One of things I like about the annual Hollow Jack pumpkin cider from 2 Towns Ciderhouse is that each year, the cidery releases a different recipe. The base is the same: fresh-pressed apples and heirloom pumpkins. What makes this year’s version stand out is that it’s seasoned with chai spices.

I posted the details in the press release here, and 2 Towns sent me samples to review. It’s 6.5% ABV, and the website description says:

Jack is back, and he’s feeling spicier than ever! Brimming with NW apples, fresh boiled pumpkin, and a blend of chai spices, this year’s Hollow Jack is an ode to the flavors of fall.

There’s no mention of what spices went into the chai blend, but a typical blend might start with cardamom and then incorporate other pumpkin-friendly spices, including cinnamon and cloves, star anise and others.

Let’s get to my review.

Appearance: Gold with a tinge of orange, unfiltered, and fizzy on the pour (semi-active).

Smell: Spices are rich and warming, full of chai-inflected pie spice notes. There’s some caramelized apple, with a slight tang of fresh-pressed cider.

Taste: Semi-sweet with browned apple, and some roasted squash flavors. The spices bring a slight tannic quality but they are moderate and don’t overpower the fruit. It’s got a rich note, perhaps some caramelization on the pumpkin, and a good balance overall.

Mouthfeel: There’s a slight tannic quality, with semi-active carbonation; it’s crisp and semi-sweet with a hint of dryness going into the finish.

Overall: Quite good, with a great level of pumpkin and spice flavor.

It’s another winner, and Hollow Jack remains my favorite pumpkin cider. Be sure to pick some up this season!