For centuries, cider held a cherished place in American life, a staple far predating the nation’s founding. Its story is intricately woven into the fabric of early American history, serving as a vital beverage for Indigenous tribes and European settlers alike. Two hundred years ago, it was the “beverage of choice” for many, an ingenious method to “preserve plentiful apple harvests” and transmute them into something not merely palatable but often “safer than water” in an age without modern sanitation.
However, the tides of time, propelled by the sweeping demographic shifts of the Industrial Revolution, witnessed a significant decline. As populations migrated “from farms to cities,” domestic beer production ascended, culminating in the devastating blow of Prohibition, which collectively “left the American cider industry in shambles.” Yet, a remarkable transformation is underway across the nation.
Today, “thousands of producers” across “all 50 states” are engaged in a spirited endeavor to “reinvent cider,” ushering in its return as a “beloved beverage” for a new generation. This burgeoning category, once perceived as a “niche or novelty beverage,” has now “quickly ripened into an undeniably popular category,” becoming a ubiquitous presence in “shop coolers and on store shelves across the U.S.
Far from cooling off, unlike some “once-hot segments like craft beer and hard seltzer,” cider sales continue their ascent. Nielsen sales data, verified by the American Cider Association for January 2024, reveals a compelling narrative: “Regional brands were up 5.8% and sales of canned ciders were up 7% year-on-year,” signaling robust growth and a promising future for this revitalized drink.
In this vibrant resurgence, a question naturally arises: what truly defines the “best” in this evolving landscape of hard cider? The very notion of “best” carries a rich linguistic lineage, tracing its roots back through Middle English to Old English “betst” and Proto-Germanic “*batistaz,” embodying the superlative form of “good.
As an adjective, “best” signifies the most superior or most favorable, as in the assertion that “mushrooms are the best pizza toppings.” Its application extends to denoting the majority, such as when “Unpacking took the best part of a week.” The colloquial, even “nonstandard” or “humorous” inflections like “bester” and “bestest,” as humorously employed in Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games” with “I say you the bestest,” underscore their flexible and pervasive nature in modern language.
Product on Amazon: CIDER Women’s Summer Cocktail Dress – Tube Ruched Ruffle Mini Dress: White, S
Brand: CIDER
Binding: Apparel Product Group: Apparel
Price: 34.99 USD
Rating: 4.2 Total reviews: 857
Shopping on Amazon >>
Today, these earlier iterations face stiff competition from “drier, more refreshing options that don’t overwhelm the palate.” This evolution means consumers can now discover a “crisp cider with lively, tight carbonation and a subtle ginger spiciness,” or find an “affordable” alternative to sparkling wine that is “dry, fruit-forward,” and utterly delightful for any occasion.
In determining the qualities of a superior cider, observing consumer behavior offers a telling insight into collective preference. As the discerning palate seeks more refined experiences, the ciders that vanish “the fastest” at social gatherings—and those personally most enjoyed—consistently exhibit a distinctive set of attributes.
These preferred characteristics include “lively apple and fruit aromas,” a “vibrant bubbles” presence, and crucially, a “dry finish that leaves you wanting another sip.” These elements combine to create a truly crushable and memorable drinking experience, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the category.
With these benchmarks firmly in mind, a recent comprehensive tasting sought to identify the “best-tasting hard cider for fall” among “10 enticing-looking varieties from a range of producers.” This exploration aimed to provide a candid assessment, ranking each cider from the least preferred to the definitive top pick, offering a valuable guide for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Our journey began with Stella Artois Cidre, a product from the globally renowned brewery, clocking in at a modest “4.5% ABV” and priced at “$3.59” for a “12-ounce bottle.” Its appearance immediately set it apart, packaged in a clear glass bottle that revealed a color strikingly similar to its parent company’s famous light lager.
This coloring, coupled with a “relatively simple label,” allowed it to subtly “stand out on the shelf amid some of the more assertive cans that dominate the market.” Upon pouring, an initial burst of “bubbles jump up and activate before largely disappearing,” yet a “soft fizz still lingers and dances up through the glass,” offering a fleeting visual effervescence.
