Although cider has been on the rise in the alcoholic beverage world, there are still plenty of misunderstandings about it, and more specifically, its use in other mixed beverages. Writer Jeanette Hurt at TalesOfTheCocktail.com goes on to explain just how ciders can, and should, be used in different cocktails.
According to Mattie Beason,owner of Black Twig Cider House, in Durham, NC, “The general public has this expectation that cider is a one-trick pony — it’s made out of apples and sweet almost like a wine cooler — and it’s far from that.” It’s a common misconception that ciders are a kind of beer when that couldn’t be further from the truth. Ciders are made from fruit, while beers are made from grains. This has led to the view that ciders don’t belong in cocktails. But these nifty cocktails taste delicious with a crisp or sweet cider!
The important thing to look for when using ciders in cocktails is the cider you’re using. Not all ciders are created equal, as many will have varying levels of tannins and acidity levels. A good cocktail to start with is the “Stone Fence” which is simply 2oz of spirit with 12-14oz of hard cider. The drink goes all the way back to the Revolutionary War!
With ciders coming back into the fold in the cocktail industry, it’s important to focus on the barware that is best used for the drinks. With every drink calling for different types of spirits, ciders, and amounts, it is paramount to make sure each glass properly represents each drink. Try to stay ahead of the curve and see what cocktails your bartenders recommend.
Check out some other incredible cider cocktails at https://talesofthecocktail.com/products/incorporating-cider-your-cocktails
– S. Jones
PHOTO: Black Twig
