Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old

Unveiling Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old: A Detailed Tasting Experience

Hailing from the rolling hills of Somerset, England, Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old is a spirit that captures the essence of the British countryside. Crafted from 100% Somerset apples, this brandy undergoes a meticulous process of distillation and maturation in oak casks for five years, resulting in a complex and flavourful spirit.

A Journey Through the Senses

Nose:

The first impression upon encountering Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old is an inviting aroma. Sweet apple notes reminiscent of freshly pressed cider mingle with hints of vanilla and baking spice. Subtle oaky undertones add a touch of complexity, hinting at the spirit's time spent in casks.

Palate:

The initial sip delivers a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. The apple character takes centre stage, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavours. Hints of apple crumble, with its warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes, emerge alongside a touch of honeyed sweetness. The oak influence becomes more apparent on the palate, adding a subtle tannic structure and hints of vanilla and caramel.

Finish:

The finish is long and warming, lingering on the palate with a gentle heat from the 42% ABV. The apple and spice notes gradually fade, leaving a touch of oak and a hint of dark chocolate in their wake.

Beyond the Basics: Unpacking the Flavour Profile

Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old boasts a rich flavour profile that caters to a variety of palates. Let's delve deeper into the key characteristics that define this exceptional spirit:

• Apple Forward: The essence of Somerset apples takes centre stage, offering a delightful balance between sweet and tart. Think freshly pressed cider with a touch of orchard fruit character.
• Oak-Aged Complexity: The five-year maturation in oak casks adds a layer of depth and sophistication. Expect hints of vanilla, caramel, and subtle tannins, complementing the apple fruitiness.
• Spiced Warmth: A touch of baking spice, reminiscent of cinnamon and nutmeg, adds a warming character to the brandy, evoking the comforting flavours of apple crumble.
• Smooth and Velvety: The texture of Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old is luxurious and smooth, making it a pleasure to sip and savour.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Experience

Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old is a versatile spirit, perfect for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or as part of a delicious cocktail. Here are some suggestions to elevate your brandy experience:

• Neat: Pour a chilled measure of Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old into a snifter glass and allow it to warm slightly in your hand. Take your time to appreciate the full range of aromas and flavours.
• On the Rocks: For a refreshing twist, serve Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old over a large ice cube. The dilution will slightly mellow the spirit while preserving its character.
• Cocktails: This brandy can be a fantastic base for crafting unique cocktails. Explore recipes that incorporate its apple and spice notes, such as a Somerset Sidecar (replacing Cognac with brandy) or a Spiced Apple Sour.

Food Pairings for a Perfect Harmony

Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions to create a memorable culinary experience:

• Cheese: Enjoy the brandy alongside mature cheddar cheese or a creamy blue cheese. The richness of the cheese complements the brandy's fruit and spice notes.
• Desserts: The apple character of the brandy makes it a perfect partner for desserts like apple pie, tarte tatin, or a rich caramel pudding.
• Charcuterie: Cured meats like prosciutto or chorizo pair well with the brandy's warmth and spice.

A Celebration of British Craftmanship

Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old is a testament to the expertise of British cider makers. This unique spirit offers a sophisticated and flavourful experience, perfect for those seeking to explore the world beyond traditional grape-based brandies.

The General Wine - Your Gateway to Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old

At The General Wine, we are proud to offer Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old amongst our collection of exceptional spirits.  We invite you to embark on a journey of discovery and experience the rich flavour profile of this remarkable brandy. Visit our website or our store in Liphook to explore the world of Somerset Cider Brandy Five Year Old and discover your perfect serve.