Before prohibition the term cider referred to a fermented beverage made from apples, pears or both. Since the middle of the 20th century the term cider can describe both non-alcoholic and fermented ciders, but hard cider is the most common descriptor for those with alcohol. New England has been home to cider from the time of the pilgrims’ arrival and still finds a number of producers among its farmers. However, our tasting this week will show ciders from regions other than New England including California and Scotland. Come join us for a taste, perhaps you will honor the turkey meal with some fermented apple juice.

J.K’S SCRUMPY ORGANIC HARD CIDER

Almard Orchards has been making ciders since the 1850′s. I am going to let Jim Koa, head of the current generation, tell their story: “Our cider is not only natural, it is truly organic. We use no insecticides in the farm orchards. I have a large flock of guinea fowl that wander about and eat the bugs. Fallen apples that have hit the ground are always a food source for pests, so I let my Berkshire pigs wander the orchard and eat the fallen apples. In a fast-paced, instant gratification society all this may seem a little old fashioned, or not “cost-effective.” But, we have a cider that is not like any other, and the idea of playing around with what makes that happen… well, it just ain’t part of the plan.” Simply put a delicious slightly sweet beverage perfect for mulling. 750ml $7.99

JULIAN HARD CIDER

The Julian Hard Cider recipe originates from 1670 colonial America and is comparable to the finest British ciders. Located in what was a gold rush town called Julian, only the freshest apples are used, no added sugar or other additives. The cider is lightly carbonated with tartness, acidity and a clean dry finish, enabling it to stand firmly on its own or compliment your favorite meal.22 oz $8.99

THISTLY CROSS SCOTTISH HARD CIDER

This venture of two Scottish cider lovers was started a few years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Gold in color, smooth in texture and medium dry this farmhouse cider is made with a blend of Scottish apples and fermented with Champagne yeast. Bottled after a 6 month maturation period gives the cider balance and weight. 500ml $7.99

WINE TASTING Saturday 3-7pm

Heartland Wines was created by a group of Australian wine figures including Ben Glaetzer, a leader of progressive winemaking in Australia. While much of Australian wine has been relegated to the backburner by industry critics primarily due to the presence of mediocre labels started by such names as Yellowtail, there is a significant segment of dedicated winemakers who strive to achieve high quality and uniqueness. It is our pleasure to present you with three examples this week.

HEARTLAND STICKLEBACK WHITE 09

A blend of Verdelho, Viognier and Semillon this wine offers a fragrant nose, with citrus & tropical fruit flavors bursting out of the glass. This is a wine greater than the sum of its parts, with each variety bringing its own unique quality to the blend. Verdelho adds natural richness and acidity to the palate. Viognier contributes luscious body and texture. Semillon provides vibrant, zesty citrus characters. Flavors of white nectarine and apricot kernel and perfectly balanced by a crisp natural acidity on the finish. $13.99

HEARTLAND STICKLEBACK RED 2008

Blended from Cabernet, Shiraz, and Dolcetto with a touch of Lagrein this is a fragrant wine with black fruit characters of cherry, sweet plums and blackcurrant on the nose, with notes of chocolate and nutmeg spice. The blend is chosen for optimum flavor and texture, with each variety bringing a unique character to the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz give the wine a rich savory character and great structure. Dolcetto lends brightness and lift, and Lagrein contributes spice, tannin and a fresh, crisp acidity to the palate. Great with lamb. $13.99

HEARTLAND CABERNET SAUVIGNON 08

Intensely fragrant, with a nose of concentrated plums, cassis and spicy oak characters. The palate displays rich plummy, blackcurrant jam notes with a hint of cardamom spice. After fermentation the wine is matured in French and American oak barrels before bottling. Original release price was $20.-, we are able to offer it at an amazingly low $12.99

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Stop in on Thursday 8-20-2009 for our Francis Ford Coppola Wine Tasting & don’t be up the “CREEK” without a paddle, Otter Creek that is. Have a tasty treat of Otter Creek Breweries lineup of great beers.

Not tired yet? Stop by on Friday for a tour of the East Coast. Where we will be tasting Cisco Brews, Clipper City and Southern Tier.

Just another reason to stop by and say hello to your favorite wine and beer store. more info