Buy in, load up, #drinkcider: this selection of Spanish-imports should be at the top of your grocery list. Keep them in mind for the holiday season as well — be it for a mental escape to Asturias or to share with good food and better company.
2014 Sidra Asturiana Espumante | Bodegas Mayador | Villaviciosa
An elderly statesman of this cider scene, Mayador’s philosophy was founded on natural cider production and that tradition is carried on today, over 75 years later. Subtle sour and oaky barnyard aromas arise when the cork is released, but citrus and ripe apple come out ahead on the palate. | 5% ABV | 700ml | $15
Sidra Natural | Guzmán Riestra | Sariego
This traditional sidra is true Asturian to the core: zesty, slightly sour and funky. Unfiltered and full of texture, this aromatic and flavorsome cider is meant to match with cured meats (think jamón), sausage (chorizo) or some cave-aged blue cheese. | 6.5% ABV | 700 ml | $10
1947 Sidra Natural | Viuda de Angelón | Nava
Angelón names this traditional small batch cider for its year of establishment. The prudent selection of apples from the estate orchard results in a clean, golden tipple of balance. Tannins and acid mingle among the fresh, tart and herbaceous flavors. | 6% ABV | 750ml | $13
Sidra Brut Nature | Guzmán Riestra | Sariego
The cream of the crop goes into this cider, which receives secondary fermentation in the bottle to result in a mature and rich libation of brioche, tangy lemon and tropical fruits. With a mousse reminiscent of Champagne, this is a cordial introduction into Spanish cider. | 8% ABV | 750ml | $15
Sidra Asturiana Natural Cider | Bodegas Mayador | Villaviciosa
The flagship cider for the orchard-based ciderhouse, this still sipper hits the glass to pop quick bubbles and produce delicate aromas of sharp fruits, citrus zest and white flowers. Take it down the hatch to fully engage in the grapefruit and green apple flavors. Pair with slow-roasted pork or stew. | 6% ABV | 22oz | $10
Sidra Brut | Viuda de Angelón | Nava
The sparkling cider from this landmark maker gets its bubbs naturally and is poured proudly from the family-run cidery and pub. Quaffable yet complex with lemon curd and green apple aromas, the dry mouthfeel is creamy and complete with earth and apple skin. | 6% ABV | 750ml | $15
This article originally ran in the current print edition of CIDERCRAFT magazine. For the full story and more like it, click here.