The olfactory experience, however, presented an immediate paradox. The “first sniff brings an immediate combination of cotton candy, hard candy, and even a strange hint of lager yeast,” an aroma so unexpected it initially seemed like “my brain playing a trick on me.” This peculiar “beer-like quality,” unfortunately, “muddies things a bit” on the palate, despite a “sugary sweet flavor profile where the 16 grams of added sugar become more apparent.”
While an underlying acidity attempts to “cut through this on the finish,” lending a marginal freshness compared to typical “macro cider,” the persistent “strange aromas and flavors that seem to jump out of nowhere” proved difficult to overlook. This cider, regrettably, evokes an image akin to a “cider at a dive bar where the server decides to pour into the same unwashed glass you just used for a beer,” failing to deliver the “nuanced flavors customers are looking for in a cider.”
Following the international offering, Angry Orchard Crisp Apple, a product of Boston Beer, the creators of the iconic Sam Adams Boston Lager, presented a more familiar profile. This cider, at “5% ABV” and similarly priced at “$3.59 for a 12-ounce bottle,” boldly advertises “two apples in every bottle” directly on its label, setting clear expectations for its fruit-forwardness.
Visually, this cider displayed a “slightly richer shade of toasted gold when poured into a glass,” suggesting a greater depth of character than its predecessor. Notably, it maintained a composed demeanor, failing to “appear overly foamy or create too much of a head,” presenting a clean and inviting look.
The initial aroma was undeniably “traditional” and “straightforward,” dominated unequivocally by “the scent of freshly pressed apples,” a classic hallmark of the category. On the palate, it “immediately covers the tongue with a ripe, almost candy apple-like flavor profile,” a sweetness that undeniably “inches towards some of the more cloying brands of yesteryear.”
While a “touch of acidity lends it some freshness,” this quality is somewhat “muddled during the sugary finish,” preventing a truly clean resolution. It is important to note that this offering is “not offensively sweet,” yet its primary drawback lies in its lack of complexity, positioning it as a decidedly “middle of the road” option for those seeking a universally agreeable, unchallenging cider.
From the vibrant city of Berlin, Germany, Brlo Rosé Cider emerged as a distinct entrant, characterized by its “pink” hue and “4.5% ABV.” Its label clearly stated its composition of “rhubarb, pomegranate, and apple wine”—the German equivalent for cider—and proudly declared “no other additives,” underscoring a commitment to purity.
Priced at “$3.99 for a 12-ounce bottle,” Brlo adopted a “modern, minimalist approach to its labeling,” which, through its “simplicity,” remained “eye-catching.” The transparency of the “clear bottle” offered a direct preview of the beverage within: “A rosy pink beverage that is similar in hue to sparkling rosé wine.”
However, a notable divergence from its grape-based counterpart was observed; this cider “never develops any lingering mousse or dancing bubbles within the glass,” presenting a flatter visual profile. On the nose, a “candy-like aroma” was discernible, more akin to “fruit salad than fresh orchard fruit,” though it was subtle, failing to “leap into your nostrils” with vigor.
Despite not being “cloyingly sweet,” the inaugural sip delivered a potent “fruity sweetness that veers on soda-like,” a bold, almost assertive introduction. The carbonation further emphasized this divergence, characterized by “big, bold bubbles that further distance it from the fine pinpoint fizz you can find in some ciders,” choosing to “tackle the tongue instead of tickling it.” Yet, in its own fashion, it remained “vaguely bright and refreshing,” deftly “avoid[ing] the cloying flabbiness of many mass-produced ciders.”
Its availability for “single purchase” offered a welcome flexibility, allowing consumers to explore without committing to a full “six-pack.” For an import, its price point was deemed quite reasonable, suggesting an ideal pairing “along with food, where its full body and fruity sweetness could be tempered a bit.
Product on Amazon: Keto ACV Gummies Advanced, with Apple Cider Keto Supplements, Gluten-Free, Apple Flavor Formula for Men & Women, Made in USA The Paper [VHS (2)
Brand: Desi Buy
Binding: VHS Tape Product Group: DVD
Price: 14.95 USD
Rating: 4.5 Total reviews: 992
Shopping on Amazon >>
Vermont’s contribution, Stowe High & Dry Cider, presented itself as a substantial option, bottled in a generous “19.2-ounce can” and boasting a robust “6.5% ABV.” Despite its larger format and higher alcohol content, it remained affordably priced at “$4.09,” hinting at a potential for sharing or extended enjoyment.
