Product Review: Cranes Cranberry Cider

Twins Ben and Dan Ritsema are the guys behind Cranes, who are most well-known for producing a cranberry-based liqueur (which we shall need to review at a later date!) in Cambridgeshire. Now they are producing a cider that is a bit different from other ciders out there. Why so? Because these are made from a base of cranberries and apples rather than just apples. This makes it not only a vibrant looking cider but also one which has 30% fewer calories due to using natural fruit sugars.

The Cranes Cider comes in three flavours. Cranberries and limes; blueberries and apples; and raspberries and pomegranates. Each one using the cranberry and apple cider base.

I'm generally more of a dry cider fan, the mainstream ciders are a bit too sweet for me. So let's crack them open, with Mr Foodie and Mr C for a taste test.

Cranes Cider Cranberries and Lime - crisp and refreshing, definite cranberry taste there with a tart background from the lime. Mr Foodie couldn't believe that the drink was alcoholic, whereas Mr C commented that it wasn't as sweet as a lot of ciders on the market.

Cranes Cider Blueberries and Apples - Good blueberry aroma but the taste wasn't as strong but still a thumbs up here.

Cranes Cider Raspberries and Pomegranates - The raspberry calmed the sourness of the pomegranate. Another soft and fruity drink. We all agreed that this was the sweetest out of the three tasted. An easy to drink cider, the sweetness might be overbearing after a little while with this flavour.

These would be perfect for a summer evening, sitting in the garden with some friends and a BBQ. We all agreed that the cider was perfect on its straight from a fridge. No need to top up with ice. None of the ciders are fizzy / gassy.

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