tentation. The fact as the name suggests it was rose in colour was enough for me to give it a try.<br />
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<strong>The pour:</strong> No foaming head but very carbonated. Minutes after the pour the little tiny bubbles were still jumping away in the glass. <br />
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<strong>The Taste:</strong> Now unlike your traditional apple ciders, this bevy was very fruity. In fact, I couldn't taste any apple at all. Yet according to their website it is is made from Geneva and McIntosh apples. Wow, if you can hide the tones of apples then it is a great job. My first impression was that it was more of a wine than cider. At the same time, it was very enjoyable and a great change to your apple tasting hard core ciders. It did have a bit of a sour bite too it. Credit to the the cider maker for making this unique drink.<br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> I really did enjoy this and would have it again. The downside is that the carbonation got the stomach growling and rolling away. Would this be an everyday cider one would have at the pub?.....No. It it is the type of cider that could be served in place of wine at dinner or just to have as a variation from your traditional ciders. It is for this reason I give it 7.8 out of 10.<br />
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For more information on this specific cider or other products available visit their website at: <a href="http://www.micheljodoin.ca/en">http://www.micheljodoin.ca/en</a>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-9187781914603193932012-12-21T19:27:00.000-05:002012-12-21T19:27:10.558-05:00McKeown Draft CiderI went to Montreal one weekend for meet up with my cousins who I hadn't seen for a while. Now, my goal was to try and find various ciders. Well, it turns out that the main stream ciders or craft ciders found here in Ontario were to be found in Quebec. So what does one do in Montreal...find French cuisine, restaurant....no....we went to an Irish Pub. My cousin Amanda and I headed over to Le Vieux Dublin. We looked at the menu and I was excited to see McKeown's was available. Amanda has sampled cider before so she ordered up one as well. Our drinks finally arrived, and I have to admit I forgot to take a picture. <br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> A pale coloured cider, with a real apple kick. It very much tastes like your traditional English ciders. It was smooth and not too tart. As for it's taste I would call a semi-sweet. A happy medium of not having a dry cider or overtly sweet. In the words of Amanda "It's not hard to swallow!" Amanda really did enjoy this cider and so did I. I can't say if with the pour if there was any carbonation, but when it did arrive at our table there was no carbonation to be found. The nose was fruity.<br />
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I rate this cider a 7.9 out of 10 as Amanda and I had a few that night!<br />
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<strong>Now for the pub</strong>: Le Vieux Dublin was a rocking establishment. We got one of the last tables. They normally have live entertainment. That night there was a live performance. The band was playing traditional Irish songs. Which I may add, I recognized a few and was able to sing along. If you want a truly Irish pub experience in Montreal then this is the place to visit.<br />
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As for the makers of McKeown's, I found their website which was in French. I continued doing some more research and found a bit of bio in English. To quote from this website patawine.com this is what I came up with.<br />
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<strong>"Created in 2004 by Robert McKeown and Andrée St-Denis, the McKeown ciderworks produces ciders inspired </strong><strong>from those found in English, Irish and Scottish pubs. The McKeown Original Cider is available in 30-liter one-way </strong><strong>kegs and in 750 ml bottles. This product is currently distributed in Québec, Japan, England and in the US. ." For more information head on over to the website quoted above. By the way it is 6% alc/vol per bottle.</strong></div>
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Cheers!</span></span>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-41101737139493798322012-12-21T18:45:00.000-05:002012-12-21T18:45:55.737-05:00Woodchuck AmberMy brother's best bud came up from Detroit and brought me a 6 pack of this cider. Woodchuck is not available in Canada so this was a unique treat. Bought in Michigan but made in Vermont I was looking forward to partaking in this beauty. I cracked open my first bottle and proceeded to pour out this liquid gold not knowing what flavours would be present.<br />
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The pour was pretty straight forward....no foamy head but lots of carbonation. Golden in colour there was no overpowering aroma. After 5 minutes there was still the tiny little bubbles popping away. I took my first sip and found it really sweet. It reminded me of the many ciders I have had over in the UK. It had that champagne/wine after bite to it. I was trying to pick a specific flavouring but it was hard to do. I did the swish around the mouth but still no luck....but it did make the taste buds tingle at the end of my tongue. In the end, I was convinced I was getting a caramel undertone. This bevy was smooth and silky. <br />
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My exposure to American hard cider is limited but this is a good choice. I rate this 7.9 out of 10. <br />
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For more information on this product or other ciders offered by this company you can visit their website at <a href="http://www.woodchuck.com/">http://www.woodchuck.com/</a> or follow them on twitter @woodchuckCider. Their website gives a brief synopsis on each variety of cider, along with the history of the company.<br />
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Cheers!Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-63755238167953585042012-11-21T20:13:00.000-05:002012-11-21T20:13:09.800-05:00Appledram Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Brewer:</strong> Appledram Farm Products<br />
<strong>Location:</strong> Near Chichester, West Sussex<br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://appledram-cider.co.uk/home.html">http://appledram-cider.co.uk/home.html</a><br />
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<strong>The Company: </strong>Appledram Farm products was established in 1983, in the West Sussex Coastal plain. According to the little history found on the back of the bottle, they produce ciders using centuries old methods. Apparently, the West Sussex Coastal plain is considered to be one of the ancient orchard sites of England. Well the ancestor's did like their ciders back then too! <br />
