We’re stepping out of our realm a bit this week with our latest review, Woodchuck Private Reserve Hard Cider. 101 is all about a guide to better drinking but for the most part we’ve stuck to the hard stuff. Admittedly so, we’re not big beer drinkers around here but one thing we do love (besides the obvious of hard liquor), is Hard Cider. Woodchuck cider is based out of Vermont, and has been around since 1990, evolving from one product to the many they produce today.
WoodChuck Pink is the latest in their line of is private reserve labels and is unique not only in its taste, but in the fact that it supports a great cause. Maybe it’s bright pink packaging, and pink hue gave it away, and that’s that it promotes Breast Cancer Awareness. In addition to the visual support, portions of sales are donated to a Vermont based non-profit.
From Woodchuck.com:
“We want to help survivors meet that challenge. Woodchuck Pink was crafted to honor that effort. The Cidery’s donation supports Dragonheart’s Survivorship NOW mission which offers programs to help cancer survivors.
“Woodchuck Hard Cider’s donation will help to keep the wellness programs of Survivor-ship NOW free to all cancer survivors in our Vermont community,” said Dragonheart Board Member Linda Dyer. “And, free for many survivors, is the difference of being able to participate in the classes or not. It is another example of our Vermont community pulling together to help one another and we truly appreciate it.”
I’m a sucker for a good cause, so if it tastes good as well, that becomes an added bonus right? So what do we think of it?
Taste: As previously mentioned, it comes packaged in bright pink branding, that screams Breast Cancer Awareness. After opening it, a lightly crisp apple aroma hits the nose combined with a sweet subtly similar to a zinfandel wine, very floral. Once we poured it, we noticed a pink hue which was a nice touch to the marketing, but also gives insight into what makes this private reserve differ than the others. It’s color comes from the use of Grape skin extract, and also lends in my opinion a flavor that reminds me of a soft red wine. It’s semi dry, light bodied, and at 5.5% alcohol its perfect for summer sipping.
Price: $9.99 – $12.99 (depending on location)
Overall: Another winner from the folks up in Vermont. Ciders are great alternatives to beer, and much like any other spirit, come in many seasonal flavors that compliment the weather you’re experiencing. In this case, Woodchuck Pink perfect on a hot summers day, and will make you feel good inside knowing a portion of the proceeds are lending a hand in the fight against Breast Cancer. Although a bit pricier than traditional ciders, including the core brands of Woodchuck, it is in line with other private labels, and well worth the price. For some additional fun with this cider, check out this recipe for Woodchuck Pink Apples with Honey Chevre Dip courtesy of PinkRibbonCooking.com
Cheers!
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