If you know anything about Australian drinks, you’ve probably heard the name Bundaberg. Arguably the most famous drink produced by this Queensland company based in – you guessed it the town of Bundaberg – is their ginger beer (which is, to be fair, very tasty). But that’s not all they do. And Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider is a fairly recent addition to the stable.
The company is a soft drinks manufacturer, but with what I suppose you could call a ‘craft’ edge. It’s mass market, but not of the ‘fill this gloop with sugar and be done with it’ brigade. Indeed, they take pride in the fact that this NA cider is made with 70% apple juice and that the brewing process takes a full two days.
Which is all very interesting; but how does it actually taste?
Appearance
Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider pours a deep amber. It’s a colour that does suggest a beverage with depth and character and makes one think that perhaps that focus on premium ingredients and multi-day processing actually pays dividends. Unlike some lighter, more translucent non-alcoholic ciders, this one’s appearance certainly nods at the natural apple juice content.
The cider’s effervescence is gentle yet persistent, with a steady stream of bubbles. There’s little head to speak of on the pour but at least it’s not over-fizzy as many soft drinks can be.
Aroma
The aroma of Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider is, as you might expect, very fruit forward. There’s lots of Granny Smith and Royal Gala apples front and centre on the nose, although supported by hints of honey in the background.
Keep sniffing and you might detect a faint whiff of caramel or even vanilla, but generally you’re getting a good nasal wallop of the orchard.
One thing to add would be that for those seeking a more traditional, drier cider nose, they might find this aromatic profile leaning slightly towards the sweeter side, but not sickeningly so.
Taste
As on the nose, the first sip of Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider is going to give you a one-two of juicy apple flavour in the form of Granny Smith and Royal Gala apples. So there’s the tarter Grannies and the sweeter Galas playing off for your tastebuds’ attention. With the addition of caramel notes, the sweetness does tend to win out, but, as mentioned, it’s not overpoweringly sugary. Perhaps that slow brewing process really does help ensure that each flavour is well-integrated.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel is smooth, crisp, and pleasantly effervescent. It is quite a light-feeling drink, although the touch of viscosity that remains does mean it is a little more satisfying than some NA ciders on the market. While some might wish for a bit more complexity or structure, overall, the mouthfeel enhances the cider’s refreshing quality,
Finish
The finish of Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider is clean, crisp and slightly sweet. The natural acidity of the Granny Smith apples lingers, meaning tartness comes to balance the initial sweetness. This helps ensure that the cider never feels overly sweet.
As the apple flavours fade, again a subtle hint of honey may come through. But these balancing notes are a bit too subtle to counteract the fruit. So traditional cider enthusiasts may miss the longer, more complex finish associated with alcoholic options. However, the strength of the fruit flavour is undeniable.
Pairing Suggestions
This non-alcoholic cider’s natural sweetness means it will balance well with tart cheeses and citrus-y salads. I think the subtle note of vanilla it contains would mean that you could serve it alongside a panna cotta, or similar. But generally, I would see this as more of a stand-alone drink, for when you want that distinctive fruity cider taste without the booze.
Overall Impressions of Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider
Bundaberg Brewed Apple Cider stands out as a really pleasant non-alcoholic option. I’ve always enjoyed the chance to have one of their ginger beers. But if this was on the menu as well, I wouldn’t be disappointed. While a touch sweet, it is pretty well balanced. And it packs a fruity punch. Apparently, it is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, so lots of people can enjoy it. I know I did.