Kupela Sagardoa Cidre Artisanal (6% ABV, 750ml). Basque cider made from fresh apples without any sugar or other additional flavourings. Basque cider production can involve up to 100 different apple varieties from bitter to sweet. This is a "still" cider, there is carbonation, but just minimally.
Hazy bright orange colour. Aroma is apples, vinegar and, notably, yeast. Medium body. Initial palate is dry; apples are predominantly sour and bitter. Yeast, again, is a major factor. Turns more sour in the mouth, but with moderate acidity. Finish, too, is yeasty and dry. Sour apples, some more vinegar in the aftertaste. I think this comes close to the "real cider" at beer festivals, and it would certainly make for refreshing drink after a long hard day on the farm. But it's not my cup of tea. So, a bit one-note. 6/10.
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2023
