Downeast Imp Org

Imp Org is a cider from Downeast, and the product details give no ABV, apple blend or sweetness level. What follows is the typical profile for this kind of cider, not a measured one for this bottle. Downeast is generally known for unfiltered, cloudy ciders, so expect some haze and a soft, juicy apple character rather than the crisp, bone-dry finish of a filtered cider. Ciders in this style usually show fresh-pressed apple on the nose, gentle fruit sweetness and a light acidity that keeps the finish clean. Cider has no hops, so there is no hop bitterness or IBU to speak of. Any grip on the finish would come from apple tannin. Check the label for ABV and sweetness before you choose a pairing. Serve it well chilled, around 3 to 6°C (38 to 43°F). Cold keeps the acidity bright and stops the sweetness from reading heavy, though a few minutes out of the fridge lets the apple aroma open up. A tulip or stemless wine glass works best because it concentrates the aroma. A standard pint glass or tumbler also suits a casual, juicy cider. Pour gently, since unfiltered ciders can leave a little sediment at the bottom. Whether to swirl it in is up to you. For food, the acidity and apple fruit suit pork in most forms, including roast loin, pulled shoulder and sausages. Sharp cheddar, aged gouda and washed-rind cheeses also go well, as do roast chicken, sage or mustard-based dishes, and salty fried foods such as fish and chips. If the cider turns out to be off-dry, its sweetness will also tone down the heat in mildly spicy dishes. Apple-forward desserts like tarts and crumbles work too, though serve the cider colder than the dessert so it still tastes fresh.