Ciders are a classic fall weather choice. They’re made from fruit that’s perfectly in season – pears and apples mostly – and are perfect to drink right now. While cider is typically the provenance of beer producers and drinkers, wine lovers will find unique, interesting flavors to tempt their palates. Here, three of my favorites from around the world, all available locally.
1. Quebrada del Chucao Sidra Espumante is made from apples grown in a 60-year-old Chilean orchard. It starts notes of forest floor and wild grass on the nose. It’s crisp and clean with pure apple on the palate and is amazing with soft cheese like Camembert.
$15, available at Cord & Rind 2. Bonny Doon ¿Querry? is a nontraditional a blend of pears, apples and quince. Crisply acidic but with an unmistakable quince flavor, this is just off-dry and is delicious with sushi, spicy Thai food or pho.
$9, available at Total Wine in Ballwin 3. Christian Drouin Poire is a rare Normandy pear cider from a house normally known for Calvados. This delicious gem has a pronounced pear note, followed by melon and citrus and just a hint of hay or grass. It’s a little on the sweet side, so try it with fruit tarts and other desserts.
$15, available at Starrs
Ben Wood has more than 10 years experience in the wine industry. He currently works as shop manager of Cork & Rind.
This article appears in October 2015.