MomSkoop
Fall brings many wonderful things, but nothing beats the taste of fresh apple cider. With so many brands filling store shelves, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. We decided to settle this debate once and for all by testing ten popular apple ciders side by side. After careful tasting and comparison, one clear winner emerged from the pack.
1. Pepin Heights Apple Cider – The Clear Winner
Nothing prepared us for the incredible flavor that hit our taste buds with this Minnesota-made treasure. Pepin Heights delivers what every apple cider should be: crisp, naturally sweet, and bursting with authentic apple flavor that tastes like autumn in a bottle.
Each sip reveals layers of complexity from their carefully selected apple varieties. The balance between tartness and sweetness creates a perfect harmony that other brands simply cannot match.
What truly sets this cider apart is its clean finish and natural clarity. No artificial flavors or excessive processing mask the pure apple essence that makes this our undisputed champion.
2. Musselman’s Fresh Pressed Apple Cider
Widely available in grocery stores, Musselman’s offers a solid middle-ground option for everyday cider drinking. The flavor profile leans toward the sweeter side, making it particularly appealing to younger drinkers and those who prefer less tartness in their beverages.
Fresh pressing techniques give this cider a decent apple taste, though it lacks the depth and complexity found in premium brands. The texture feels smooth and easy to drink without any harsh aftertastes.
While not extraordinary, Musselman’s provides consistent quality and reasonable pricing. For families seeking an affordable option that still delivers genuine apple flavor, this choice won’t disappoint anyone looking for basic satisfaction.
3. Martinelli’s Gold Medal Apple Cider
Martinelli’s reputation for quality shines through in every bottle of their famous gold medal cider. California’s premier apple producer brings decades of experience to create a consistently smooth and flavorful drinking experience that rarely disappoints.
The apple selection process results in a well-rounded flavor that appeals to most palates. Sweet notes dominate, but subtle hints of tartness prevent the drink from becoming overly sugary or one-dimensional.
Premium pricing reflects the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients and careful production methods. Though expensive compared to other options, Martinelli’s delivers reliable taste that justifies the extra cost for special occasions and discerning cider enthusiasts.
4. Red Jacket Orchards Apple Cider
Straight from New York’s apple country comes this farm-fresh option that captures the essence of orchard-to-bottle production. Red Jacket Orchards takes pride in using only locally grown apples, resulting in a cider that tastes authentically fresh and seasonal.
Bold apple flavors dominate each sip, with a natural cloudiness that indicates minimal processing and maximum fruit content. The tartness level sits perfectly balanced, creating a refreshing drink that doesn’t overwhelm sensitive palates.
Regional availability limits access for many consumers, but those lucky enough to find it will appreciate the genuine farmhouse quality. This cider represents what small-batch production can achieve when done right.
5. Woodchuck Amber Cider
Venturing into alcoholic territory, Woodchuck Amber offers a completely different cider experience with its fermented apple base and 5% alcohol content. The amber color hints at the more complex flavors that develop through the fermentation process.
Apple characteristics remain present but take on deeper, more mature notes that appeal to adult tastes. The alcohol adds warmth and body without overwhelming the fundamental fruit flavors that make cider special.
Perfect for evening relaxation or social gatherings, this option bridges the gap between traditional cider and craft beer. Adults seeking a sophisticated alternative to regular apple juice will find Woodchuck Amber delivers exactly what they’re looking for in terms of flavor and experience.
6. Strongbow Original Dry Cider
England’s contribution to our tasting brings centuries of cider-making tradition in every crisp, dry sip. Strongbow takes a completely different approach from sweet American ciders, focusing on clean, sharp flavors that refresh rather than satisfy sweet cravings.
The dryness might surprise those accustomed to sweeter varieties, but this characteristic makes Strongbow incredibly food-friendly and less likely to cause palate fatigue. Carbonation adds liveliness that enhances the overall drinking experience.
International appeal and widespread availability make this an accessible option for curious cider drinkers. Those willing to explore beyond traditional sweet profiles will discover why dry ciders have maintained popularity across European markets for generations.
7. Wassail Spiced Apple Cider
Holiday magic comes alive in this beautifully spiced cider that transforms ordinary apple juice into a warming winter treat. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and other traditional spices create an aromatic experience that begins before the first sip even touches your lips.
The spice blend complements rather than masks the apple base, creating harmony between fruit and seasoning. Warmth from the spices makes this particularly enjoyable when served hot on cold days.
Seasonal availability often limits when you can find Wassail, making it feel special and anticipated. This cider excels at creating cozy moments and bringing people together around shared warmth and comfort during the colder months of the year.
8. Angry Orchard Crisp Apple
Mass market appeal meets craft cider sensibilities in this widely available alcoholic option that introduced many Americans to hard cider. Angry Orchard strikes a careful balance between approachable sweetness and genuine apple character that doesn’t alienate newcomers.
Crisp carbonation and moderate alcohol content create a refreshing drinking experience that works well in social settings. The apple flavor remains prominent without becoming artificial or overpowering like some commercial alternatives.
Marketing success has made this brand synonymous with American hard cider, though purists might find it somewhat predictable. For casual drinkers seeking an easy introduction to alcoholic cider, Angry Orchard delivers exactly the right combination of familiarity and quality.
9. Pressed Juicery Spiced Apple Cider
Cold-pressed technology meets traditional cider making in this premium offering that emphasizes health-conscious production methods. Pressed Juicery brings their juice bar expertise to create a cider that feels both indulgent and nutritious at the same time.
Subtle spicing enhances rather than dominates the apple flavors, creating a sophisticated taste profile that appeals to adult palates. The cold-pressed process preserves more nutrients and creates a cleaner, more vibrant flavor than traditional methods.
Premium pricing reflects the quality ingredients and specialized production techniques used throughout the process. Health-conscious consumers will appreciate the attention to nutritional value while still enjoying the comfort and satisfaction that comes from drinking quality spiced cider.
10. Trader Joe’s Spiced Apple Cider
Budget-friendly pricing doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor when you choose this Trader Joe’s exclusive option. Their spiced apple cider delivers surprising quality and taste complexity that rivals much more expensive alternatives available in regular grocery stores.
Warming spices blend seamlessly with decent apple flavors to create a cozy drinking experience perfect for autumn afternoons. The spice level remains gentle enough for sensitive palates while still providing noticeable seasonal character.
Limited availability only at Trader Joe’s locations creates both exclusivity and frustration for fans. Those with access to the store will find this cider represents excellent value for money, proving that quality doesn’t always require premium pricing or fancy packaging.