Apologies all. Been WAY behind on my replies...let me begin...
Beer: Ekul - Cider
Date: 25th June 11
Details: 330mL Corona bottle
Sampling Notes:
The bottled had me worried, in more ways than one. Not sure if cider can suffer light strike; doesnt have hops so probably not; but this is apparently a year old anyway and seems like a good way to start off a Beer Lotto.
Pours out quite a clear straw glass of cider. Bit of bubbly white foam rises up and falls relatively swiftly.
Aroma has that atypical bit of funk you get with non-commercial ciders; cooked apple, brown sugar, celery, asparagus, white pepper, bit of cardamon-like spice, the slightest hint of acetaldehyde, but not in a derogatory way.
Carbonation is a tad course, without being over effervescent and nasty. Palate length is somewhat short, support acid hits a spike then dissipates leaving a slightly chalky finish to it. The mouthfeel is actually quite nice and full, just wish it hung around longer.
The flavour reminds me why I prefer non-commercial cider; sure theres a bit of watery red delicious apple character in there, but its everything else that makes it interesting; bread crust, more white pepper and celery stalk, an interesting unripe guava note and citrus peel. Finishes bone dry, lingering leafy herbaceousness.
Totally reminds me of the from juice ciders Ive made over the years. I can see why ciders like this arent commercially successful, but theres a certain romance and complexity to them that makes them a drink unto themselves plus I just like funky stuff. Cheers Luke!