I’m not saying my opinions matter but this once they really do.
I love cider, I will take cider over beer any day. It’s sweet and reminds me of fall. Now, I’m not a huge fan of all ciders but I will in order for my favorite to my least favorite tell you which is the best, in terms of taste and how smooth it does down.
Downeast Cider – Original Blend
Downeast is my all-time favorite. It is so good and I am absolutely obsessed with it. Downeast is both sweet and crisp, every sip I get transported into a fall paradise. 5 fresh apples go into every can of Downeast! All of their cider is unfiltered, so you absolutely must shake the can! But more importantly, two Bates alums founded Downeast and Bobcats must support one another! It’s also on tap at the Den for about $3.50 a glass!
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: Boston, MA
Stella Artois Cidre
Now if Downeast weren’t on this ranking, Stella would 100% be number one. This cidre is smooth (it’s smoother than a freshly shaven leg, ladies you know what I’m talking about!). It has crisp and fruity notes, and perfect all year around!
ABV: 4.5%
Origin: Belgium
Angry Orchard – Crisp Apple
This is everyone’s go-to cider and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s the most quintessential cider out there. Everyone knows about it and has heard great things. It’s exactly what you think a hard cider should taste like. I’m all about it, it’s crisp and sweet and taste like a bite out of an apple.
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Walden, NY
Citizens Cider – Unified Press
This gluten-free cider has a rich and off-dry, crisp taste. It’s very refreshing and perfect on a fall day. This flavor is available all year long!
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Middlebury, VT
Strongbow – Golden Apple
I’m just going, to be honest with you all straight off the bat and I know this is an unpopular opinion BUT Strongbow just isn’t that good. It’s the cider you drink when you are already drunk and just need to keep drinking because you are going to see your crush later that night. I’m not saying if a Strongbow is offered to me I will not, not drink it but if I’m unwinding from a hard day I would opt not to have one.
ABV: 4.5%
Origin: England