Cider Spotlight!

GLINTCAP is the Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition — sixteen years old this year. (Before we know it, it will be going to cider prom!) This year’s GLINTCAP just finished at the end of May, and Virginia ciders fared very well in the commercial cider competition. Our friends in Highland County, Big Fish Cider Company, brought home two gold medals for their ciders. We’ve loved Big Fish ciders for years. We’re so pleased for the cider makers, and pleased to feature their work.

Big Fish Wild Meadow

$19.99 for the 750ml bottle
Hard Apple Cider Made from Foraged Apples

The Wild Meadow has found its way into our spotlight before, so we hope you’ll forgive us for breaking our hands off at the wrists patting ourselves on the back for spotting the good stuff. ;)

The Wild Meadow is made from foraged apples from Highland County fields and forest edges, apples that are higher in tannins and acidity. Big Fish holds that these apples contain more depth and character than commercially grown ones, and the Wild Meadow is certainly rich in their flavor. A dry cider, we suggest drinking it just a little cool as opposed to cold because the warmer temperature allows the acidity to mellow out a bit. However, regardless of how you drink it, we suggest drinking it.

Big Fish Northern Spy

$17.99 for the 750ml bottle
Hard Apple Cider

The Northern Spy is an apple that has been grown widely in the Allegheny Mountains for years. Big Fish grows them at their Hightown Orchard — more than 3000 feet about sea level — and has neither used fertilizer nor spray. Once again. Big Fish prizes “naturally grown” apples for their more intense flavors.

A semi-dry cider, the Northern Spy throws off an earthy, tannin-like scent that smells like it comes straight from the skins. The aroma sits on top of a rich apple flavor in the juice with hints of tartness. It will be great with sharp or stinky cheeses. Of course, it’s also just great on its own.