In the landscapes of Olalla, Washington, nestled in Kitsap County, Spin Cider introduces an exceptional offering for the cider enthusiasts and the casually curious alike: the Sammamish River Trail. Crafted with a meticulous blend of bittersweet and bittersharp cider apples, this cider promises a journey of taste that mirrors the scenic beauty and calm of its namesake trail, stretching from Lake Washington through Woodinville’s wineries to Redmond.
This review comes from a delightful opportunity to sample a bottle provided by Spin Cider. This ensured an exploration of new releases with the informative perspective desired by potential buyers.
Spin Cider’s Story
Spin Cider, born from Cathie and her partner’s inspiration during a biking adventure in Vermont, is a testament to the harmonious intersection of passion for cycling and cider-making. Their commitment shines through in the Sammamish River Trail cider, where every sip reflects the craftsmanship of using freshly pressed juice from a blend of cider and dessert apples, a dedication to aging without filtering, and a touch of their very own apple brandy to enhance the flavors.
It’s their homage to tradition with a promise of quality, only achieved through small batch production, sourcing the best fruits from Yakima and Oregon, or growing them on their nascent orchard.
The Experience
Upon pouring, the Sammamish River Trail cider greets you with a light gold hue, bubbling with low carbonation and emitting an inviting aroma of tart heirloom apples. The first sip reveals a semi-dry, light-bodied experience, balanced with a moderate tartness, a hint of acidity, and a whisper of bitterness, rounded off with subtle tannins. This cider abstains from sour or funky notes, instead opting for a refreshing blend of complex heirloom apples paired with undercurrents of lemon and floral notes, culminating in a satisfying tart finish.
It echoes the characteristics of Whitewood’s Jonathan cider but claims its unique stance with slightly more complexity and a less sweet profile. As a closing note, Spin Cider’s Sammamish River Trail emerges as a delightful contender for an everyday cider choice, offering a refined upgrade from the typical multipack selections in Western Washington, the cider capital. Its allure lies in its flavor and the story and craftsmanship behind every bottle, making Spin Cider a noteworthy addition to any cider lover’s collection.
