Introducing: Woodchuck® Cellar Series Chocolate

January 9, 2014
Chocolate Cellar Series

We here at Woodchuck Hard Cider have been pioneering American cider for 23 years now.  It’s been a journey and we trace our history through the different ciders we have handcrafted.  Innovation and experimentation are woven into the fabric of Woodchuck.

It is in this spirit that we introduce to you, (just in time for Valentine’s Day!), one of the most unique ciders we have ever crafted: Woodchuck Cellar Series Chocolate.  It is the third cider released from our Cellar Series line.

Woodchuck’s original small batch hard cider, featuring Vermont culinary apple varieties such as McIntosh and late season Northern Spy, was aged with crushed cocao beans.  Cocao beans, or nibs, are the starting point from which chocolate is produced.

chocolate process 2

Crushed cocao beans arrive at the cidery.

The infusion of the cocao nibs bring notes of artisan chocolate throughout the nose and taste of the cider.  A hint of caramel accompanies the dry finish, as does a full apple flavor.

chocolate process 1

Adding cocao nibs to the extraction tank.

“The use of crushed cocao nibs allowed for this cider to showcase chocolate’s true character,” says Cider Maker John Matson.  “The infusion of the beans brought out those strong natural chocolate notes, without the sweetness found in a chocolate bar.  The balance of the apple against the cocao creates a truly distinctive tasting experience.  I am thrilled with the result and hope our fans are too.”

chocolate bottles

Bottles of Cellar Series Chocolate being run through the pasteurizer.

Cellar Series Chocolate is pasteurized and featured in a 22oz bottle.  Alcohol by volume (ABV) is 6.9%.  It is shipping now nationwide and will be on store shelves through February.

choloate labels

Chocolate labels waiting to be applied to the 22oz bottle.

Have a special somebody you are looking to give some chocolate this Valentine’s Day??  Why not give them the gift of Chocolate cider!!  To find it near you visit our Cider Locator.

 

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