[Aomori Prefecture] Which cider is recommended? We actually tried them all!

cider , an alcoholic drink made from apples, is gaining attention. There are a wide variety of ciders, from fruity sweet to dry, authentic. This time, I, a local, have personally tasted and compared the different varieties and will introduce three that I particularly recommend! You're sure to find the perfect cider for you.

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Aomori cider is hot! Learn why it's so popular

Aomori cider is truly love for apples . 100% of the apples used are from the prefecture, and the flavor varies greatly depending on the variety and production method. For example, cider made with sweet, sour, and juicy varieties is fruity and approachable, making it easy for women to drink. Conversely, using varieties with a strong astringency and acidity results in a deep flavor like wine. Aomori Prefecture is the top producer of apples in Japan, and about 50 varieties are cultivated there. It is precisely because Aomori knows apples inside and out that the variety and flavor of its ciders are exceptional.

Unlike beer or whiskey, cider is made without grains, so it contains zero purines and is gluten-free. One bottle (750ml) of cider contains four to five apples, so it's also good for your skin

Perfect as a gift

Another appealing feature of Aomori cider is its stylishness. The sophisticated designs of the bottles and labels make it a perfect souvenir or gift. With a low alcohol content of 2-9%, it's an easy gift even for those who don't like alcohol. It's becoming increasingly popular both within and outside the prefecture as a souvenir that combines "Aomori-ness" with "good taste." If you're thinking, "Apple juice is a bit too ordinary, but I'd like to give a souvenir related to apples," or "I'm having trouble finding a gift for someone who doesn't like sweet things," why not give Aomori cider as a gift?

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3 ciders recommended by locals! We actually tried them out and compared them

This time, I actually tasted and compared different ciders and will introduce three that I personally recommend

• Tugboat Co., Ltd. "Crazy Cider"
• Nikka Hirosaki "Nama Cider"
• Tamura Farm "Tamura Cider"
• Hirosaki Cider Factory "kimori"
• Hirosaki Meishu Co., Ltd. "Hirosaki Castle Shidol"

1. Tugboat Co., Ltd. "Crazy Cider"

Crazy Cider, made in Hirakawa City . It's a bottle packed with the charm of apples from Aomori Prefecture.

" Crazy Cider Dry " has a punchy flavor that's unusual for a cider. It's not too sweet, and although it has a bitter and astringent taste, it's not unpleasant. You can also taste the natural sweetness of the apples, so even alcohol lovers should be satisfied. The alcohol content is 7%, which is about the same as canned chuhai, or maybe a little higher. It goes down smoothly and is crisp, so it seems like it would go well with meat dishes.

Crazy Cider SWEET is more refreshing than I expected. I've always thought of cider as something sweet, but even SWEET can have such a sharp taste. It's sweet yet refreshing, so it seems like it could be enjoyed in any situation. I felt that it has an authentic taste that can be enjoyed not only by those who like alcohol, but also by those who don't like it.

2. Hirosaki Cider Factory "kimori"

Next on our list is " kimori " in Hirosaki City. This cider factory is located in Hirosaki Apple Park and uses apples carefully grown by local farmers.

" Kimori Dry " has an alcohol content of 6%. It has a moderate acidity and a crisp, dry taste. Although it lacks impact compared to Crazy Cider's dry version, it is perfect as a drink with food. It is especially compatible with salty snacks such as cheese and prosciutto, so it is recommended to enjoy it with a meal. It has a slightly bitter and astringent taste, but it is not noticeable when paired with food.

On the other hand, " Kimori Sweet " has a sweetness similar to apple juice. With an alcohol content of 3%, the sweet version is recommended for those who don't like alcohol and for women. The carbonation is not too strong, so it seems like it would be easy to drink after a meal.

Both drinks are made from whole apples, so the ingredients will settle to the bottom of the bottle. Please turn the bottle upside down gently before drinking

3. Tamura Farm "Tamura Cider 2nd"

Tamura Cider 2ND produced by Tamura Farm . As it is made by an apple farmer in Hirosaki City, it is recommended for those who want to drink cider casually.

First of all, the distinctive feature of " Tamura Cider 2nd Dry " is its rich aroma, which makes you think it's packed with tropical fruits. The aroma is sweet, but when you drink it, it has a sour taste and is not as sweet as you might expect. The alcohol content is 5%, which is lower than other dry ciders and very easy to drink. It has almost no distinctive alcoholic aroma, so I can confidently recommend it to those new to alcohol.

Tamura Cider 2nd Sweet has the same fruity aroma as the Dry. This cider has a gentle sweetness that matches the aroma. It's not as sweet as apple juice, but it has a clean aftertaste, so it seems to go well with lean dishes. With an alcohol content of 3%, it's perfect for when you want to relax. It's also a low-priced cider, so it's great for everyday use.

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summary

Although Aomori Cider is an apple drink, each sip is imbued with the nature of Aomori and the passion of the artisans. With a wide range of flavors, from fruity sweet to deep dry, both beginners and connoisseurs are sure to enjoy it

In addition to the ciders introduced here, there are many other ciders in Aomori, so why not try comparing them? When you visit Aomori, be sure to find your favorite cider!

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