Discover a selection of the best ciders tasted last year

Following a db ‘blind’ tasting of ciders last year, here is a selection of some of the best ciders that turned judge’s heads.

The ciders featured in this selection were taken from entries to the 2022 Global Cider Masters. Each entrant put forward commercially available samples of which they were most proud, representing new and exciting bottles or variants, including alcohol-free ciders along with the latest styles across categories from traditional orchard fruits through to modern and flavoured options. All the samples were assessed blind in November 2022 and the full results of the tasting are featured in the January edition of the drinks business. Below, should you wish to seek them out, are the ciders that most captivated the judges during the tasting. 

Valverán 20 Manzanas

Amber in colour, with rich dates and with a textured body and a long finish that keeps you dipping back in. Indulgent and with layers of complexity. Its body has a rich and spicy plummy dept that lingers.

Style: Ice cider

Country: Spain

ABV: 10.5%

RRP: Approx £12

Henry Westons Vintage

An inviting cider with a good balance between sweet and sour acidity on the nose.  Golden and easy-drinking with a soft gentle ride through to the finish. Dangerously moreish.

Style: Traditional/West Country

Country: UK

ABV: 8.2%

RRP: Approx £2

Thatchers Blood Orange

Bright and appealingly refreshing. Well-balanced. Juicy aromatics are at play here. Bold and with a sweet fruity satisfying finish.

Style: Flavoured

Country: UK

ABV: 4%

RRP: Approx £2.20

Stowford Press 0.5% Low Alcohol

Presents well and has lifts of acidity and gentle subtle carbonation and a well-crafted pleasant long finish.

Style: No/Low alcohol

Country: UK

ABV: 0.5%

RRP: Approx £1.50

Armagh Medium Craft Cider

Golden and with a funky refreshing edge to it and a wild character. Well-balanced and with a long enduring finish.

Style: Modern style

Country: Northern Ireland

ABV: 4.5%

RRP: Approx £1.99