Citizen Cider Mix Pack

Citizen Cider's Mix Pack is a variety assortment, so it's built for comparing several ciders side by side instead of settling into one flavor. The listing doesn't say which varieties are inside, so check the labels on the cans or bottles for each one's flavor, ABV and sweetness before you plan an evening around it. Citizen Cider is a producer known for apple-forward ciders, and mixed packs from cider makers typically range from crisp, dry apple to fruit- or hop-accented versions. Expect a spread of sweetness and acidity across the pack. The most useful way to drink a mixed pack is in order. Start with the driest or most tart cider, since its sharp apple acidity and light body are easy to pick up, and move toward anything sweeter, fruitier or more heavily flavored. Tasting in that order keeps a sweeter cider from dulling your read of a drier one. A fruit-infused or hopped cider will usually have a more pronounced aroma. A traditional dry style tends to show tannin and a clean, slightly tart finish. Pour a small amount of each into the same glass for a direct comparison, and rinse the glass or switch glasses between varieties. Chill ciders in the refrigerator, roughly 4 to 8°C (about 40 to 46°F). Drier, lighter ciders are best at the cold end of that range, while fuller or sweeter ones show more aroma and apple character if they sit out of the fridge for ten minutes first. Serve in a tulip glass, a stemmed white wine glass or a standard pint glass. The first two concentrate aroma better, which helps with fruit-forward bottles. Skip the frozen mug, because over-chilling flattens the apple character. For food, dry and tart ciders suit roast pork, sausages, sharp cheddar, and fried foods like fish and chips, where the acidity cuts through the fat. Sweeter or fruit-leaning ones go well with spicy dishes such as Thai or Indian curries, where residual sugar tempers the heat. They also work with soft cheeses like brie and with apple-based desserts. Putting out a small board with a couple of cheeses and cured meats gives you something to match against each cider in the pack.