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<strong>The Cider:</strong> Jo purchased this cider while in Arundel and brought it back to London. On our last night in London, we decided to open this puppy up. Again, because of the lack of a fridge or ice, this cider was served at room temperature. I feel this didn't do this cider justice. This 500ml bottle packed 6.8% alc. With the pour there was no carbonation. As for the taste, it was dry. The after taste had a wine like bite to it and for the fact I had tried a couple of different scrumpy ciders this reminded me of a scrumpy. All I could gather from the brief history written on the label is that this product was a traditional draught cider. I really would have liked to have tried this chilled or over ice. Something to look forward too.<br />
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To quote Samuel Johnson " When a Man is tired of London, he is tired of life!" So true!! I hope you have enjoyed my reviews on all the different ciders I tried while in England. <br />
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Cheers!<br />
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LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-69203541701903810232012-11-17T17:58:00.004-05:002012-11-17T17:58:57.765-05:001st Quality Cider by WestonsI tried this bevy at a Taylor Walker pub called The Sussex in Leicester Square. It was my second last day in England, and my buddies and myself were just walking around enjoying the beautiful city of London. Stopped in for lunch and of course a pint. To my surprise and shock I saw the posters for the Taylor Walker Cider Festival that was going to run from September 10-23 featuring 16 festival ciders. Great something I would have loved to participated in and I would be back in Canada. I asked the server about it and she said that they actually had some of the ciders in stock. I explained I loved trying different ciders so she went and asked if I would be able to try some as I wouldn't be in the country during the festival. Sure enough, I was given the opportunity to do so. Since it was a festival special, I was limited to a half a pint. No matter, I was going to enjoy this.<br />
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Now they had 4 available at that time. I asked the server (I wish I had gotten her name...I do know she was from Australia) if she had tried any of them. She had and she described each cider and I asked her recommendation and she chose the 1st Quality for me to try.<br />
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<strong>The Cider: </strong>I have to admit, I took this info off the card they gave me and from the server. 1st Quality is a well balanced, smooth and fruity in flavour. It will leave behind a taste of bittersweet apples. It is a medium still cider with an alcohol content of 5%. The server said it was best served at room temperature so that is how I received it.<br />
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<strong>My Opinion: </strong>My half pint arrived after just being poured from the tap and the colouring was very cloudy. After it settled the colour became more apparent. It was a deep golden colour. For me it had a nice apple taste and not a strong after bite. I really enjoyed it and it went well with my lunch. It wasn't heavy and taste...very light. I would give this cider a 8 out of 10 and the pub and server a 10 out of 10 as she was very friendly and knowledgeable and the pub was packed and lively on a weekday lunch break. I hope the next time I make it over there, I will be able to try this one again.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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Laurie<br />
<br />Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-73289814021502690042012-11-15T19:17:00.000-05:002012-11-15T20:34:04.762-05:00Jack Ratt Scrumpy Cider<strong>Producer:</strong> Lyme Bay Cider Co<br />
6% alc<br />
<strong>Website:</strong> <a href="http://www.lymebaywinery.co.uk/pages/cider.php">http://www.lymebaywinery.co.uk/pages/cider.php</a><br />
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<strong>History:</strong> Who was Jack Rattenbury? Born in 1778, this gentleman was known as Rob Roy of the West. From an early age he started life out on the boats. After a while this fisherman became a smuggler and became involved in different activities including running a pub. Jack called it a day in 1844.<br />
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<strong>The Company:</strong> Lyme Bay Winery not only make wine but they also make ciders and other products. They use locally grown cider apples to make their various ciders such as Dabinett, Kingston Black and Yarlington Mill, to produce a quality range of real, full flavoured ciders. Lyme Bay is located in the West Country (Devon). <br />
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<strong>The Cider:</strong> Jack Ratt Scrumpy cider was named after Jack Rattenbury....how appropriate. As you can tell by my picture, I had purchased the one ltr flagon. I was sharing this cider with my other cider buddy Jo. We had purchased this while out on one of our day trips. We brought it back to our room where Carol, Jo and myself realized not a fridge or ice was available. I attempted to chill it by placing it in the sink filled with cold water but it really didn't help. In the end we just opened it up as our time in England was coming to a close. We poured the cider and there was no carbonation. The colour was a unique deep orange/gold/copper combination. Really hard to describe. Now with the taste this is where Jo and I differed. Jo thought it had a smokey taste to it especially the after taste. As for me, I thought it was unique. I couldn't really get the smokey after taste, but I did notice that it didn't have a distinct apple taste. The fact that it wasn't chilled or served over ice, it didn't do it justice. So far that reason I will not rate this cider as I feel I did not get the full experience. Note, to one's self.....either make sure you have access to ice or a fridge in the room. What I did gather from their website that it is a still, medium cider so if you ever get to England give it a try. I will try it again and hopefully chilled or over ice.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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Laurie<br />
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<br />Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-30728084416849905842012-11-01T20:50:00.000-04:002012-11-01T20:50:10.104-04:00Biddenden Strong Kentish Cider Dry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>The Story:</strong> Well after being in England for over a week, my friends and myself decided a day trip to Dover was in order. It was a beautiful day for September...warm and sunny....yes that's right sunny! We hoped on the train and a way we went. We arrived in Dover, and the first place of call (besides the tourist information centre) was Dover Castle. Well, let's just say whoever chose the location way back when picked a great spot. Perched way up on the top of the cliffs stands this great castle. There still stands a Roman light house and a church from the 1200's. Well after huffing and puffing my way up the hill ( by the way, I still had a chest cold when I arrived), and cursing under my breath, we made it. Spent a great day checking out the church, the Keep and grounds and some of the war time tunnels. Then we hit the medieval tunnels....built way underground and under the Keep are these tunnels. I was pumped as history is my favourite subject. I went down the tunnels with great enthusiasm.....well remember what goes down must come up. I didn't think I was going to make it out. Fighting the last strands of a chest cold,walking for hours and being parched was a taking it's toll. Well, I made it! Next stop was the cafe. I was thinking tea, maybe water to quench my thirst. As I browsed the cooler to see what was available I came across....gold!!!! CIDER! Well I only had one choice.....I bought it to quench the thirst and to rejuvenate myself.<br />
