I haven’t given a cider 5/5 in ages and this one hits the spot. It’s incredible - especially for a dry cider (that describes itself and medium dry).
Under the nose it’s so floral with hints of orange peel and brown caramelised sugar. It just hits you. It’s so wonderful and vibrant.
The taste is exceptional. So rounded, full and dry. The length is very impressive for a cider that describes itself as medium-dry and it’s perhaps the medium edge that allows this cider more length than some. It’s punchy, funky but light and elegant at the same time with a rounded, smooth edge. It has astringency that bites and then mellows into one of the most satisfying ciders I’ve ever had - and I do love a dry cider!
The colour in the glass is thick orange/bronze. You can’t see through this one, it’s thick and plentiful and has a citrus orange bite on the back end. It’s full bodied with a great length and incredibly satisfying with a hint of fizz and carbonation.
The best thing about this cider is it’s 4.5%ABV and you could go all night on this - if you like your dry ciders - and I’d urge you to enjoy this cider on its own as it deserves this sentiment. The back story to the making of this cider is both triumphant and tragic at the same time. Named after Peter Gratton who worked the cider orchard for 59 years, and died one year after retiring in 2013….this cider is a perfect tribute to him and an all-round brilliantly tasting and exceptional cider. This is one of the best I’ve had in a while and I shall certainly be buying more and raising a glass to the great man himself. As a Devon cider, this is one of the best as normally I find the best dry ciders are from Somerset (and sometimes from Herefordshire).
5/5. Exceptional. A real treat and a greatly crafted cider that scores in all areas.
Reviewed on 02 Jul 2024
