Cider Spotlight!

Joujou
Overgrown Orchard, Gary IN

An orchard-based cidery with a corporate address in Chicago’s Logan Square might sound like a contradiction, but Overgrown Orchard manages to be both, with four acres of land just over the Indiana state line. Joujou pours a cloudy gold color and throws off a complex aroma of heritage apples, vinous wine grapes, spicy pineapple, and a barnyard-like yeast character. Bittersharp with acidity taking the lead at first, this aged, wild fermented cider spent time in Pinot Noir and Calvados barrels and delivers an earthy flavor with a touch of minerality and an overall character that bears some resemblance to Spanish sidra. Dry and racy in the finish with a fruity linger, it’s a fascinating, food-friendly drink that doesn’t fully reveal itself until the second glass.