By Kerry Cyganiewicz

Angry Orchard offers a number of ciders in the 5% ABV range. All taste of sweet apple and are quite drinkable ~ think spiked apple juice. A traditional farmhouse cider is usually much higher in alcohol and less sweet, with a distinct flavor profile influenced by the variety of apple and the method used to ferment and age the cider.

According to Angry Orchard, “For centuries, farmhouse cider-making has been a tradition celebrated by farmers in the English and French countryside. Strawman combines a distinct blend of juices from traditional culinary and bittersweet apples, which is then aged in oak. The result is a full-flavored, complex and balanced cider with wine-like characteristics, rounded out by apple and citrus notes. Its lingering, earthy finish is a homage to the origins of this unique cider. “

Here is my take on it:
Appearance: Golden honey in color. The small head disappears despite violent carbonation.
Aroma: Oak and tart apple notes dominate.
Taste: Leather, oak, apple and warm alcohol. Lingering aftertaste of warm oak and warmth from the alcohol.
Mouthfeel: Very light; if not for the alcohol, it would be extremely drinkable
Overall: Strawman reminded me of a fruity chardonnay. I drank one glass alone and one glass with a meal. It paired well with a rosemary pork loin. This is a good compromise for a wine drinker and a beer drinker to share the same beverage.