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<strong>The Cider:</strong> I purchased the cider, poured it into my glass and then decided to read the label....oh oh...8.4% alc. for a 330ml bottle. Well it was going to make walking along the pier interesting. According to the bottle, it is made from a blend of desert and culinary apples. The apples were grown in the Garden of England. My picture doesn't do it justice but, the colour of the cider is very light. Translucent almost. With the pour there was no carbonation. My friend Carol, who is wine drinker, said that it looked like a wine, than a cider. I am not much a wine drinker, so Carol had a sip and in her opinion it tasted more like wine than a cider. I have to say, it was very dry and it really had the taste of wine and not at all like cider. But being said, I would say this was a very sophisticated cider. If you like the idea of a "mature" cider then this is one to try. It doesn't have a very strong apple taste or aroma. My other advice, eat food! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCBkjuOoo-wuGbq9HbWHhK7t-Q9wIR1PKROAu5nbgdNJcdm-j6RE2MmoF6CUibin__IugcGTO1I2VkLdg1Y6FG41hXVqmb7jDjXbB_4GTbtb_0nL6Tbc7gpmG1KByOvT9e5uzu3e5TXc/s1600/Biddenden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCBkjuOoo-wuGbq9HbWHhK7t-Q9wIR1PKROAu5nbgdNJcdm-j6RE2MmoF6CUibin__IugcGTO1I2VkLdg1Y6FG41hXVqmb7jDjXbB_4GTbtb_0nL6Tbc7gpmG1KByOvT9e5uzu3e5TXc/s1600/Biddenden.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong>Rating:</strong> I give this cider 7.9 out of 10 just for the fact it was something unique, but not your average cider to drink everyday. I would call it my sophistication cider. Worth to try if you make it over to England (Kent). I have included their website: <a href="http://www.biddendenvineyards.com/">http://www.biddendenvineyards.com</a> for further information.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9C6iPh-I2hCnrzhiAYimX7h7knv0ol3wtO_DH8lAgbpmqtiJ2rwUe75sYMdOgyaaJNlOhQaLT_8Rk7Wxw5v4cGdR4XBjSXcN0PDAppA5se9VmhzXWxrp7MsbglNoMmfgT8gfgN_MNIY/s1600/Biddenden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9C6iPh-I2hCnrzhiAYimX7h7knv0ol3wtO_DH8lAgbpmqtiJ2rwUe75sYMdOgyaaJNlOhQaLT_8Rk7Wxw5v4cGdR4XBjSXcN0PDAppA5se9VmhzXWxrp7MsbglNoMmfgT8gfgN_MNIY/s1600/Biddenden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
Cheers!<br />
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-6018268614886357592012-10-29T21:21:00.000-04:002012-10-29T21:21:47.056-04:00HP Bulmers Original Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vnfdFMLff7xmCfIkAopmpWzLfRT6DpVAuFULEwJfJYC7FVIjgZNRPFp9tffrRoSWIxpRwu6OKbAmhjnVWRFfJ5vvKURrEwBnd-UZ3P2XmQ_IeDcNJ-bFzRKxdreXTIyDu_PWRYiuWDQ/s1600/Bulmers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vnfdFMLff7xmCfIkAopmpWzLfRT6DpVAuFULEwJfJYC7FVIjgZNRPFp9tffrRoSWIxpRwu6OKbAmhjnVWRFfJ5vvKURrEwBnd-UZ3P2XmQ_IeDcNJ-bFzRKxdreXTIyDu_PWRYiuWDQ/s1600/Bulmers.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black;">Size: 568ml bottle</span><br />
4.5% alc<br />
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<strong>History:</strong> Founded in 1887 in Hereford, England. They produce other types of cider besides this one. It use to be available at the LCBO but no longer. The website isn't really a website but they do have a facebook page and a twitter account. Facebook <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BulmersUK">http://www.facebook.com/BulmersUK</a> and twitter @bulmerscider<br />
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<strong>The Colour:</strong> Golden<br />
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<strong>The Pour: </strong>Some carbonation, but it disappeared shortly after.<br />
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<strong>The Taste:</strong> I found this to be a sweeter cider than some of the ones I had tried on this trip. There is a hint of apples but not overpowering. It is one of those I couldn't begin to guess which apples were used to make this bevy.<br />
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<strong>Synopsis: </strong>Well, I tried getting away of not having ice, but low and behold, I was given a glass with ice. So, when in Rome, I mean England do what the locals do. I poured this cider, and as mentioned there was some carbonation. There wasn't an overpowering smell of apples coming from this product. My friend Jo loves Bulmers and is one if not her favourite cider over 'ome. I have to admit it goes down really smooth. Clean crisp taste to tantalize the pallet. It is one of the best I have had over there. But if you prefer a dry cider, then this maybe on the sweet side for you. I highly recommend you give this one a try if you ever head over to the UK. It really quenches the thirst one can work up. I can attest to that as I had this bevy after spending a glorious day exploring Arundel Castle and town.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDGLm6OLFqX4C3LBhcCW8CRtwJwKlb1hQ-gS4TXOy4Lq1gVLTkKyMOI9CgIkod9asMWBa5Zb3tJOl7poX3tR8CaR9G4N9hHZ0k7v3-1CY4Q0eUKLzbIUiv_WWzCGvClzls4d4Uhvj2H4/s1600/File0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJDGLm6OLFqX4C3LBhcCW8CRtwJwKlb1hQ-gS4TXOy4Lq1gVLTkKyMOI9CgIkod9asMWBa5Zb3tJOl7poX3tR8CaR9G4N9hHZ0k7v3-1CY4Q0eUKLzbIUiv_WWzCGvClzls4d4Uhvj2H4/s320/File0219.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>Rating:</strong> Me 8.5 out of 10 and Jo 9 out of 10<br />
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<strong>The Pub: </strong>Had my bevy at the Swan Hotel. This pub is part of the Fullers chain. Not only is it a pub, it has a tea room and rooms rent to rest your head for a day or two. The dining area is quaint quiet area, and the bar area has lots of tables. This area was very lively with tourists and locals. It is very close to the castle and the river Arun. This area is in the south of England not far from Brighton.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4DxDAoRJSAjB7NjIamUoN0cqZXV2KeHdhw76KHmIOKemptYr_g9wXjkVtd-UiCf8LyB3IP1YWNI7eCt7kGluNcIKRTPR9vfyhCarHhPtmQP1xtXajns7Yi5CtYpxO4NdhfedDkXI7YLw/s1600/S1052251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4DxDAoRJSAjB7NjIamUoN0cqZXV2KeHdhw76KHmIOKemptYr_g9wXjkVtd-UiCf8LyB3IP1YWNI7eCt7kGluNcIKRTPR9vfyhCarHhPtmQP1xtXajns7Yi5CtYpxO4NdhfedDkXI7YLw/s320/S1052251.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Website: <a href="http://www.swanarundel.co.uk/">http://www.swanarundel.co.uk/</a>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-28282179229432663692012-10-28T20:29:00.000-04:002012-10-28T20:29:04.254-04:00Aspall Crisp Draught Suffolk Cyder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-AR5jIWaTLeJaAJ7zmJakfSRFJZHLm_3VPFEm7IqRXexnl269w2VXD1V53ZmxQO2Af0tY4fxBSFQnW1KFYpgne5e0KBV99NqXA8jRiohHzM-Aj-0oED2eg33zYC7gthaahS_N5DLt04/s1600/Aspall+Cyder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-AR5jIWaTLeJaAJ7zmJakfSRFJZHLm_3VPFEm7IqRXexnl269w2VXD1V53ZmxQO2Af0tY4fxBSFQnW1KFYpgne5e0KBV99NqXA8jRiohHzM-Aj-0oED2eg33zYC7gthaahS_N5DLt04/s1600/Aspall+Cyder.jpg" /></a></div>
