JAMES Squire is best known for a range of outstanding beers but now they have recognized the rapid growth in the cider market and have entered the fray.
I know this column is all about beer reviews but when you get someone like James Squire venturing into the "unknown" , I thought a change is as good as ...
They have released Orchard Crush Apple Cider, and like their beers, they have delivered a quality drop. It has a golden cloudy appearance (as you might expect from a properly fermented cider) with a loose white head. The aroma is distinctly apple (crisp green apples at that) and that carried through to the flavour. You cant help but think youre drinking fresh Granny Smith apples and while the cloudy appearance might suggest that this is a heavy cider, it couldnt be further from the truth. It is crisp and clean across the palate and very refreshing with just a hint of sweetness. It doesnt sit heavily in the gut despite being 4.8 percent nor does it become too sickly after a few like some of the other commercial brands.
Its a great summer drink with excellent sessionability and is a real thirst quencher.
If you like your cider to taste like the fruit it is made from and not a concocted beverage, Orchard Crush is hard not to love.
MY TIP
Serve this nice and cold (ice optional). Its a great party drop or anytime you have a big thirst. At around $6 per 500ml bottle it is in the premium cider market and is available through the major retail chains.