You should be drinking hard cider. Beer is great, don’t get me wrong, but sometimes you just need something with a little more flavor. Let me enlighten your taste buds.

By Erika Owen

The Midwest has some less-than-awesome contributions to the world of alcohol and nights-not-remembered—Milwaukee’s Best, Natural Light, Old Milwaukee (c’mon Milwaukee!), Coors Light; the list goes on.

If you’ve lost a little faith in your beloved homeland (don’t get me wrong, there are some great Midwestern beers), let me pick up the pieces: hard cider. The Midwest has some shining stars when it comes to sweet, alcoholic treats.

Beer’s hot sister, hard cider has got it going on. Here are five ciders—three from the Midwest—you’ve probably never heard of, but should run to the stores and buy now.

-Crispin Natural Hard Apple Cider

Brewed in Minneapolis, this drink knows how to pack a sweet punch. The real difference with this cider is in the weight. Getting “iced” sucks—no one really likes Smirnoff Ice anyway—but getting “crisped” would be a privilege. The light taste makes it easy to take a few consecutive gulps without your stomach churning in regret. Do as you’re told—they mean it when they tell you to drink it over ice.

-Sutliff Hard Cider

Getting a dose of alcohol has never been easier for soda fans. Sip some of Lisbon, Iowa’s Sutliff hard cider and you’d never guess that your drink has an alcohol content. Very bubbly with close to no head, Sutliff hits the spot for those who don’t like the taste of alcohol in their alcohol.

-Hard Apple Cherry Cider

Hard cider isn’t just for apples—that’s what makes it the best fall drink, ever. Fruit lovers, rejoice: Black Star Farms in Cedarburg, Wisc. has brought you a cherry spin on the traditional hard apple cider. Sweet with a tangy aftertaste, don’t try and throw down more than two bottles in one sitting. If you do, prepare for sugar-induced gut-rot.

-Woodchuck Amber Draft Cider, Fall Edition

Thank you, Vermont. That’s all that needs to be said after sipping this brew. Tones of nutmeg and cinnamon explode in your mouth where that weird, beer aftertaste used to linger. This cider houses a lot of spice, so watch out—if you’re not a fan of apple pie, you’ll want to steer clear.

-Strongbow

It’s everywhere, and it’s basic. If you’re looking for a reliable, never-changing cider, keep England in mind. Strongbow is available at almost any bar or liquor store and provides that sweet and slightly beer-like taste that a strong cider is known for. Beware: this cider isn’t as fruity as the ones mentioned above. Expect the aftertaste you’d get when drinking a beer.

You’ve got the wisdom, now go make the purchase. Fall in love with the Midwest—again—for a whole new taste bud-approved reason.

Photo: Chiot’s Run

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