I wasn't much of a beer drinker, until the craft breweries took over and created such amazing flavors that I couldn't help but be drawn to them. And while I love a deep stout with a rich chocolate overtone or a light pale ale, I found myself drawn over and over to the fruity beers. I have always been a fan of fruit, so this wasn't a huge surprise.
And then finally it occurred to me that I should skip the middle man (the grains) and go straight for the fruit: hard cider. And I figured that out just in time, because hard cider too is having a moment. Artisans are finally getting their due, and the world of hard cider has exploded from just a couple of brands on most store shelves to a wide variety of labels, flavors, styles, and creativity.
The editors of Cidercraft Magazine have put together the ultimate guide to this new hard cider world. Out tomorrow, Tasting Cider is a handbook to this tasty new realm. With gorgeous photographs, a history of cider in America, a glossary, and even recipes for cider cocktails as well as entrees and desserts using cider (Cider Braised Chicken? Woodchuck Cider Pulled Pork? Hard Apple Cider Crisp? Yes, please!), this cider guide is perfect for cider drinkers wanting to learn more about their favorite beverage.
But even better than all that, if that's possible, is the in-depth introduction to cider types and cider makers from across the United States. Barrel-aged ciders, botanical and spiced ciders, orchard-based varieties, hopped ciders, single-varietal ciders, perry, and more--each type of cider gets its time in the spotlight. And while beginners like me can get a road map to many flavorful treats, even experienced cider drinkers can find something in here to learn and to prompt a road trip to a local cider maker, or at least to a local liquor store.
Anyone interested in cider--drinking it, cooking with it, making cider cocktails, or even learning to make it--can find plenty of information and inspiration in Tasting Cider. It's a phenomenal collection of knowledge for cider drinkers of any level or preference, and would make a beautiful gift as well. Cider drinkers need a guide just like this one. I know I did.
Galleys for Tasting Cider were provided by Storey Publishing through NetGalley.com, with many thanks.