As a Worcestershire resident I've become a fan of Hobson's ales over the years given they're not that far away and make, well, really good ale.

They've also ventured into cider making in a collaboration with orchardman (I've never used that word before) Geoff Thompson of Oldfields Farm which has inspired me to venture (briefly) into cider blogging.

In my defence this cider is intended to be enjoyed like a sparkling wine which brings things back into my usual comfort zone a little more...

The interesting thing about this cider is that it's made from pink Discovery apples. These aren't usually used for cider as being eating apples they're not the most flavoursome.

Given however that this is intended to be enjoyed like a sparkling wine the subtly of the cider actually works quite well. It's not a punchy flavour but in the right time and place I don't think you want or need it to be.

This is a restrained and refreshing cider capable of being happily consumed with food (it went very well with scallops) or just as an aperitif. At only 6% abv it's suitable for many situations.

And there was me thinking cider could only be consumed by the pint glass full of ice.....

Available from Tanners Wines.