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The Cyder: 5.5% alc<br />
Size: 330 or 500 ml bottle<br />
Website: <a href="http://www.aspall.co.uk/">http://www.aspall.co.uk</a><br />
Twitter: @Aspall<br />
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<strong>History of Aspall:</strong> Aspall was established in 1728 by Clement Chevallier, and relaunched in 2000. It has been the Chevalliers family for centuries. The website listed above is a great site to find out more about the various products and history of the family.<br />
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<strong>The Colour: </strong>Mid straw colour, hint of golden in various light.<br />
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<strong>Aroma:</strong> Mild apple<br />
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<strong>The Taste: </strong>Medium dry with a long, intriguing finish.<br />
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<strong>The Pour:</strong> The server gave me a glass of ice with this bevy, so I decided to give it ago. I normally, like my drink chilled but ice free. There was no carbonation with the pour and none afterwards. What I liked about this cyder, is that the flavours were not present right away, but after. It wasn't an overpowering apple taste, but there was enough of a hint of apple to know you were drinking an apple based beverage. It was a really neat cyder. I wish it was available in Canada. <br />
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<strong>The Rating:</strong> 8.5 out of 10<br />
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<strong>The Pub: </strong>I tried this beauty at the Punch and Judy Pub in Covent Garden, London England. It is one of the pubs you must visit while in London. Based in a bustling market square, it a great place to go and relax after a hard day of shopping or sight seeing. The pub is two levels. We ate in the cellar level. It had that old pub feel to it with wood paneling and brick walls and vaulted arches. The area we were in had brick ceilings, which gave the whole area a quaint, cosy atmosphere, yet it was bustling and full of life. The website is <a href="http://www.taylor-walker.co.uk/pub/punch-and-judy-covent-garden-piazza">http://www.taylor-walker.co.uk/pub/punch-and-judy-covent-garden-piazza</a> it is indepth and a good tool to see if it has your bevy and food of choice.<br />
Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-50410872015661918902012-09-30T18:32:00.000-04:002012-09-30T18:32:20.524-04:00Scrumpy by Westons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyv50YYvfltDR5jqt8bMUtXdaFqzQadlCjo0bn2ohnlq1lAlP3j8QHEumqH5l5PdWoLgVETJ9u7p5TJcd9KsgZeoJcBvk_AJkY924M7k8uPI8m7EMp23xU8xuFrY5Yux2_4HHXUaXayQc/s1600/Scrumpy+by+Westons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyv50YYvfltDR5jqt8bMUtXdaFqzQadlCjo0bn2ohnlq1lAlP3j8QHEumqH5l5PdWoLgVETJ9u7p5TJcd9KsgZeoJcBvk_AJkY924M7k8uPI8m7EMp23xU8xuFrY5Yux2_4HHXUaXayQc/s1600/Scrumpy+by+Westons.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong>The Pub:</strong> 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.<br />
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<strong>The Cider: </strong>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. <br />
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<strong>A Brief History:</strong> 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: <strong> </strong><a href="http://www.westons-cider.co.uk/"><strong>http://www.westons-cider.co.uk/</strong></a> 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.<br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> 6.9 out of 10Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-42389969631086356272012-09-23T16:09:00.000-04:002012-09-23T16:09:24.475-04:00Magners Golden Draught<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIw636kIWITaF3S2R8vV5EgG7nTGpBMkmVrf1BjlZnnp2hA1DXK3GFdM0_zWDmNXvlgqewAxlyQecwDQTVgf4iD7YBQ223aRVPxJCAwQ7ielTuahgzz-fWpXuWqJgo6u_5ENzgylS-qA/s1600/MGD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIw636kIWITaF3S2R8vV5EgG7nTGpBMkmVrf1BjlZnnp2hA1DXK3GFdM0_zWDmNXvlgqewAxlyQecwDQTVgf4iD7YBQ223aRVPxJCAwQ7ielTuahgzz-fWpXuWqJgo6u_5ENzgylS-qA/s1600/MGD.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong>The Cider:</strong> Of course when you are getting poured a pint you don't have the chance to really watch how the cider pours. I have tried to find out some information about this product and the following was copied from their website.<br />
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"Magners Golden Draught is produced with the same craft, care and dedication as Magners Original Irish Cider in bottles. The product, however, differs from bottled Magners as it is made using a higher proportion of the smaller, harder Dabinett and Michelin apples. This produces a crisper, less sweet taste which is perfect for draught cider. Magners Golden Draught is served extra cold so there is no need for ice." You can find this information at <a href="http://www.candcgroupplc.com/brands/ciders/magners">http://www.candcgroupplc.com/brands/ciders/magners</a> (this is the parent company home page but there is an official Magners home page. ) <br />
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<strong>The Consumer Review:</strong> Well what can I say.....I loved it. Just like they state on their website it had a cool, crisp taste. It was nice and smooth.....I could easily have given up shopping and and sat back and drink these all day. I had spent a great deal of time already walking around London and had made it over to Camden Market. Before long, I was dying of thirst and decided a cider was in order. After the bar tender had poured my cider I could see the glass had frosted from the pour as it is served extra cold. The picture above shows some frosting on the glass and believe me you did not need to drink this cider over ice. You could not get a distinctive taste of apple and that could be in part that its served extra cold and that the smoothness of the cider makes you forget about the taste. I was more amazed I must admit about the crispness of the cider to really pay attention to what undertones were present or what the dominate flavour was.<br />
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<strong>The Restaurant:</strong> I first tried this cider at Lock 107 in Camden. This is modern pub/restaurant with seating inside and out. Depending where you sat, you had a view of the locks, vendor's stalls or the covered market. The staff were friendly and very helpful, and we the day was sunny and hot so it was non stop for them.<br />
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Throughout the week I was in the UK I had tired this cider a few times and it never disappointed. My only complaint is that it's not available in Canada. One can only hope or it will have to be my special treat when I visit the UK again.<br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> One of my favourites so this one gets a 9.5 out of 10.<br />
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You can follow them on twitter @magnersUK<br />
