So, You Can't Drink Beer?

Nothing says ‘Australia’ like beer. As cliché as that sounds, it’s true. Think about it, beer is to Australia what fake tan is to Snooki – inevitable, maybe even necessary. The sun, the surf, the chilled-out attitude, it all goes so well with that yeasty yet refreshing beverage. But what if you don’t like beer? Are you, dare I say it ‘unAustralian’?

Now, I hate the term ‘unAustralian’ because it presumes that there is a right way to be ‘Australian’ and as a multicultural and generally diverse nation this doesn’t actually make sense. The whole thing reeks of irony and hilarity really. But being the booze hound I am, an aversion to sipping back a frosty draught at your local on a hot day is one thing that irks me out. I’m more likely to trust a beer drinker than a non beer drinker, especially when it comes to choosing friends and potential love interests.

But what if you seriously just can’t do it? What if the amber liquid tastes like yeasty poison to you? Or as my younger sister puts it like “wet wood”? The hearty taste of beer isn’t enjoyed by everyone, so where’s the alternative?

It’s in the cider aisle.

Yes, cider has had a resurgence these last few years and it only gets more and more popular, especially with the ladies.

Cider is a carbonated drink that looks very similar to beer and can even be served in schooners from the tap at bars, giving it a beer-like appearance and drinking experience. But here is its saving grace – it’s sweeter than beer and that’s because its main ingredient is apples or pears. It doesn’t have that heavy, yeasty taste that is characteristic of beer. Cider instead reminds you of Appletizer or non-alcoholic bubbly.

The most common brands include Bulmers, Magners, 5 Seeds, Three Oaks, Rekordelig, Strongbow, Monteiths and are all relatively cheap to buy from either the bottle-o or the pub.

My new favourite is the limited edition ‘Winter Cider’, Rekordelig has just released which is an apple cider with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon that can be served warm or cold. This Swedish brand makes sophisticated cider at a really great price and is now available in most bottle shops.

So when you’re feeling left out as everyone knocks back their Toohey’s or you just want a change from your usual Carlton schooner, ask the bartender about what ciders they offer.

Fresh, cold, bubbly, easy-to-drink and fruity – cider, a great beer alternative and a girl’s best friend. Especially when you are drinking with the boys.

Cheers!

By Roxnane Groebel