While in the UK last week, I rediscovered cider. It happened quite by accident, really. I had been drinking Tennent's Lager at pubs, but one night found myself at a Glasgow pub that didn't offer it on tap. Not satisfied with the other choices, I ordered what on special: Strongbow.
I took a sip and said to myself, "This isn't beer...it's cider. And it's great!" And I ordered another.
Now, I'm not a cider virgin. I had tasted a few while I was a student there in 1993. But that was more of a novelty. I still preferred lagers or the occasional gin and tonic. There was a short time where I would buy a 6-pack of Hornsby's. But I think it was just part of a small beer-snobbery phase.
But after that one sip of Strongbow, I was lured back in to the sweet, crisp taste of cider. For the rest of my trip, I sought out Strongbow or other local ciders. While I preferred to find it on tap, cans or bottles worked in a pinch.
Now that I'm back in the states, I'm seeking out good ciders. Last night, I was in a local pub and asked if they had any cider and the waitress offered me apple or pear. I chose the latter and was soon enjoying a bottle of Wyder's Pear Cider from Canada. And another soon after.
While I don't see myself losing my love for Miller High Life anytime soon, it's nice to have rediscovered such a refreshing alternative. I'll be looking for Strongbow at the supermarket this week...
Wow--I haven't tasted cider since I was in Ireland about 20 years ago! Now I'm craving it! :drool2:
pear cider is so yummy!