Cider & Snacks: The Winning Play

For some people, the Superbowl is all about the football and the rituals that go into making sure your team wins. Others pay more attention to the halftime show and the big-budget ads, and maybe check in on the Puppy Bowl now and then. And some have no interest in any of it, choosing to spend the day away from TVs altogether. But there’s one thing all of these people have in common: They’ve gotta eat! 

At Portland Cider, we’re rooting for all of it, as long as there are tasty snacks and lots of cider around. No matter what your plans are on Sunday, you’ll love these winning combos of cider and satisfying snacks.

 

Li’l Smokies and Blueberry Bourbon Basil

Remember the 3-course meal chewing gum in Willy Wonka? We’re not saying this pairing will turn you into a giant blueberry (but what IF?), but a big bite and a big gulp will take you on a chewy, savory, smokey journey with a big blueberry finish. Caution: If you see Oompa-Loompas, maybe sit this quarter out.

 

Loaded Nachos and Imperial Peach Tea

Ooey, gooey loaded nachos are a must in any proper Superbowl spread, and they need a cider that can stand up to their heft. The higher ABV and dry tannins cut the cheese (in a good way!) and the juicy peach sweetness compliments the spicy jalapeno without being cloying. 

 

Buffalo Wings and Peach Berry Cider

If you’ve ever had peach salsa, you know that the sweet fruitiness cools the burn of the spiciest serrano, taking you on a roller coaster of flavor. The science here is similar: pair your favorite hot wings recipe with a sweeter cider, and you’ll be able to ride that wild spice wave from kickoff to the final play.

 

Chili and Prickly Pear Cider (Taproom exclusive!)

Stop by and grab a crowler of this tart, tropical cactus cider and you’ll find that it melds perfectly with the south-of-the-border chili spices in your favorite recipe. It’s a great match for any chili recipe—beans or no beans—but we think it’s especially well-suited to a hearty chicken chili verde. 

 

Giant Sub Sandwich and Kinda Dry

Everyone loves a really good sandwich, and everyone loves a classic dry cider. Both are portable, well-balanced and carefully crafted with the very best ingredients. Both make people smile from across the room. Put these two crowd-pleasers together, and you’ve got a recipe for party success. 

 

Brownies and English Pub Cider

A classic dessert like rich, fudgy brownies needs a dry, palate-cleansing cider to wash it down. Our English Pub fits the bill. It’s smooth from over two years of aging, but nicely dry and tannic to ready your mouth for seconds…or thirds…or the whole pan, depending on whether your team wins…


What’s on your game day menu?

Use our handy Cider Finder to make sure you have all the perfect pairings.

RecipePortland Cider