<br />Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-28645860920423025552012-09-17T20:44:00.001-04:002012-09-17T20:44:32.432-04:00Symonds Founders ReserveI am now back from my vacation to the UK and missing it already. This will be the first of many postings on the various ciders I sampled.<br />
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One of the first ciders I tried was Symonds. I had this cider at the Bear Inn in Oxford. This cider was on tap so me and my friend Jo each had a pint to enjoy all it's worth.<br />
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I tried finding out some information but their website is currently unavailable. This is what I did find out. Symonds Founder’s Reserve 5.5% abv. It is made from Herefordshire cider apples including <a href="http://www.ukcider.co.uk/wiki/index.php/Dabinett" title="Dabinett">Dabinett</a> & <a class="new" href="http://www.ukcider.co.uk/wiki/index.php?title=Michelin&action=edit&redlink=1" title="Michelin (page does not exist)">Michelin</a> varietals. Based in Stoke Lacy, Herefordshire it was founded in 1727. It remained in family ownership until a takeover in 1984 by another company and then it was sold to Bulmers in 1989 (which is part of the Heineken family).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11SFNLcIHkQD6arMKkTJdtrRdyrCEzCPWIsaP-upDO6TaloLZzPuay5M2lF7iYILLsxQOwsHFfuRVqxW6il8BhPDWJ-poAb3Uhyw3xjVgO4cMftqfXRzU7TrwLj0Tcb6v3Z9q-WVa1LU/s1600/symonds+cider+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi11SFNLcIHkQD6arMKkTJdtrRdyrCEzCPWIsaP-upDO6TaloLZzPuay5M2lF7iYILLsxQOwsHFfuRVqxW6il8BhPDWJ-poAb3Uhyw3xjVgO4cMftqfXRzU7TrwLj0Tcb6v3Z9q-WVa1LU/s1600/symonds+cider+3.jpg" /></a><strong>The Taste:</strong> Symonds has a traditional cider taste, not to sweet with clean crisp finish. At one point I thought there was a citrus undertone.<br />
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<strong>Colour:</strong> Golden Yellow<br />
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<strong>Verdict:</strong> Jo and I thoroughly enjoyed this cider. The fact that it was smooth and that we both enjoyed it even though we have different taste in cider. We both give this cider 8.5 out of 10.<br />
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<strong>The Pub:</strong> The Bear Inn was established in 1242 is Oxford's oldest pub. The pub was small and quaint. Very low ceilings gave it the cosy feel. The area by the bar was packed, but we managed to find a table in the area I would call the snug. On the ceiling and walls were a collection of ties that people have left over the years. This area also had the fire place (not sure if it works) and the garden in the back for those hot summer days and nights. I have to say the garden was rocking as it was a beautiful sunny day in Oxford. This is a must stop for a quick pint or for a break as there is plenty to see in Oxford. The website for the Bear Inn is <a href="http://bearoxford.co.uk/">http://bearoxford.co.uk/</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBjkhf2St_vivLik5Qi3EkuP0JGvG8odwv8fGEP0Dnrc19dgsr5V73gCuFNWZEIWJyg1hdKBNUj8LdeVxKjFE-suX9mRwDxV3DYKIo5DXJDtgqd4ASE92AH3YBGbuHT8QjrOCnCWXZA4/s1600/Me+at+the+Bear+Pub+Oxford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoBjkhf2St_vivLik5Qi3EkuP0JGvG8odwv8fGEP0Dnrc19dgsr5V73gCuFNWZEIWJyg1hdKBNUj8LdeVxKjFE-suX9mRwDxV3DYKIo5DXJDtgqd4ASE92AH3YBGbuHT8QjrOCnCWXZA4/s1600/Me+at+the+Bear+Pub+Oxford.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my Symonds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFiIZAyuNDbuw4D7pRXbkfNUPaTtMJlxEZ17iranLACBkx2SOCIqgIg-tVRRo1hj4sBUydh0sHnfjrfafZGnvRfqjbWBjLYMNf8CK-kQ024PPUPEIkmK_lwISP82cMhcD6xcoliEFUm0/s1600/securedownload%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFiIZAyuNDbuw4D7pRXbkfNUPaTtMJlxEZ17iranLACBkx2SOCIqgIg-tVRRo1hj4sBUydh0sHnfjrfafZGnvRfqjbWBjLYMNf8CK-kQ024PPUPEIkmK_lwISP82cMhcD6xcoliEFUm0/s200/securedownload%5B1%5D.jpg" width="88" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sample of the ties on the walls and ceiling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-26630614207355550862012-08-21T19:55:00.002-04:002012-08-21T19:55:48.854-04:00Cider ThoughtsWell, this summer I have been drinking some of my favourites that I have already reviewed so hence the lack of activity in reviewing ciders. I have been enjoying the different flavours of Growers cider, Thornbury and Waupoos Cider (have to admit I haven't done a review of the later).<br />
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I am impressed that more restaurants, bars, pubs are carrying more cider and not just the imports such as Strongbow. Canadian Cider is growing and becoming more popular among cider drinkers. Various establishments are recognizing this and are starting to go Canadian and that is a good thing.<br />
<br />
I am heading over to the UK, and I am looking forward to trying the different ciders over there. They are home to the big boys such as Strongbow, Blackthorn etc, but there is a wide variety of the small independent companies as well. I will be taking my notes, to compare the various styles of British ciders with the Canadian ciders. I know, my introduction to cider was with Strongbow, Magners and Bulmers (which you can no longer get in Ontario....don't get me started on that). If you enjoy something, you expand your horizons and hence my venture into ciders made in my own backyard (a very big back yard!). I can honestly say I rank Canadian Cider right up there with British ciders.<br />
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On that note, is there any recommendations out there for ciders I should try when over in the UK (London) and any pubs I should visit?<br />
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Until then, may the ciders you drink bring you pleasure and joy!<br />
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Cheers,<br />
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LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-31116037204054676112012-08-21T19:21:00.001-04:002012-08-21T19:21:45.586-04:00Crispin Natural Hard Apple Cider - Artisanal Reserve Lansdowne<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88BxqsukFJ74H8na9rhx5zcjAwIKl7ZjMjO_hAq-FNoqtxmAX_VdQORRFBlJi6SMuCDi3PWwDoG5Jhv6qCGMcLRlOVf1Jt1oqegkzExpmhwmiaXd-0daPqFwshAEXh67L4k_8m928Sdk/s1600/mail%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88BxqsukFJ74H8na9rhx5zcjAwIKl7ZjMjO_hAq-FNoqtxmAX_VdQORRFBlJi6SMuCDi3PWwDoG5Jhv6qCGMcLRlOVf1Jt1oqegkzExpmhwmiaXd-0daPqFwshAEXh67L4k_8m928Sdk/s1600/mail%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi88BxqsukFJ74H8na9rhx5zcjAwIKl7ZjMjO_hAq-FNoqtxmAX_VdQORRFBlJi6SMuCDi3PWwDoG5Jhv6qCGMcLRlOVf1Jt1oqegkzExpmhwmiaXd-0daPqFwshAEXh67L4k_8m928Sdk/s1600/mail%255B1%255D.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
</a>Alc/Vol - 6.9%<br />
Size - 650 ml (22 Fl.Oz.)<br />
Carbohydrates - 17g<br />
Gluten Free - Yes<br />
Calories - 190<br />
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This hard apple cider is currently available in the United States only. This tasty treat was brought back by my friend James who is a craft beer and football fanatic (check out his blog <a href="http://sportingvents.blogspot.ca/">http://sportingvents.blogspot.ca/</a> )<br />
