My latest article for The Bulletin is cider-focused with the spotlight on Avid Cider Company, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year. Avid marks the occasion with a branding refresh and a new imperial cider, Royal Apricot.

Royal Apricot joins Golden Delish in the cidery’s Imperial Series, with 8.5% alcohol by volume (contrasted to the regular lineup of about 6% ABV). The company describes it as having “refreshing flavors of pressed golden apricots” for a tart character. It’s an imperial twist on an old favorite.

“Our classic Apricot cider, which was produced for years, was always an employee and fan favorite,” said [CEO and owner Sam] Roberts. “We decided to take that recipe and make the imperialized Royal Apricot version to keep up with consumer demand.”

I’d received samples of Royal Apricot and Blackberry along with the press release last month, so also posted my review notes in the article for both ciders. Blackberry is paler than it used to be, and Royal Apricot has some nice apricot character. But check out the article for my full thoughts.