EatingWell Taste Test: Hard Cider

By Carolyn Malcoun, "Ciders to Sip," September/October 2010

How hard apple cider is making its comeback.

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4 Hard Ciders to Try

We sampled 10 hard ciders that are available in at least 20 states. Here are our four favorites—look for them at stores with a good selection of microbrews. Hard ciders have a similar calorie range to beer. Most hard ciders are gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with celiac disease, but some aren’t, so be sure to check the label for “gluten-free.”

Ace Joker Hard Cider
6.9% ABV* | 135 calories** | GF***
Light and slightly dry, with a nice balance of tart and sweet.

Crispin Natural Hard Apple Cider Original
5% ABV | 170 calories | GF
Three words: Apple Jolly Rancher.

Hornsby’s Hard Cider Amber Draft
6% ABV | 170 calories
Smells like a Golden Delicious apple with a mellow sweetness.

Woodpecker Premium Cider
4.2% ABV | 150 calories
Reminded several of the tasters of an apple-flavored sparkling wine.

*Alcohol by volume
**Per 12-ounce serving
***Gluten-free

Delicious ways to pair healthy food & hard cider. »