New Farnum Hill Summer Cider
Sparkling, clear, golden. Blended for potent fruit and acid, subdued tannins, somehow it offers a surprising and delightful suggestion of whisky sours with nothing like the alcoholic penalty.
Alcohol content 7.5% by volume. 750 ml. bottle,
mushroom cork closure (no corkscrew needed).
Nice to get fun and information in the same bottle, yes? The fun is in the flavor, a little sweeter and more accessible than our regular styles, with keen acid and tons of fruit, plus a clean, food-enhancing finish. The information, familiar all over the cider-drinking world but generally forgotten here in the States, is that traditional fermented ciders make ideal
hot-weather companions. Don't chill Summer Cider (or any FH bottle) very far down, you'll lose contact with its fullest flavor.
Summer Cider will gladden relaxed summer occasions. It agreeably floats the odd ice cube, berry or citrus slice, maybe even a sprig of mint or other herb, if you like that kind of thing. Grilled, saute'ed, salad- or pasta-based summer dishes gain extra savor from its company. Delicately-flavored seafoods flourish alongside its clean, optimistic finish. (Think twice, though, about acidic red sauces -- reactions have been mixed).
At the dessert stage, people who make fruit ices and fruit salads might like to throw in some cider ... and pour some alongside. With tarts, cakes, shortbread, trifle, and of course crepes, FHSC could be fun. On the heavy, rich side of the dessert range, the Rocky Road ice cream or chocolate mousse, you're on your own: Summer Cider might be a charming lift, might be a painful contrast, according to palate. See what you like (or don't like), write if you have time. Summer time is playtime!