Napoleone Cider Co – Louis Cider

Louis is the latest cider from the Yarra Valley’s Napoleone Cider Co. The Louis is all about being a big barrel-fermented sessionable can of cider.

The Story goes old mate Louis was working in the orchard. A nasty poking accident resulted in Louis losing an eye in what is now known as the 1905 battle of stick face. The Louis Cider is a bit of a tribute to that battle.

Louis Cider takes apples from the 2020 harvest early in the year, yes back in the before times. The crushed apples and juice are left to steep on the skins for a full day, before being poured into large, well-used oak barrels where the fermentation begins. During the ferment, the cider-in-waiting is stirred to make sure that the lees get plenty of contact time with the liquid adding to the flavour.

The Nose

The scent is busting out of the glass. If you like a Sauvignon Blanc wine you will enjoy this. It is a smack in the face of lemon, passion fruit and green apples. It is followed up by biscuity and oaky notes.

The Taste

Napoleones latest release is a big bright apple cider with its fresh acid hit. That fades through a slight sourness into a biscuity finish coming from the lees. The biscuit vibe is boosted by the French oak vanilla traits

The refreshing acids balance the smooth biscuits and complemented by a small bubbled fizz. That makes it very easy to drink.

Final Thoughts on the Louis Cider

I’m liking this smashable afternoon tinnie. The balance of the smooth biscuit verse that zingy citrus keeps things interesting. Sunshine, fresh-cut lawn and a barbeque, that is where Louis is at home. Bring on summer.

Don’t forget to get your Real Cider Reviews merch