What happens when one of the world’s hottest chili peppers meets a cold, crisp bottle of cider? Finnriver Farm & Cidery cider maker Chris Weir began experimenting with habanero heat during the winter of 2013, when the resulting Habanero Cider was featured at Port Townsend, Wash.,’s annual Strange Brew Festival. This limited release cider can still be found at select Puget Sound bottle shops.
The organic, Chimacum, Wash.-based cidery’s habanero rendition is a departure from a classic craft cider, yet mild enough for the curious cider lover. Its apple aroma is supplemented by a pungent pepper kick that clears the senses. Each sip features mildly effervescent apple up front, followed by a quick rush of chili pepper spice that slowly fizzles off, leaving a mild heat in the mouth that begs to be quenched by another sip. This spicy cider makes for a nice palate cleanser in between bites of your favorite Mexican cuisine, or a perfect accompaniment for your next Taco Tuesday. Follow Finnriver’s recommendations and dig into a fish taco plate or bowl of chips and salsa.
Follow on Facebook: Finnriver
Track on Twitter: @FinnriverFarm
