Hoppy Cider

The portrait

Hoppy Cider is our way of combining apple and barley in the same glass. A balancing act where we juggle two worlds: that of the cider maker and that of the brewer.

At 4.5%, this hybrid creation sails through troubled waters—both literally and figuratively. We start with a cider base, enrich it with selected malts, and then hop it like a real beer. The result? A drink that refuses to choose sides and proudly asserts its dual identity.

The 15 IBUs provide that hoppy signature that immediately distinguishes our creation from traditional ciders. The bitterness slips between the fruity notes of apple, creating a flavor tension that makes each sip intriguing. More complex than a cider, fruitier than a beer: Hoppy Cider embodies our vision of successful blending.

The story

We've always been drawn to gray areas, those territories where definitions blur. Hoppy Cider was born from this simple question: why choose between cider and beer when you can have both?

The idea came about during a tasting where we were comparing the aromatic profiles of apples and certain hops. The similarities struck us: the lively acidity, the fruity notes, the freshness on the finish. We thought there was a playground to explore.

Technically, creating a cider-beer hybrid requires mastering two distinct fermentations. We had to respect the identity of each component while creating overall harmony. A challenge that suits us: transforming technical complexity into gustatory simplicity.

This ephemeral creation bears witness to our experimental approach, this constant desire to push the boundaries of established styles.

Food and beer pairings

This hybrid drink proves to be particularly versatile, navigating with ease between the codes of aperitif and those of accompaniment.

As an aperitif, it's a natural accompaniment to platters of charcuterie and fresh cheeses. Its cider-like vibrancy awakens the taste buds, while its hoppy bitterness interacts with the salty notes of cured ham or young Comté cheese.

Pork dishes find a perfect partner in it. Grilled ribs, filet mignon with apples, or a simple Sunday roast: the fruity acidity tenderizes the meat while the hops structure the whole thing. A pairing that makes perfect sense.

For world cuisine, try mild chicken curries or mild Thai dishes. The freshness of the cider tempers the spices while the bitterness of the hops reveals the complexity of the Asian aromas.

For desserts, opt for apple-based creations : tarte Tatin, fruit crumble, or simple homemade compote. The resonance is obvious, creating this apple-apple harmony that is both comforting and surprising.

The final word

Hoppy Cider belongs to our most daring experiments, a time when we explored the boundaries between styles with the carefree abandon of pioneers. This ephemeral creation reminds us that innovation sometimes comes from refusing to choose.

Although it no longer flows through our lines today, its hybrid spirit endures in our creative approach. It remains proof that with curiosity and a touch of madness, we can reconcile worlds that are completely opposed—or that are completely similar, depending on your point of view.

Cheers! 🍻

The recipe