As a longtime fan of both craft ciders and hoppy beers, I was excited—but cautiously optimistic—about trying heartwood Hard Apple Cider. To my absolute delight, it exceeded every expectation.
The pour is crisp and clear with a beautiful pale gold hue, topped by a gentle effervescence that hints at its sophistication. Right away, the aroma draws you in: fresh-cut apples balanced by bright, citrusy hops. It smells like the first day of spring in a glass.
The taste is where this cider truly shines. It starts with the clean, slightly tart bite of fresh-pressed apples, but is quickly layered with a subtle bitterness and herbal complexity from the hops. The finish is dry, refreshing, and pleasantly lingering—leaving a hint of grapefruit zest and green tea.
What I love most is the balance. Unlike many hopped ciders that go too far into IPA territory, this one respects its apple base while letting the hops add character without overwhelming. It’s elegant, creative, and ridiculously drinkable.
This is the kind of cider you could enjoy year-round—elevated enough for a dinner party, but refreshing enough for a sunny afternoon on the porch. A perfect harmony of orchard and brewery. I'll definitely be stocking up.