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My friend Jo who is also a cider fan, cracked this puppy open and so this review contains both our opinions. <br />
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<strong>Colour:</strong> Cloudy<br />
<strong>Pour:</strong> No head appeared with the pour, no carbonation<br />
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<strong>Smell:</strong> It didn't smell like your traditional hard apple cider. It smelled like a good strong stout. At first I was worried as being Celiac, I cannot have malt or any ingredients that contain gluten. The bottle confirmed it was gluten free. I was intrigued that a cider could smell like a stout. My friend Jo was never a beer/stout drinker so this was a new experience for her as well. <br />
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<strong>Taste: </strong>Our first impression, was that we were not drinking a cider but a stout. This hard cider does not have a hint of apple at all. Upon reflection, this bevy has a hint of butterscotch tones with a dry crisp finish.<br />
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<strong>Final Thoughts:</strong> Well my friend Jo liked the unique flavour. As for me, I enjoyed it as I use to be a beer drinker, before being diagnosed with Celiac. I found that it didn't leave a strong taste that gluten free beer leaves on the taste buds. I recommend this hard cider if you are craving that "beer taste and aroma"and if your travels take you the USA. For further information on this cider and other ciders produced by Crispin Cider you can visit their website at <a href="http://www.crispincider.com/">www.crispincider.com</a> This cider contains no added preservatives, sugars or colourants. What gives this cider it's stout taste is that one of the ingredients is Irish Stout Yeast. As recommend on the bottle, give it a full bottoms-up tilt and swirl to experience the full flavour of this beauty. As normal, I had this cider chilled, but not over ice. Thanks James for bringing back this tasty treat!<br />
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<strong>Rating: </strong>We give this cider a 7.6 out of 10. <br />
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As I always say this is my opinion (shared this time) and not an expert one. So give it try and see for yourself if this stout flavoured cider is for you.<br />
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Cheers!!<br />
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LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-72366771244465142402012-05-29T14:30:00.001-04:002012-05-30T21:44:39.385-04:00Dukes Dry Apple Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEbggTh9o6cEv_4gKRhI96_KH-bs_VGseqTK3Ja4hIp20iqjCbZB1ZMuCAdYt7NvJjkwzxE6rDDvtCxQ4JUyOCJhU9NojBBEtpfD56pspSdU_1XSPMV6SvNn85xYKHnq7xg8VKgownXA/s1600/dukes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsEbggTh9o6cEv_4gKRhI96_KH-bs_VGseqTK3Ja4hIp20iqjCbZB1ZMuCAdYt7NvJjkwzxE6rDDvtCxQ4JUyOCJhU9NojBBEtpfD56pspSdU_1XSPMV6SvNn85xYKHnq7xg8VKgownXA/s200/dukes.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Made in: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada <br />
By: Tree Brewing Company <br />
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Available: LCBO in Ontario<br />
Price: $10.95<br />
6 x 355ml cans<br />
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5.0% alc./vol<br />
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This cider became available at the LCBO at the beginning of May 2012. I had been waiting for this release from when my footie and craft beer enthusiast James had sent me the information that it was coming to Ontario. As soon it was released, my friend picked up a case and gave me a couple to try as she is a cider drinker as well. I ended up buying a 6 pack myself a couple of days later. My friend Jo and I ended up trying this cider for the very first time together so we could discuss the taste.<br />
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First of all, the serving instructions say to serve over ice. As I always mention, I like to try it without ice so I can enjoy the natural flavours. I did have the cider in the fridge so it was nicely chilled. So here we go with my review:<br />
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Pour: When you first open the can there isn't an overpowering smell of apples. I poured the cider into a glass and a white head formed but disappeared quickly. The carbonation (tiny little bubbles) subsides but never disappears. There is only a slight smell of apples.<br />
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Colour: Golden yellow<br />
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Taste: My friend Jo pointed something out after she had her first sip....she said this cider almost tasted like the ciders over in England. Jo had her first cider experience last year when she was in the UK. so for her to pick that out was a good call. <br />
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As for me, I found there was a subtle apple flavour..not overpowering. Let's just say I couldn't tell you or guess what type of apples were used as no distinct flavour stands out. Now, something unique happened as I was enjoying this drink. It didn't happen right away but I swear there was a creamy undertone to this cider. On one of my sips I could taste cream soda (not actual cream soda). Cream soda leaves a creamy taste on the palate and this happened with my first cider I tried from Dukes. I asked my friend Jo, so she took another sip, and thought about it and she said yes it had a creamy undertone to it. It wasn't present with every sip, but every once and while I would get that creamy taste. <br />
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I have had 6 Dukes before I wrote this blog and each time I have had at some point experienced the creamy texture of this cider and I like it.<br />
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Rating: I give this cider a 9.3 out of 10. This cider is for you if you like a crisp, clean dry finish cider.<br />
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Go to <a href="http://www.treebeer.com/">www.treebeer.com</a> for further information on Dukes Dry Apple Cider or on twitter @dukescider<br />
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Cheers!<br />
<br />
LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-12812993578770391412012-05-12T15:40:00.001-04:002012-05-12T15:40:54.375-04:00Somersby Apple Cider<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhggXPo381bIiFKdTPDenTSwsT2j00OEO40yVC_WC0ssrAQcHzoPC3AOuJq5vvCV8W_dbkMK5IzJO3EOhUlwEXKkj_0ssdnAkVUQj5Z79jyT2ObyZYG-0dL_mdYhcGbVtumf_5vsJS_uY/s1600/somb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhggXPo381bIiFKdTPDenTSwsT2j00OEO40yVC_WC0ssrAQcHzoPC3AOuJq5vvCV8W_dbkMK5IzJO3EOhUlwEXKkj_0ssdnAkVUQj5Z79jyT2ObyZYG-0dL_mdYhcGbVtumf_5vsJS_uY/s320/somb.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black;"><strong>Price $2.95 per 500ml can</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><strong>Where: LCBO</strong></span><br />
Made in: Denmark <br />
By:
Carlsberg Breweries A/S <br />
Ciders<br />
4.5% Alcohol/Vol.<br />
Website: <a href="http://www.somersbycider.com/">www.somersbycider.com</a><br />
