Friday Brew Review – Harpoon Cider
Rummaging through the Fourth of July liquid leftovers, I came across a couple bottles of Harpoon Cider. Even though my aversion to IPAs has led me to generally steer clear of Harpoon, my well-documented affinity for cider is mighty powerful. And so I’ve found myself yet again reliving a subverted childhood memory, pounding apple-drank and catching a buzz.
As they were left behind by some half-sober guest, the bottles of Harpoon Cider were a total mystery to me. Not knowing what I was getting myself into, I decided to inform my drinking with a trip to the Harpoon website. Here’s what they have to say:
In 2000, we added a second brewery in Windsor, Vermont to keep up with the demand. As a regional craft brewer, we gained interest and respect for cider, a drink with strong roots and history in New England. Harpoon’s cider is our contribution to the long heritage of cider made with fresh juice from locally grown apples.
Okay, pretty solid stuff. The brewery brews. Usually beer. Sometimes cider. Cider’s been around for a long time. Cider’s made from apples. Wunderbar!
What else do I need to know? Let’s drank!
Rocking the cap off of the bottle, I put the mouth under my nose and took a whiff. Honestly, from what I could tell Harpoon Cider smells exactly like apple juice. This fruity, somewhat sweet aroma is damn heavenly, especially since it threw me back into some childhood memories. I was ready to strap on the `ole proton pack and chase the cat around the house! Ah, memories.
Taking a swig, I was more than pleased with the cider’s texture and body. The beverage is light, with an ever-so-faint carbonation to it. I easily put away the first bottle, and had no trouble popping into the second. I think that this might be an ideal beverage for early autumn drinking sessions – clad in a hooded sweatshirt, a hard cider easily lubricating the conversation and warming my face against the brisk breeze. Between a few friends, I think a case could disappear rather quickly.
In terms of taste, Harpoon Cider is enjoyable. As with the bouquet, I was taken aback by much the potable reminded me of straight-up apple juice. After all, I’m used to ciders providing some bitter or caustic notes. However, once I got over the surprise I found myself relishing the sweetness and quiet-tartness of each and every sip. This is no brew of doom and gloom. In fact, the lightness and fruitiness make me want to pair the drink with breakfast foods (perhaps crepes?). Let me know if you’ve been so bold!
If you’re looking for a proper cider, I’d suggest you look elsewhere. But if you can leave expectations at the door, I’d strongly recommend you give Harpoon Cider a chance. It may be more juice than cider, but I was more satisfied than not.
B+