Downeast Out Of Office Mix

Out Of Office Mix comes from Downeast, a cider maker. The name suggests a mixed or variety pack, so check the label for which flavors are in the box. The listing gives no ABV, flavor list or can count, so the notes below describe what ciders of this type usually offer. They are not a measured profile of this product. Expect a fruit-forward cider with apple at the center. Downeast's range is generally made as unfiltered, cloudy cider, which usually means a fuller body and softer texture than a bright, filtered one. Most ciders in this category land somewhere between off-dry and lightly sweet, with acidity that keeps them from tasting heavy. Cider has no hop bitterness to speak of, so IBU is not a useful measure here. Check the label for the ABV, since many canned ciders sit in the 5 to 7 percent range. Serve it cold, around 38 to 45°F (3 to 7°C), which keeps the acidity crisp and stops the sweetness from becoming cloying. Straight from the refrigerator works, and you can add ice if you want a longer, more diluted pour. A pint glass or tulip suits unfiltered cider, because the wider bowl lets the apple aroma open up. A stemless wine glass also works. If you pour from a can, tip it gently so any sediment mixes in evenly instead of collecting in the last sip. Cider at this level of sweetness and acidity pairs easily with salty, fatty or lightly spiced food. Good matches include sharp cheddar, grilled sausages, roast pork, fried chicken, pretzels and charcuterie. Apple-friendly desserts such as a crisp or a plain cake also work. For a spicy dish, a slightly sweeter bottle will tone down the heat better than a dry one.