scrumpy

On my sister gaoo's recommendation, The Fella picked up a big bottle of J.K. Scrumpy hard cider for me to sample. I'm a well-known lightweight, given to wide-eyed staring and whispered pronouncements of "I'm a teeny bit drunk!" after a drink or two, so I tried to persuade him to split the big bottle with me, but no go. I think it's just possible he likes to get me sauced.

Bravely soldiering on, I guzzled the whole lot down on my own, smacking my lips the whole time. Nuanced online reviews of peppery backnotes and smooth finish notwithstanding, I have this to say about Scrumpy: it tastes like non-alcoholic sparkling cider, but, uh, not non-alcoholic.

It's crisp but quite sweet with a boozy little kick, and ridiculously drinkable.

I drank it with a supper of rumbledethumps* with spicy salsa, and it suited that humble dish down to the ground, complementing the earthy flavors while its round, fruity smack balanced the sting of the chiles. I think it might go even better with something slightly sweet and fatty, like a squash pizza. On this first tasting, I found it uncomplicated, but be assured that I'll endure many, many future tastings to be sure.

Incidentally, to scrump = to steal apples.

Also, "scrumpy" is a perfect word to giggle over when you're lolling about on the sofa after two drinks.

*Around here, that's potatoes, cheese, and broccoli, not cabbage.

I am participating in NaBloPoMo. Still!