On Tap

How Do You Like These Apples?

by Abigail Smathers

a Look at the popuLarity of hard ciders and where you can find them LocaLLy

With fall fast approaching, so will the leaves change color, the air become crisp, and taverns begin peddling their seasonal drinks. Imported wines and craft beers are the drink of choice for many, but autumn brings a new contender to the table—one that’s often overlooked.

Though their popularity is quickly growing, hard ciders still get the short end of the stick when it comes to adult beverages, and it’s not completely without cause. Let’s face it: there are plenty of tough contenders on every drink menu out there, but hard ciders shouldn’t be counted out so quickly! Their rich history, intricate fermentation process, and complex range of flavors (not to mention their relatively low alcohol content) make them more than worthy of the space in your glass.

Going back as far as the Roman Era, people have been enjoying hard cider for recreation, using the drink as a form of currency, and perfecting the science of its fermentation. By the pilgrim era, apple seeds would find themselves journeying to the New World, where apple culture would take its roots. As the industrial revolution rolled around, though, cider’s grip on the public began to wane.

That is, until recent years, when “craft beverages” and microbrewing grew to be (or rather, returned to being) the hip thing to do. Ironically enough, the reintroduction of artisanal beer and small-batch spirits is what would bring hard ciders back into the limelight. Unlike beer, cider is fermented rather than brewed, which gives it the great acidity and tannin that wine is famous for. Unlike wine, however, ciders can pair well with a variety of cuisines such as Thai and Japanese food, as well as sulfuric vegetables like asparagus, Brussel sprouts, and kale. Cider has its own special place amongst foodies and casual drinkers but can also be just as complex and specialized as import wines and craft beers.

Ciders can be dry or sweet, can hail from different growing regions, and can be made from a wide spectrum of fruits. Some varieties of heirloom apple, grown specifically for fermentation, can take up to five years to bear any fruit! No two ciders are the same, and you’ll find that the drink can offer just as much range and intricacy as fine wine.

Lake Norman has its own selection of local breweries and restaurants who pour a great glass of cider, especially during the months of September, October, and November. Hoptown Brewing in Mooresville carries a fantastic selection of seasonal drinks from Botanist & Barrel, while Lost Worlds Brewing in Cornelius hosts a fine range of ciders year-round. King Canary Brewing Co. in Mooresville not only serves when the season’s ripe, but hold an Oktoberfest that spotlights limited-release drinks!

This fall, do yourself a favor and try swapping out your beer or wine for a locally-crafted cider. Johnny Appleseed would be proud.