In the glass, this cider revealed a “vividly bright yellow gold,” accompanied by an abundance of “fine bubbles” that ascended gracefully. Its most striking visual attribute was its “stark clarity,” reminiscent of “a glass of crisp white wine,” immediately conveying a sense of purity and refinement.
The aromatic profile was commendably “pleasingly simple,” dominated by notes of “orchard fruit aromas and dried apple,” a clean and straightforward expression that was neither “overpowering or too forceful from the glass.” On the palate, it stood out unequivocally as “far and away the driest and most crisp of the ciders I tasted.”
The flavor translated into “a bite of an underripe apple with the skin on,” followed by a “crisp finish that even had some intriguing minerality to it.” This experience led to a compelling comparison, feeling “almost like I was sipping on a crisp sauvignon blanc,” devoid of “even a hint of sweetness,” marking it as a truly dry offering.
While its refreshing quality was appreciated “partway through a tasting gauntlet,” prolonged sips revealed a slight longing for more complexity, leaving “my palate wanting a little more.” Nevertheless, its commendable ability to “mask the relatively high booziness” earned it significant recognition for its skillful balance and restraint.
From the Lone Star State, Austin Eastciders Original Dry Cider, acquired in a “16-ounce can for $3.99,” offered a sessionable “5% ABV” and proudly declared “no artificial sweeteners,” aligning with a growing consumer preference for natural ingredients. The brand’s market presence extends to “smaller format cans” and “mixed flavor variety packs,” enhancing its accessibility in grocery stores.
Visually, this Texan cider poured into the glass as a “very pale shade of straw yellow,” mirroring the delicate appearance of “a glass of prosecco or champagne.” A notable characteristic was the development of “a ring of fine foam around the sides of the glass that lingered for a while,” indicating a gentle yet persistent carbonation.
The aromatic journey was subtle; the “nose didn’t offer up too many hints outside of fruity sliced apple that had to be pulled up and out of the glass,” requiring a more deliberate engagement. On the palate, its primary strength lies in its “easy-drinking and refreshing” quality, making it approachable and quaffable.
However, after several sips, a desire for a richer “flavor profile to work with” emerged, suggesting a slight understatedness. While it delivered a “pleasingly crisp finish” and was commendably “miles away from the syrupy sweetness that would drive me away,” a lingering thought was to “try one of the brand’s different flavored options to get a little more excitement out of it,” hinting at a solid base awaiting further flavor exploration.
Product on Amazon: Liokareas Apple Cider Glaze – Made in Greece – Organic – NonGMO – 8.45oz – Fruity & Sweet – Deep Sense of Apple – Vegan –
Brand: Liokareas
Binding: Product Group: Grocery
Price: 8.99 USD
Rating: 3.3 Total reviews: 33
Item Form: Cream
Liquid Volume: 250 Milliliters
Number of Items: 1
Unit Count: 8.45 Fluid Ounces
Shopping on Amazon >>
Downeast Original Blend, a striking departure from its predecessors, was sourced at an inviting “$2.99” for a “12-ounce can,” offering a “5.1% ABV.” This producer stands out for its extensive range, encompassing “a variety of year-round core and seasonal flavors,” alongside convenient “12-packs that are perfect for stocking up in bulk,” catering to diverse consumer needs.
A visually distinctive feature of Downeast is its unfiltered nature, a characteristic that immediately sets it apart on the list. When poured, it presented as a “bright, hazy pale orange,” strikingly resembling “a mimosa” if observed casually, a testament to its unique aesthetic and inviting appearance.
The aromatic profile was profoundly evocative, with the “soft aroma of crushed apple skins” instantly conjuring the sensory memory “of being underneath a tree on a picking excursion and taking in the unmistakable whiff of smashed orchard fruit.” This authenticity carried through to the palate with delightful precision.
Upon sipping, the initial impression was of an exceptionally “silky a texture” that gracefully enveloped the tongue before the carbonation provided a lively counterpoint, effectively “cut[ting] some of the ripe apple sweetness.” The experience was one of effortless drinkability and playful refreshment, akin to “the kind of beverage you could sip on at brunch.
