Now this is more like it.

Bitter Sweet Funk Dry Cider by Oliver’s Cider and Perry of Herefordshire, UK is funky, phenolic, and still.  Imported by Shelton Brothers, which also imports Ross-On-Wye and Hogan’s, this is a farmhouse cider fermented by wild yeast, aged in barrels and blended.

It’s astringent and slightly bitter, with a fair amount of barnyard funk from the wild yeast. This will be my go-to reference example of the ‘band-aid’ flavor imparted by phenols, as it is quite apparent in this cider.

There is some perceived tannic grit in the aftertaste, which is interesting and complex, though honestly it can be a bit much if you’re not in the mood to be challenged. This is a slow, complex sipper that takes some time to unfold on your palate and in your mind. I highly recommended it.

Check out Harvest Radio Network’s  interview of Tom Oliver, Bittersweet Funk’s creator, for more information about traditional, Herefordshire cider-making techniques, Oliver’s Cider & Perry, and Shelton Brothers–it’s well worth a listen.

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