Cider: My new vice

[C91]

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...

[tallulahdahling]

Wow--I haven't tasted cider since I was in Ireland about 20 years ago!  Now I'm craving it! 

[kimmi]

pear cider is so yummy!