Taste of the Hudson Valley: Cider, Wine & Beer

I was at an event last weekend pouring my wines, but that doesn't stop me from trying the other libations being poured.

There was a new cider producer at the event, Yankee Folly Cidery. Bottled in a wine bottle, they just released their first cider with an 8.5% alcohol content.  I think that is on the high side for cider, but I am not the alcohol police. Let's get down to the taste.

I am not a big cider fan, but when I taste a cider that is on the dry side, I am sold.  This cider isn't to sweet and isn't to dry. It has nice soft flavors of apple with a nice effervescence.  It wasn't overly carbonated and left a nice finish in your mouth.

You can find more information on the cidery at http://www.yankeefollycidery.com/ 

Glorie Farm Winery has one of the best growing sites in the Hudson Valley on Mountain Road in Marlboro.  I was excited to taste his 2012 Cab Franc. Nice black cherry flavors and a soft spice on the finish. This wine was aged for 14 months in American oak.  It retails for $19

After the event I went out to dinner with a friend at the Mountain Brauhaus. If you are ever in the Hudson Valley and have a craving for good German food, this is the place!  I was deciding on my beer selection when I spotted Yard Owl Grisette Ale made by Hudson Valley winemaker Kristop Brown.  Kristop is a great winemaker and lives up to the mark of a great brewmaster as well.

His Grisette Ale is light and refreshing.  Not hoppy. I got citrus aromas in the glass with a hint of apples and pears. It's not to heavy as some beers can be.  I tasted some soft orange flavors with a slight spice.  It didn't leave a strong aftertaste in your mouth.  I really enjoyed it! It paired very well with our Bavarian Pretzel and the cheese mustard dip that accompanied it.