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<br />Somersby Apple cider is made from fermented apple juice and natural apple flavouring. According to the website it is made with no artificial sweeteners, flavours or colourings. As normal, I didn't drink this cider over ice. I prefer my cider chilled than diluted with ice as you can experience the true natural flavours.<br />
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I happened to come across this cider on one of my trips to the LCBO. I am always looking to try new products so I thought I would give this one a shot. I started reading the can and discovered it was a cider made from one of the big boys. I know I am not a professional by any means but I am noticing a difference in taste and colour between ciders made by big companies and the local craft ciders (I say I am preferring the local ciders). Normally I write a blog entry after having sampled only one can/bottle of the product but this entry is being written after trying the product three times. There was a reason and the answer will be found in the section called <strong>The Taste</strong>.<br />
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<strong>The Pour:</strong> With the first time trying this cider, I thought wow...very little carbonation and no head. Second time: More carbonation and a slight head formed as you can see with the picture included. I noticed with my second and third time pouring, after a few minutes of sitting in the glass you can continue to hear the "sizzle" of the little bubbles. Every time the glass was tilted it made the carbonation pick up more.<br />
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<strong>The Aroma:</strong> When the can is first opened you get this very refreshing smell of fresh apples. As if it was just picked from the tree and sliced. The smell of apples is present from the first to last drop.<br />
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<strong>The Taste: </strong>This is the reason why I had to try this product more than once because the flavour of this drink was very confusing. I am not an apple professional, but the first time I tried this cider my first thought that it was made from the yellow delicious apple as it had that distinct flavour. After a while I thought it tasted like the Northern Spy. Can number three saw me come to the conclusion it was made from the apples (Macintosh?) that you buy in a bag at the grocery store. I envisioned that instead of biting into the little red apple I was drinking the juice instead (of course with a kick). My fellow friend and cider drinker Jo, had also purchased this cider and she believed that the apples used were Fuji. Go figure, two opinions and no conclusive answer. Overall the taste of this cider was very refreshing and crisp.<br />
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<strong>The Verdict:</strong> I have to say I enjoyed this cider. I found it way more refreshing than Alexander Keiths entry into the cider market. If you are looking to shake up your routine to go from local or Canadian Cider to an international cider, than this one is worth a shot.<br />
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8.9 out of 10<br />
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PS. The link which is posted above takes you to a very entertaining but informative website.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
<br />LaurieLauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-91843366753418056372012-05-03T21:03:00.000-04:002012-05-03T21:03:37.074-04:00Crispin Natural Hard Apple Cider - Artisanal Reserve Honey Crisp<div class="ndLeft">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaMrIr4-XKhhPjMJe3L6xiK6ttLa4s-qHay189JhiyvqtA1e1dQNfNQ0bzaPaNAa4sswy9Jxggm5ZSKi8A5tx8NfcNRpglZdCDyjcpxrsPUmDX1zQArnKbjW2md6ITW5QYQKyakizYY8/s1600/crispin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaMrIr4-XKhhPjMJe3L6xiK6ttLa4s-qHay189JhiyvqtA1e1dQNfNQ0bzaPaNAa4sswy9Jxggm5ZSKi8A5tx8NfcNRpglZdCDyjcpxrsPUmDX1zQArnKbjW2md6ITW5QYQKyakizYY8/s1600/crispin.jpg" /></a><br />
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ALC/VOL</div>
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6.5%</div>
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Calories</div>
<div class="ndRight">
200</div>
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Gluten Free</div>
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Carbohydrates</div>
<div class="ndRight">
12g</div>
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Serving: 650ml</div>
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This cider from Crispin Cider Company was the last of the treats that were given to me a month ago. It was purchased in the USA and is currently not available in Canada. I was intrigued by the title and the fact that honey was the unique flavour that was added to this cider. </div>
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Before I opened this cider I googled the product to find out more information about the cider and company. There was no need too as the bottle contained instructions on how to pour this drink.</div>
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"Smooth Operator-----Give a full bottoms-up tilt and swirl to disperse unfiltered apple-wine sediment evenly." So I did as it suggested and this is what happened.</div>
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As I poured the cider into the glass, you could see it was a cloudy cider and very little to no head formed. I let the cider sit for a minute to see what would happen to the colour....nothing changed it remained a cloudy dark yellow.</div>
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<strong>The Smell:</strong> On the pour there was no overpowering smell of apples or honey. After a few minutes the apple and honey aroma's started to appear but in subtle ways. There is no dominate aroma to this cider.</div>
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<strong>The Taste:</strong> My original thought was that maybe this would taste like mead (which by the way I love). With my first sip I thought it was really bland. No specific taste popped into mind. Which I thought was strange but then unique. With most ciders regardless if it is pear or apple there is always one dominate flavour. With this cider nothing. I didn't know what to think. So I continued to drink away and occupy my time with reading when it hit. At first it was the apple....not overpowering but subtle....but where was the honey. Well they say patience is a virtue and it is. There it was....a taste of honey (not quoting a song recorded by the Beatles). So now I stopped doing my tasks I was involved with to concentrate on the taste. This cider has hints of apple and honey but it isn't overpowering. You may get it on one sip and not the next. But this drink is smooth and creamy...a creamsicle for adults. The complexity is something to behold.</div>
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If you are interested in the dietary side of things or want more information on the company and other products they make you can visit their website at <a href="http://www.crispincider.com/">www.crispincider.com</a> </div>
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I can confirm this cider is gluten free in fact all the ciders this company produces is gluten free. So if you are ever in the USA, and you want a treat look for this cider.</div>
