The California Cider Co. 'Ace' Joker Dry Hard Cider, Sonoma County, California

The California Cider Co.'s 'Ace' Joker Dry Hard Cider, Sonoma County, California, offers a crisp, sparkling expression of California apple orchards, blending traditional cider-making with a champagne-like refinement. Its dry, brut-style character highlights the purity of apple flavors while delivering a refreshingly clean and effervescent experience.

Product Details:

• Cider: Joker Dry Hard Cider
• Producer: The California Cider Company
• Owner: Jeffrey House
• Cider Maker: Jeffrey House
• Region: Sonoma County, California, USA
• ABV: 6.9%
• Residual Sugar: 3g per 12oz
• Carbs: 3g per 12oz
• Fermentation: Double fermentation with Champagne yeast
• Closure: Crown Cap
• Farming Practices: Conventional

Sensory Description:

The cider pours a pale, straw-gold color with a fine, lively sparkle reminiscent of Champagne. On the nose, delicate aromas of fresh-cut apple, light citrus zest, and subtle yeast notes emerge. The palate delivers a crisp, bone-dry character with bright green apple, hints of pear, and a clean mineral finish. A touch of tart acidity balances the light fruit sweetness, while the Champagne yeast lends an elegant effervescence that lingers gracefully on the palate.

Producer's Background:

Founded in 1993 by British cider enthusiast Jeffrey House, The California Cider Company (Ace Cider) is among the first craft cideries established on the West Coast. Based in Sebastopol, Sonoma County—a region renowned for its apples—Ace Cider draws upon local orchards and European cider-making traditions to craft a diverse range of high-quality ciders. With its commitment to innovation and approachability, Ace has played a vital role in popularizing cider in America, offering both classic and creative flavor profiles that appeal to a wide audience of cider lovers.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well-chilled at 6–8°C in a Champagne flute or tulip glass to highlight its sparkling finesse. Ideal food pairings include fresh oysters, grilled shrimp, sushi rolls, roasted chicken, goat cheese salads, and light vegetable pastas. Its clean profile also complements salty snacks like Marcona almonds or prosciutto-wrapped melon.

The California Cider Co. 'Ace' Joker Dry Hard Cider stands as a vibrant and elegant representation of American cider-making, delivering Champagne-inspired sparkle and California freshness in every glass.