COMPARATIVE LIT ESSAY:
Today I am comparing the big three European brands trying to use their old-world charm to break into, and conquer, the American cider market. They are powerhouses in their respective markets (though if you’ve spent time in the UK you know that the targeted clientele of Strongbow is a bit different and more bougie in the US). And while Stella is obviously known more for its beer and the other two are cider houses perched across the Irish Sea from each other, all three have good distributers and a head start on most American cider makers. All three are good, but undoubtedly there are Yankee craft options that are better. But many times these are the only options at the cider fridge or when out and about, so we need to put the big three European powerhouses to the comparative test.
When breaking them down, Cidre is tarter, sweeter and more full-bodied than the other two, where Strongbow has more glass appeal, is more apply on the nose and is the crispest. Finally, Magners has the most unique flavor with its multiple crisp varietals and being ever-so-slightly tannic. So, what’s your mood? If you want a sweeter, fuller mouthfeel with some tartness, go with the Stella. But if you want a proper European dry cider with a bit more nuance then you should go with Magners, which is clearly better than Strongbow. As I scored the Cidre and Magners the same, I am going to cheat and announce a joint-winner this time. Or maybe it is hard for me to keep my historical sentimentality and biases in check—see individual reviews.