Growing the Orchard

Matt’s segments for “Connoisseur’s Corner” usually air on WBZ (1030 AM) Saturdays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25, and 11:55 AM and Sundays at 7:25, 8:25, 9:25 AM.

Recent samples can be found at https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1002-Connoisseurs-Corner-28654273/.

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Thanks for listening and thanks for supporting our friends and neighbors in the food-service industry!

As cider fan, I am always on the lookout for new flavors and ideas.

Among my recent finds have been the foraged favorites at Left Bank in Hudson, NY, the strawberry rhubarb cider from Hudson North (which, as the name implies, is a bit north of Hudson and to the right of Left Bank) and the authentic apple pie can from Nine Pin in Albany. I have also found great ciders from Spain, Seattle, the Texas twosome of Locust and Austin Eastciders, and of course, the great VT varieties from Shacksbury, Stowe, and Champlain.

Closer to home, I have always found cidered satisfaction in Sam Adams’ Angry Orchard. With a menu of over 10 hand-crafred styles, they seem to have something for every taste and mood. Having started with their signature Crisp Apple, Angry Orchard has grown in recent years by introducing an unfiltered option and also by using green and rose apples and even pears. Just recently, the Orchard contined to add to the fruits of its labors by adding ginger, peach mango and strawberry to the luscious line.

Despite all this great variety and the high quality of every AO offering, the one I am most excited about this season is the limited edition cinnamon cider called Cinnful Cider. Combining the familiar flavors of apples with the sharp bite of cinnamon and hints of hot cocoa, Cinnful has a warming flavor that is perfect for days that can start out comfortable but then bite in a way that lets you know you’re alive. And if Angry Orchard is available, consider yourself lucky!

www.AngryOrchard.com