This cider, in its delightful simplicity and approachable nature, truly felt like “a bit of a gateway cider for drinkers who might be wary of the category overall,” offering an inviting entry point into the world of hard ciders and demonstrating its broad appeal.
From Burlington, Vermont, Citizen Cider Unified Press entered the tasting with a “16-ounce can” priced at “$3.99,” positioning itself as a “relatively sessionable 5.2% ABV,” ideal for casual enjoyment. Its presentation in the glass was among the most pristine.
It poured as “one of the lightest and vividly clear ciders of the group as a pale straw color,” exhibiting a remarkable clarity. Abundant “fine bubbles that danced through the glass after pouring” contributed to its lively and inviting visual appeal, promising effervescence that delights the eye.
The aromatic profile was singularly “pleasing,” artfully combining the nuances of “stewed apples with freshly smashed fruit,” creating a complex yet harmonious nose. This fruitiness translated directly and prominently “upfront on the palate” with the very “first sip.”
Here, “hints of baking spice cut through a sweetness that tasted like biting into a ripe apple,” crafting a flavor that was both familiar and intriguing. Crucially, this cider was emphatically “not a cloying cider,” but rather expertly “managed to meld the crisp finish with a medium-bodied fruitiness” that was both “pleasing and easy to drink.”
While it might “lack[] in complexity” when compared to some more intricate offerings, its “approachability” stands as a significant virtue, a “difficult line to walk” successfully. Its inherent “flavor elements” made it feel “the most like a fall beverage,” making it an ideal choice for those seeking seasonal resonance, potentially making it “exactly what drinkers are looking for in the end.
The tasting journey then crossed the Atlantic to the Brittany region of France with Aval Gold French Cider, acquired as part of a “four-pack that cost $10.49” from a local Whole Foods. This international representative weighed in at a solid “6% ABV,” signaling a more substantial body.
True to its ancestral origins, this French cider presented a “rich amber-gold in the glass,” immediately distinguishable from its American counterparts. Upon pouring, it produced “a quickly dissipating head of big bubbles,” a fleeting effervescence that soon gave way to “a few trails of fine bubbles eventually started to form in the glass,” demonstrating a nuanced carbonation that adds to its appeal.
The aromatic complexity of Aval Gold was immediately apparent, encapsulating “many of the traditional characteristics of Brittany, with a complex and earthy nose that holds hints of barnyard and piles of dried leaves in the fall.” This evocative scent promised a departure from the purely fruit-forward profiles, inviting deeper contemplation.
The first sip was a revelation, immediately compelling one to “dive back in for another,” a testament to its intricate balance. “Tart and juicy orchard fruit flavors” harmonized seamlessly “over fine carbonation and a crisp finish,” creating a multi-layered sensory experience that lingers pleasantly.
This cider is an exemplary choice for “anyone who has an interest in cider or has explored the unique styles made around the world,” offering a truly enriching “field trip in a glass.” Despite its “relatively high alcohol content,” its inherent drinkability and refreshing quality were immensely impressive, confirming its standing as a sophisticated and immensely enjoyable offering.
Approaching the pinnacle of the tasting was Wölffer Dry Rosé Cider, a New York-made offering purchased as a “single 12-ounce bottle for $5.49.” It’s “6.9% ABV,” which marked it as one of the more potent selections on the list, yet it remained remarkably balanced and “not overly boozy.” Its availability also extends to “four-packs and 750-milliliter bottles,” catering to various consumption occasions.
The visual allure of this cider was undeniable even before pouring; its “clear glass bottle makes it easy to see this cider looks exactly like a Provence-style rosé wine.” Once decanted, its “pale pink color becomes lighter—and somehow even more alluring—once it’s in the glass,” captivating the eye with its delicate hue and elegant presentation.
Intriguingly, the aromatic profile echoed its vinous inspiration, with “even the nose on this has some elements of southern French rosé,” presenting “plenty of stone fruit and soft floral notes easily rising up from the glass,” a truly sophisticated bouquet. The blind tasting experience would undoubtedly lead one to conclude it was “a sparkling rosé based on my first sip,” a testament to its uncanny resemblance.
