Merrydown Original

Clear, golden, quite carbonated, not much taste. Another so-so bottled cider, the outsized bottle is its best attribute.

Merrydown Original (6.8% ABV, 750ml). The second of only two products by the company. Not much of a difference in the company's description of either, this one - at the exact same gravity - is supposed to be medium-dry. Bright, clear yellow colour. Aroma isn't very strong, but there's faint apples, lemon. Slightly acidic. Light body, lively carbonation. Definitely less acidic and sour on the palate than the "Dry" version, the notes here initially sweet apples balanced by lemon, vinegar, apple skins. Moderate tannins, increasing towards the finish, which is dry and citrusy. The aftertaste is citrusy, too, with some mild tannins, hints of apples, yeast. Crisp medium-dry cider that's better than its reputation. Not great, but solid, with a bit too much fizz. 6.5/10.

Not a distinguished cider - rather bland.

Aroma of apples and honey and this also comes through in the taste.

Comes in a 750 ml bottle. Pale golden in colour, with a floral, honeyed, apple aroma. Flavour is initially a little sweet, before an underlying sourness comes through strongly. Slightly oily mouth feel. Trip down memory lane for me, but not quite what I remembered; I seem to remember sweet and dry versions, and this is neither.

Ok. Quite strong in alcohol for a blandish cider.