Poiré "Granit," Eric Bordelet - NV

Eric Bordelet may be the most renowned cider maker in Normandy, and this is the crème de la crème of his estate. Made from 300 year-old, 60-foot tall trees that deliver the highest quality pears, this is some serious cider. What sticks with me here is how well balanced the Poire Granit is. It's got a dry, lingering finish, but there's just enough residual sugar to seat this at the most perfect intersection of juicy and crisp. This balance helps the complex notes of those ripe green pear skins absolutely sing. A total joy to drink; in fact it is dangerously crushable, yet so elegant that you must restrain yourself. This is a great alternative to sparkling wines, even Champagne. I've found that it drinks beautifully with foods that have some heat and/or strong umami/soy flavors.