The carbonation was “impressively fine,” delivering a “soothing on the tongue” sensation, contributing to its elegance. “Subtle orchard fruit flavors create a complex yet refreshingly crisp flavor profile,” demonstrating a mastery of blending and balance. Although “riper fruit comes through on the finish,” it remains decidedly “dry,” precisely as “advertised.”
This exquisite cider could effortlessly “be a swap in at dinner for a bottle of French bubbly,” underscoring its versatility and high quality. Its clear suitability for a relaxing “beach day” further highlights its refreshingly elegant and adaptable character, cementing its status as a true standout in the category.
The ultimate discovery in this extensive tasting was the Shacksbury Classic Dry Cider, confidently branding itself as “the gold standard for New England dry cider” directly on its “19.2-ounce can,” acquired for “$3.99” from a local Whole Foods. It’s “sessionable 5.2% ABV,” promising easy drinking without compromising on depth.
Despite its utilitarian can packaging, the cider unveiled a “beautiful golden yellow in the glass,” a vibrant hue that exuded warmth and quality. “Plenty of tiny bubbles of carbonation dancing to the surface” further enhanced its visual appeal, promising a lively effervescence that would delight the palate with every sip.
The aromatic introduction was nothing short of captivating; “If I were blindfolded during this tasting, I would be convinced I was about to sip a chardonnay based on the aroma.” This “deeply pleasing fruity fragrance pulls you in for a sip,” an irresistible invitation to explore its myriad complexities.
The initial taste delivered “super fine carbonation,” a delicate touch that hits the tongue, preparing the palate for the layers of flavor. Bright golden apple and crisp fruit flavors dance around with incredible complexity,” showcasing a sophisticated interplay that speaks to meticulous craftsmanship and a thoughtful blending process.
This intricate flavor tapestry culminates in “a clean, crisp, refreshing finish,” leaving a lasting impression of purity and balance. The inherent enjoyment of this cider was so profound that it led to “sneaking extra sips” during the rigorous tasting process, a clear indication of its exceptional quality and inherent drinkability.
Shacksbury Classic Dry Cider encapsulates every desirable attribute: “At 5.2%, it’s as drinkable and sessionable as advertised,” offering a harmonious balance for prolonged enjoyment. It masterfully “shares some of the best qualities of a well-made wine,” elevating the cider experience to a new echelon of sophistication and sensory pleasure.
It is an undeniable contender for leading any future social gathering, poised to “probably top my list for what I serve at my next party.” Indeed, discerning hosts would be “wise to offer it, too,” as it exemplifies the pinnacle of hard cider excellence in the burgeoning American market, setting a new benchmark for quality.
The journey through these varied and compelling ciders underscores a pivotal moment in American beverage culture. The industry, having navigated a prolonged “long hiatus,” is now unequivocally “on the rise once more,” powered by the ingenuity of “thousands of producers in all 50 states” committed to “reinvent[ing] cider” and exploring its “full scope of expressions.”
Product on Amazon: Wolffer Rose Hard Cider, 4-pk, 12 fl oz
Brand: WOLFFER ESTATE
Binding: Unknown Binding Product Group: Wine
Price: 15.99 USD
Rating: 4.8 Total reviews: 116
Item Weight: 3 Pounds
Liquid Volume: 12 Fluid Ounces
Diet Type: Gluten Free
Body Description: Rose
Shopping on Amazon >>
This renaissance is marked by a dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. While “some producers prefer to stick to traditional methods and styles,” others are boldly “drawing inspiration from other categories like beer, wine, or even cocktails,” pushing the boundaries of flavor and form in exciting new directions.
What unites these diverse endeavors is a shared mission: “they’re helping accelerate cider’s return as a beloved beverage.” The definition of “best” in this context is not static; it is a fluid concept, continually refined by consumer preferences, evolving production techniques, and the boundless creativity of those dedicated to the apple.
From the nuanced complexity of French imports to the pioneering spirit of American craft, the options are richer and more diverse than ever. The pursuit of the “best” cider is not merely a matter of taste; it is an exploration of cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and the evolving palate of a nation re-embracing a truly timeless drink. The golden age of American cider is not just on the horizon; it is here, ripe for discovery, sip by delightful sip.
