How Do You Like Them Apples?

This week we are talking about a new, but not so new product, that is taking the brew crafting world by storm. Apple Cider. But, not just any Cider, Hard Cider. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the new cider from Riverdale Orchard & Cidery.

Much like the craft beer revolution, craft hard cideries are on the rise throughout the country and not showing signs of slowing down, and, Prince Edward Island is lucky enough to have one of our own! Riverdale Orchard recently celebrated their grand opening after years of hard work and dedication AND is one of our favourite stops on our “Out of This Swirled Tour” with HOP|SIP|SWIRL TASTING TOURS.

While visiting from Scotland several times, Alex and Anne fell in love with Prince Edward Island and naturally made the move. While waiting patiently for their orchard to grow, they spent their time educating themselves to be the very best producers of Hard Cider Prince Edward Island has seen.

The first season at Riverdale Orchards has produced a light and crisp craft cider. 2 Scots 3 Apples is a well-balanced blend of a familiar flavour. Apples. The process of the fruit remains simple, extract the natural juices from 3 apples, hence the name, ferment, a little of this, a little of that and you got yourself a great recipe for some tasty hard cider. I’m sure the 2 Scots, Alex and Anne would agree.

The question is, when should you drink it? Simple. Anytime, really. Picture this, you are getting ready to throw your Lobster on the BBQ. Your PEI potatoe salad is chilling out in the fridge. Your guests are due to arrive any minute. You open the fridge and grab an ice cold 2 Scots 3 Apples Hard Cider. Refreshing, light, and easy to drink. You should be finished with it and ready for another when you offer your friends one upon arrival. Trust me, they WILL thank you. If any of you or your guests have a gluten sensitivity, hard cider is gluten-free, which makes for a great option over craft beer.

When poured, 2 Scots 3 Apples hard cider is clear with a bright-white head that quickly dissipates. The smell is reminiscent of green apples, citrus and a slight aroma of baker’s yeast.  It doesn’t have big bold dominant flavours. It doesn’t try to take over your palate. It’s crisp and clean. It plays well with others, and let’s face it, we all should really get along.

Alex and Anne sipping the last 4 years of hard work and dedication with HOP|SIP|SWIRL TASTING TOURS.

 

I had a chance to chat with proprietors Alex and Anne and asked them a few VERY personal questions. Here’s what they had to say.

Me:

What is one of your own favourite beverages you produce? Why?

Anne:

2 Scots 3 Apples, it’s light refreshing, and packed full of flavour. It’s slightly carbonated with no added sulphates or yeasts.  Nature was left to it’s own devices.

Me:

When you are drinking your 2 Scots 3 Apples, what food do you pair it with?

Anne:

As the Cider is so refreshing we drink it on its own, mainly. However, it pairs really well with all food, savoury, spicy, sweet items, snack items. Our homemade Curry is one of our favourite dishes to pair it with.

Me:

Where is the absolute best place you enjoy 2 Scots 3 Apples?

Alex:

Sitting on our deck overlooking the rolling hills and catching the breeze.

Me:

What music are you listening to when you are drinking 2 Scots 3 Apples, while eating your authentic homemade Curry & homemade Naan bread on your back deck?

Alex:

Simon and Garfunkel, of course!

Me: 

Since you have a strong belief in supporting local businesses, what Prince Edward Island produced craft beverage are you drinking when you are not drinking your own?

Anne:       

Simple, Strawberry Chardonnay from Matos Winery in Saint Catherines.

Slàinte Anne & Alex!

 

Now you are ready to try 2 Scots 3 Apples. Reserve your seat on HOP|SIP|SWIRL tour to be a part of the ultimate and unique tasting experience on Prince Edward Island. Cheers!