I have had Crispin cider before, but I haven't written about it. On the whole, I don't write about products I don't really like. Crispin cider is ok. Its not great, though its better than most I have tried, it just isn't fantastic, and I don't see the point in writing about things that aren't fantastic.
Crispin's limited release of their Staggar Lee, well its worthy of grabbing a pen. The standard Crispin cider is a bit boring, one note, and while it is less sweet than the standard ciders (Magners, Original Sin, Harpoon) its still not a slam dunk. Stagger Lee is beautiful. There are complexities and flavors beyond that of apple. It is not floral, but a little smokey, and the rye barrel flavor really comes out. Its a bit pricey, $5 for a single bottle, but I believe its worth it. There are some subtle flavors that you have to go hunting for to find, so I wouldn't recommend it as a with-food beverage, but it certainly could handle a meal.
Crispin's limited release of their Staggar Lee, well its worthy of grabbing a pen. The standard Crispin cider is a bit boring, one note, and while it is less sweet than the standard ciders (Magners, Original Sin, Harpoon) its still not a slam dunk. Stagger Lee is beautiful. There are complexities and flavors beyond that of apple. It is not floral, but a little smokey, and the rye barrel flavor really comes out. Its a bit pricey, $5 for a single bottle, but I believe its worth it. There are some subtle flavors that you have to go hunting for to find, so I wouldn't recommend it as a with-food beverage, but it certainly could handle a meal.
I feel the same way about most of the Crispin ciders, except for the English-style Browns Lane, which comes in a can. I will have to try to find some Stagger Lee to try.
ReplyDeleteWe randomly came across the Stagger Lee in my favorite gastropub nearby, and agree. It might be my favorite cider ever, while most Crispins are either non-descript or too sweet for me, too.
ReplyDeleteI'm now interested in trying more of their limited releases now.
Did you find this in the Boston area? I'd love to try it, but have no idea where to look. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI found this, and one other limited release Crispin, at the Whole Foods on River St. in Cambridge. Happy sipping!
ReplyDeleteWickson single varietal from Salem Oregon Cidery, Wandering Aengus is definitely worth bragging about. Perhaps you can order direct from http://www.wanderingaengus.com/wordpress/ .
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