This is the Nikka Hirosaki Cidery Nama Cider Sweet, an unpasteurised apple cider made from apples grown in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, designed to retain the fresh character of the fruit.

The beverage presented with a clear, pale yellow hue and moderate effervescence. Aroma opened with a clean, sweet apple profile, fresh without heaviness. Initial contact delivered a rounded apple sweetness. Through the mid-palate, the flavour broadened into a fuller, juice-like profile, closely resembling fresh apple juice. A light acidity provided lift, though without the sharper tartness seen in the rosé variant. The profile carried smoothly through the sip, remaining free of bitterness or astringency. Towards the finish, the sweetness tapered gently, leaving a lingering fresh apple note that maintained clarity without becoming cloying. Mouthfeel was light and softly effervescent, with a clean, non-coating texture.

Overall, a lightly sparkling cider with a sweet, juice-forward apple profile and minimal acidity, resulting in a smooth, clean and approachable structure.

This Nikka Hirosaki Cidery Nama Cider Sweet contained 200 mL. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Hirosaki, Japan in 2024.