Hard cider has exploded in popularity, moving way beyond the basic stuff. It’s a great alternative if you are gluten-free or want something different from beer or wine. The best way to explore all the variety is with a cider subscription box. These services deliver curated selections right to your door, introducing you to craft ciders you might never find on your own, and I’m here to share my top picks.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Original Craft Beer Club Cider Subscription: Best for variety and discovering new cider styles.
- Craft Cider Club by Monthly Clubs: Great for cider lovers who appreciate detailed tasting notes.
- Tavour Craft Beer Delivery: Excellent for trying ciders from independent breweries worldwide (cider selection varies).
- Half Time Beverage Superstore – Cider of the Month Club: Perfect for customizing your cider preferences.
- Plonk Wine Club (Select Cider Options): Ideal for organic and biodynamic cider enthusiasts.
Top 5 Best Cider Subscription Box Reviews
1. Original Craft Beer Club Cider Subscription
The Original Craft Beer Club isn’t just about beer; they have a fantastic cider option too! This subscription focuses on delivering high-quality, unique ciders from independent craft producers across the US. Each shipment includes a variety of styles, from dry to sweet, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Pros:
- ✅ Wide variety of cider styles in each shipment.
- ✅ Focus on independent and craft cider producers.
- ✅ Informative newsletter with details about each cider and the cidery.
Cons:
- ❌ Cider selection can be limited compared to beer options.
- ❌ Not ideal if you only prefer a specific type of cider (e.g., only dry).
- ❌ Availability may depend on your location.
Verdict: If you’re open to exploring a wide range of craft ciders and enjoy learning about the cider-making process, this is an excellent choice.
2. Craft Cider Club by Monthly Clubs
Craft Cider Club specializes in delivering exceptional ciders from around the world. What sets them apart is their attention to detail. Each shipment includes detailed tasting notes, cidery profiles, and serving suggestions, making it a complete cider-tasting experience. I’ve found their tasting notes to be surprisingly accurate, helping me really understand what I’m drinking.
Pros:
- ✅ Detailed tasting notes and cidery information included.
- ✅ Ciders sourced from both domestic and international producers.
- ✅ Focus on high-quality, artisanal ciders.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be pricier than other cider subscription options.
- ❌ Might not be the best choice if you prefer to just drink cider without reading about it.
- ❌ Selection might lean towards more traditional cider styles.
Verdict: This subscription is perfect for cider enthusiasts who appreciate in-depth information and want to expand their knowledge of cider-making.
3. Tavour Craft Beer Delivery
Tavour is primarily a craft beer delivery service, but they often have a selection of interesting ciders available. The way Tavour works is unique: they offer beers and ciders from independent breweries, and you can choose what you want to include in your box. It’s a great way to discover ciders from breweries you might not otherwise have access to.
Pros:
- ✅ Option to customize your box with specific ciders you want to try.
- ✅ Access to ciders from independent breweries worldwide.
- ✅ Opportunity to discover rare and limited-release ciders.
Cons:
- ❌ Cider selection can be inconsistent and limited.
- ❌ Requires more effort to curate your box compared to curated subscriptions.
- ❌ Shipping costs can add up if you order frequently.
Verdict: If you enjoy the thrill of discovery and want to try ciders from unique, independent breweries, Tavour is a great option, just be aware that their cider selection isn’t always consistent.
4. Half Time Beverage Superstore – Cider of the Month Club
Half Time Beverage is a well-known beverage retailer, and their Cider of the Month Club offers a customizable experience. You can specify your cider preferences (e.g., dry, sweet, flavored) to ensure you receive ciders you’ll enjoy. This level of personalization is a big plus if you have specific tastes.
Pros:
- ✅ Customizable cider preferences.
- ✅ Access to a wide range of cider brands and styles.
- ✅ Option to choose the frequency of your shipments.
Cons:
- ❌ The selection might not be as curated as other subscription boxes.
- ❌ Can be overwhelming to choose from a large selection.
- ❌ May not focus as heavily on small, independent cideries.
Verdict: This club is ideal if you have specific cider preferences and want a more hands-on approach to selecting your ciders.
5. Plonk Wine Club (Select Cider Options)
Plonk Wine Club focuses on organic and biodynamic wines, but they sometimes offer select cider options that align with their focus on natural and sustainable beverages. If you’re passionate about organic and biodynamic products, this could be a good way to discover ciders made with similar principles.
Pros:
- ✅ Focus on organic and biodynamic ciders.
- ✅ Unique and hard-to-find cider selections.
- ✅ Opportunity to support sustainable cider production.
Cons:
- ❌ Cider selection is limited and not always available.
- ❌ Primarily a wine club, so cider is a secondary focus.
- ❌ May be more expensive than other cider subscription options.
Verdict: If you prioritize organic and biodynamic beverages and are open to exploring unique cider options when available, Plonk Wine Club could be a good fit.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cider subscription box depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Here are a few things to consider:
- Cider Style: Do you prefer dry, sweet, flavored, or traditional ciders? Some subscriptions offer more variety than others.
- Cidery Focus: Are you interested in supporting small, independent cideries, or are you open to larger brands?
- Customization: Do you want to be able to customize your box, or do you prefer a curated selection?
- Information: Do you appreciate detailed tasting notes and cidery information, or do you prefer to just enjoy the cider?
- Price: Cider subscription boxes vary in price, so consider your budget.
- Shipping: Check the shipping costs and availability to your location. Some subscriptions may not ship to all states.
Think about what’s most important to you in a cider subscription, and then choose the box that best meets your needs. Don’t be afraid to try a few different subscriptions to find your favorite.
FAQs
Q: How much does a cider subscription box cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the subscription, but you can generally expect to pay between $30 and $60 per month, plus shipping.
Q: Can I cancel my cider subscription at any time?
A: Most cider subscription services allow you to cancel your subscription at any time, but be sure to check the terms and conditions before signing up.
Q: Are cider subscription boxes a good gift?
A: Yes! A cider subscription box makes a great gift for any cider lover. It’s a unique and thoughtful way to introduce them to new ciders and support craft producers.
Q: What if I don’t like a particular cider in the box?
A: Unfortunately, most cider subscription services don’t offer refunds or replacements for individual ciders that you don’t like. However, you can always share it with a friend or family member!
Q: Do cider subscription boxes require a signature upon delivery?
A: Some services do, due to alcohol shipping regulations. Check with the specific company to confirm their policy.
Conclusion
Exploring the world of hard cider through a subscription box is a fun and convenient way to discover new flavors and support craft cider makers. Whether you’re a seasoned cider aficionado or just starting your cider journey, there’s a subscription box out there for you. Consider your preferences, budget, and desired level of customization, and get ready to enjoy a delicious selection of ciders delivered right to your door. Cheers!
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