Discover the Best Ciders to Keep You Refreshed This Weekend!
As the weekend approaches, there’s nothing quite like the crisp, refreshing taste of cold ciders to unwind and relax. Whether you’re hosting a braai, spending a lazy afternoon in the garden, or just looking for a delightful drink to accompany your weekend plans, here are the top 10 ciders to keep you refreshed this weekend.
1. Savanna Dry
Availability: Widely available in South African liquor stores such as Checkers LiquorShop, Pick n Pay Liquor, and Makro Liquor.
Description: Savanna Dry offers a perfectly balanced blend of sweetness and tartness. Made from the finest apples, this cider is best served chilled with a slice of lemon. Its dry finish makes it an ideal choice for a hot day.
2. Strongbow Gold Apple
Availability: Available at major stores like Pick n Pay Liquor, Checkers LiquorShop, and Makro Liquor.
Description: Strongbow Gold Apple is a global classic, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. This cider strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of ripe apples and a tangy finish, making it a great companion for any weekend activity.
3. Hunters Dry
Availability: Easily found in most South African liquor stores, including Liquor City, Checkers LiquorShop, and Pick n Pay Liquor.
Description: Hunters Dry is another South African staple, loved for its clean and refreshing taste. Made from 100% natural apple juice, this cider is a fantastic option for those who prefer a drier beverage with a fruity aroma.
4. Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime
Availability: Available at selected stores like Makro Liquor and Checkers LiquorShop.
Description: Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime cider offers a sweet and tangy combination that is both refreshing and unique. Serve it over ice with a slice of lime for an extra burst of flavour.
5. Magners Original Irish Cider
Availability: Available at select stores such as Checkers LiquorShop and Makro Liquor.
Description: Magners Original Irish Cider is a well-balanced blend of sweetness and acidity, crafted using 17 varieties of apples. Its rich and complex flavour profile makes it a standout choice for cider enthusiasts.
6. Cluver & Jack Craft Cider
Availability: Available at Checkers LiquorShop and speciality liquor stores.
Description: Cluver & Jack Craft Cider is a locally crafted cider that offers a crisp and refreshing taste. Made from 100% fresh-pressed apple juice, it provides a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, ideal for a warm weekend.
7. Sxollie Golden Delicious
Availability: Available at Pick n Pay Liquor and Makro Liquor.
Description: Sxollie Golden Delicious is a proudly South African cider made from Golden Delicious apples. Its bright and crisp flavour, coupled with a hint of sweetness, makes it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
8. Loxtonia Pale Amber Apple Cider
Availability: Available at Liquor City and Checkers LiquorShop.
Description: Loxtonia Pale Amber Apple Cider is an artisanal cider made from hand-picked apples. It has a rich amber colour and a complex flavour profile that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a dry finish.
9. Alpha Dry Cider
Availability: Available at selected specialty liquor stores.
Description: Alpha Dry Cider is a locally produced cider known for its clean and crisp taste. Made from locally sourced apples, it offers a refreshing and slightly dry finish, perfect for a sunny afternoon.
10. Everson’s Cloudy Apple Cider
Availability: Available at Checkers LiquorShop and specialty liquor stores.
Description: Everson’s Cloudy Apple Cider is an unfiltered cider that retains more of the apple’s natural flavors. Its cloudy appearance and rich taste make it a unique and refreshing option for cider lovers.
Tips for Enjoying Your Cider
To get the most out of your cider experience, follow these simple tips:
- Serve Chilled: Always serve your cider well-chilled. If you have time, place the bottle in the fridge a few hours before you plan to drink it.
- Use the Right Glass: While ciders can be enjoyed straight from the bottle, serving it in a glass can enhance its aroma and flavour. Opt for a tulip or wine glass to concentrate the cider’s bouquet.
- Garnish Creatively: Add a slice of lemon, lime, or even a sprig of mint to give your ciders an extra burst of freshness.
- Pair with Food: Ciders pair beautifully with a variety of foods, from cheeses and charcuterie to grilled meats and spicy dishes. Experiment with different pairings to find your perfect match.
Conclusion
With these top 10 ciders, you’re all set to enjoy a refreshing and enjoyable weekend. Whether you prefer something sweet, dry, or with a fruity twist, there’s a cider on this list for everyone. So, grab your favourite, kick back, and enjoy the weekend with delicious, cold ciders in hand. Cheers!
Also read: 10 Outstanding Cocktail Bars in Gauteng
