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Deeper Insights Into the World of Cider

Serving & Storing

CHILLING

Serving cider well is an art, and temperature is your first stroke. It affects how aromas develop, how acidity is expressed, and how bubbles move. Nailing it turns a good glass into a memorable experience.

Cold temperatures can dull the perception of acidity, making sweet ciders feel smoother. Meanwhile, our ultra-dry sparkling cider tastes best when served ice cold, ideally between 35°F and 40°F. This not only preserves the crispness but also lets the bubbles lift its delicate aromatics as the cider warms slightly in the glass.

To chill, simply immerse Heavy Branch Cidery bottles in a half-filled ice bucket for 30 minutes or place bottles in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Flute or tulip glasses enhance your Heavy Branch Cider sipping experience.

GLASSWARE

The proper glass elevates the experience. A crystal-clear tulip or flute-style glass not only showcases the cider's clarity but also boosts aroma and effervescence, hallmarks of a truly refined pour. Holding the glass by the stem prevents warming the cider with your hand.

Because flavor includes both taste and scent, a tapered glass naturally concentrates the cider's aroma. As you sip, the shape directs those delicate notes upward, utilizing the Venturi effect, a gentle acceleration of air that enhances aroma and sparkle.

Our experience shows that using the wrong cider glass or one that isn't properly maintained can cause your sparkling cider to go flat quickly. As early as 1858, Louis Pasteur observed that rough surfaces facilitate the escape of CO2 from a liquid. That's why the best glassware often has a tiny shape or scratch etched at the bottom to help preserve the carbonation.

A fine glass deserves proper care. To preserve your cider's bubbles and aroma, use clean, residue-free stemware. Even a trace of detergent can

disrupt the mousse or dull carbonation. We recommend handwashing glasses in hot water, rinsing thoroughly, and letting them air dry naturally, no towel required. Store them upright to prevent odors, and cover lightly if necessary. A little attention goes a long way toward a flawless pour.

STORING

Thoughtful storage preserves the quality of your cider. Keep bottles at 50°F to 60°F (10°C–15°C) and protect them from temperature swings. Light, whether natural or artificial, can cause cider to age prematurely, compromising its freshness and elegance. For the optimal experience, enjoy the cider within a year of its release.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's behind the name Heavy Branch Cidery?

Like our cider, the name Heavy Branch Cidery holds layers of meaning. "Branch" refers to the streams flowing from the Blue Ridge Mountains, nourishing the land where our apples grow. A heavy branch is symbolic of abundance: of fruit, of success, of life well-lived.

2. Do you make gluten-free ciders?

Yes, all the ciders from Heavy Branch Cidery are completely and naturally gluten-free. We do not incorporate barley, malts, rye, spelt, or wheat in our cider.

3. Are Your Ciders Kosher?

Although we are not certified Kosher, Heavy Branch Cidery's production equipment is dedicated to crafting only premium, ultra-dry, hard ciders.

4. Are Your Ciders Vegan Friendly?

Heavy Branch Cidery does not use animal or dairy products in the making of our ciders.

5. How Does Heavy Branch Cidery Promote Responsible Enjoyment?

Heavy Branch Cidery takes pride in continuing our family tradition by crafting premium ultra-dry ciders for responsible
and thoughtful adult enjoyment. We restrict minors from accessing our website and do not offer marketing sponsorships to underage consumers. Additionally, we strictly adhere to all relevant federal and state laws governing alcohol. Lastly, we are a proud member of the industry trade group Responsibility.org.