Woodchuck Winter Cider

I was perusing the beer aisle at the local grocery store recently and noticed Woodchuck Winter Hard Cider on the shelf. The label described this cider as "Oak aged with a hint of vanilla." Knowing that a friend who is a fan of ciders would be visiting soon, I decided to pick up a six pack. Of course I sent him a photo of the display as a tease too.

We cracked into the Woodchuck Winter Cider one recent late evening. The cider pours an attractive dark copper color. It was a very different appearance from the Spring release reviewed previously. It reminded me of the color of the apple cider one finds at roadside stands in the fall. The aroma was faint sweet fruit but rather non-descript otherwise. The flavor is slightly sweet with some earthy undertones. Hints of caramel and vanilla come through. The mouthfeel is mildly effervescent with a lingering sweetness.

I enjoyed the refreshing crispness of this limited release from the Woodchuck Cider folks. It was an enjoyable late night treat before retiring for the evening. In fact, lately I've found myself opting for a cider on occasion, rather than a beer, when I'm looking for a late-evening "light" refreshment.