Blackthorn Fermented Cider

This cider was found at the local store and we decided to try an English cider this week. Imported from the West Country of Britain, the cider promises a distinctive crisp yet dry taste. This particular variety would offer an interesting taste, as it is made from fermented apple juice and carbonated water.

Color:
Bailey thought quite highly of the color, which was a bright golden color, with no particles floating around. She also enjoyed the crisp color it offered. Hawke was intrigued by the clear coloration, the golden color is not one that is normally seen in ciders, especially this clear. Suggesting that it has been filtered several times. Bailey: 4/5 Hawke: 5/5

Smell:
Bailey detected more of an alcohol smell rather than apples in the cider. Suggesting a lack of apple flavor in the future. However she noted that the smell wasn't overpowering.  Hawke as well noted a white wine smell, and a distinct lack of apple scent. However, it did have a little sweetness added to it. What he expected coming from the type of bottle, as the bottle is more reminiscent of a wine bottle rather than a cider bottle. Bailey: 2/5 Hawke: 3/5

Taste / Complexity:
Bailey tasted a sweet and sour flavor with little apple taste, and a slight alcohol finish. Which while not impressive, was not bad either. Hawke noted a lack of apple flavor, but otherwise not a harsh taste as with other ciders previously experienced. Bailey: 3/5 Hawke: 3/5

Aftertaste:
Bailey felt a slight sweetness, doesn't last very long. She had really hoped for a longer after taste with this cider. Hawke got a very quick apple flavor, does not linger, not bad, but could be better, surprisingly not bitter after taste. Bailey: 2/5  Hawke: 2/5

Price:
$8-10 Bailey felt that the cider is very good for the price, as it is a middle of the road cider, that isn't great but it is not terrible. Hawke would be considered a starting cider, as it is not overpowering in its flavor, yet is also very sweet compared to some European ciders that have previously sampled. Bailey: 4/5 Hawke: 4/5

Overall:
If you are new to ciders, this one would be a great place to start. It isn't too sweet or bitter, and would give your pallet room to grow.

Bailey gave this a 16/25 or a yellow apple.

 Hawke gave this cider a 17/25 or a yellow apple.