Feels Like Home Cider

Feels Like Home Cider is an Esplanda cider, and the product details give nothing beyond that: no ABV, apple varieties, sweetness level, or carbonation. What follows is what ciders in this category usually offer, so treat it as general guidance and not a measured profile of this bottling. Check the label for ABV and sweetness before you plan a pairing around it. Expect the usual cider profile of fresh apple on the nose and palate, with a crisp, slightly tart finish. If it leans dry, the apple character is more tannic and structured, closer to the skin of the fruit. If it leans off-dry or semi-sweet, expect rounder apple-juice flavor balanced by acidity. Most commercial ciders carry light to moderate carbonation, which keeps the finish clean and makes them easy to drink with food. Serve it well chilled, around 3 to 7 °C (roughly 38 to 45 °F), which is about what a home refrigerator holds. Cold keeps the acidity bright and stops a sweeter style from tasting heavy. A fuller, more tannic cider can go a few degrees warmer, near 8 to 10 °C, to bring out more apple character. A standard pint glass works fine for everyday pouring. For a more aromatic style, a tulip glass or a white-wine glass concentrates the fruit and holds the bubbles longer. Pour at a slight angle to keep the head under control. For food, cider's acidity and light sweetness suit roast pork, pork sausages, and ham, where the apple flavor echoes the meat. It also cuts through fried food, such as fish and chips or chicken, and handles sharp cheddar, brie, and other washed-rind or soft cheeses. Dry versions pair well with mussels and other shellfish. Slightly sweeter versions can balance mildly spicy dishes, including curries and Thai-style stir-fries.