Schlafly Announces A Cider Collaboration

We don't necessarily review ciders on the site (370+ reviews so far and not one cider) but when the largest local craft brewery decides to put out a limited-release sampler pack of four specialty ciders, by golly we're interested. Schlafly collaborated with Devon, England-based Sandford Orchards to make these  specialty ciders, known as Proper Cider. The ciders will be sold in four-packs of 500 ml bottles and will include Dry-Hopped, Scrumpy (classic), Vintage Cask and Raspberry ciders.

The Proper Cider pack is an example of our longstanding relationship at Schlafly Beer with not only farmers, but brewers and cider markers across the world. These ciders showcase the proper English methods and ingredients to produce a perfectly balanced, dry cider. - Ambassador Brewer Stephen Hale

This collaboration actually came about in an unusual manner. Schlafly Co-founder Dan Kopman met Sanford Orchards owner Barny Butterfield on a train in the English countryside during travels abroad. These ciders share the extensive knowledge of both partners as the Dry Hopped version of the cider proves (Schlafly was one of the first industry-wide to practice dry-hopping beers).

The Proper Cider pack includes the following:

Dry-Hopped: For a little body and boost of unexpected flavor, this sparkling cider is dry-hopped with Ella hops from Australia, elevating the apple’s naturally pleasant profile.

Scrumpy: This is a classic. Fermented from fresh apple juice and wild yeasts, it is lightly carbonated, slightly cloudy, with a medium body and full flavor.

Vintage Cask: Grown, pressed, and bottled in Devonshire, England, this rich and powerful style is improved by aging in 100-year-old mighty oak vat where it develops complexity and depth.

Raspberry: Delicate and blushing pink, this cask cider boasts the slight tartness of ripe raspberries, a pleasing citrus kick, and a rounded sweetness.

The Proper Cider pack will be available while supplies last and will not be available on draft. The four-pack has a suggested retail value of $17.99, and will be available across Schlafly’s distribution area. For more on the brewery’s distribution and products, visit
www.schlafly.com/beers/distribution.

Cheers!