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<strong>Rating:</strong> I will give this cider a rating of 7.9 out of 10. I enjoyed it and I would have it again. I would like to try their other brands as I would like to see if they have a dominate flavour as the complexity of this cider just.....no to words to explain. This is a cider that if a group of people were drinking it all would have a different opinion on the taste. I can't see myself drinking this during the hot summer months but during those cold winter nights that is a different story. <br />
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Cheers!</div>
</div>Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-23125790044049765512012-04-26T19:53:00.001-04:002012-04-26T19:53:16.511-04:00DOC'S DRAFT HARD PEAR CIDER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFOqUJ1KSQYWsiAZZQa5GUDh_3yLvW5Zwn-3ikkGe792CKLC-19BJZrjRwBZS7ktCcCDd0zQ537sk6wGUugkqj8n0KXa1vhD_rSlbSBQMyG0Ucl4g1ysVa2IXp23fLZC9YNbSntl8Cvc/s1600/IMG_0324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFOqUJ1KSQYWsiAZZQa5GUDh_3yLvW5Zwn-3ikkGe792CKLC-19BJZrjRwBZS7ktCcCDd0zQ537sk6wGUugkqj8n0KXa1vhD_rSlbSBQMyG0Ucl4g1ysVa2IXp23fLZC9YNbSntl8Cvc/s200/IMG_0324.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDaOxtffHfUzpWevlp7BQy5jGe0KGaIPjbwz-fWME60eXljITGeJ0TLX0GDDFAllnEBjF7HAO40NkRnGURlx1cnSf3qn_ByNUGqEb9du5VB0TF6ByyuV0KLLeRW4u16QN6d0KSjQuljc/s1600/IMG_0323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDaOxtffHfUzpWevlp7BQy5jGe0KGaIPjbwz-fWME60eXljITGeJ0TLX0GDDFAllnEBjF7HAO40NkRnGURlx1cnSf3qn_ByNUGqEb9du5VB0TF6ByyuV0KLLeRW4u16QN6d0KSjQuljc/s200/IMG_0323.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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A relative of mine went to NYC for a few days and they brought me back this cider to try. Doc's Draft Hard Pear Cider is one of many products produced by Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery in the foothills of the Hudson Valley New York. <br />
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The size of bottle received was 22 Fl. Oz. The alcohol content is 5.5%. According to the company's website all cider's are crafted with 100% fruit and are gluten free. (Yes!!)<br />
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The Hard Pear cider is made from apples and pears. It poured clear with little carbonation. My picture may not do it justice but it is a very light looking cider. The taste was light...not overpowering in flavour but intense...if that makes sense. It a a nice crisp cider with a dry finish. Even the aroma was not overpowering nor weak...it was just right. It was a great treat to have and really enjoyable. Of course I like to try ciders without ice...but my friend Jo who is also a cider drinker decided to sample this cider over ice. Her conclusion was that having this cider over ice diluted the drink and it lost it's flavour. <br />
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For those who may visit this winery or happen upon the product in a store while in the USA other ciders available include Hard Apple and Raspberry Cider.<br />
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I have included the website below so if your travels take you to New York State, this maybe a place of interest for you.<br />
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<a href="http://wvwinery.com/cider/">http://wvwinery.com/cider/</a><br />
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I give this cider an 8.9 out of 10. <br />
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Cheers,Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4613158748160388593.post-813490396393374152012-04-23T19:53:00.000-04:002013-05-26T16:52:31.699-04:00Alexander Keith's Original CiderAlexander Keith's Original Cider <br />
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Bottles: 6x 335ml<br />
Price: $14.00<br />
5.5% Alcohol/Vol<br />
Sugar Content: 5<br />
Available at the LCBO<br />
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Can: 473 ml<br />
Price: $2.95<br />
5.5% Alcohol/Vol.<br />
Sugar Content: 6<br />
Available at the LCBO<br />
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I recently came across Alexander Keith's Original Cider at the LCBO. I thought I would give it a try as I see people and friends enjoying various Alexander Keith's beer. I had my choice of purchasing individual cans or a six pack of bottles. I chose to go with the can option as I wasn't too sure how I would like the taste. <br />
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When I opened the can, my first thought was wow what an overpowering smell of pear. As I began to pour the cider into the glass, the pear smell turned into a combination of pear and apple. Now I was intrigued. I decided to drink this cider without ice as I wanted to see what it tasted like without the influence of frozen water ( it does say on the can to serve over ice). The head disappeared quickly, not sure if the picture does it justice, but the colouring is a pale yellow.<br />
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With my first sip, I thought it had a salty taste to it. Drinking slowly, I was trying to figure out what flavour was the most predominate. I have to admit, the longer you drink this cider, the different flavours appear. There is a citrus bite to this cider as I was convinced I could taste grape fruit. I will be honest at the beginning I didn't think I would like this cider as I couldn't get a grip with the taste. As I continued drinking, the more I began to enjoy it as more of the apple and citrus flavours came through. <br />
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I decided to read the ingredients list to see which "fruits" were used to make this cider. Let's just say I was shocked. Cider, water, sucrose, malic acid, natural flavour and sulphites. Cider....??? Natural flavour....could you be more specific....did you use apples? I tried looking up the ingredients list on their official web page but nothing. I always try to confirm if the cider is gluten free. <br />
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Also, I discovered that the cider was made in the USA, by the parent company and imported to Ontario.<br />
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Synopsis: I will be honest and admit this is not one of my favourite ciders. I have had better...locally and abroad. Would I drink it again.....yes. Would it be my first choice....no. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide what they prefer and this reviewer prefers others. I will try this cider again but over ice and when I do, I will tell you what I thought.<br />
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I give this cider 5.2 out of 10.<br />
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****Side Note**** - A family member decided to try this cider as I had an extra can in the fridge. Being the typical guy he drank it straight from the can. I asked him his opinion and he indicated that it tasted like green apples. After 5 mins you could still smell the fruit aroma coming from the can. <br />
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Cheers!Lauriehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18137974446599531966noreply@blogger.com1