Sassamanash – Canadian Invasion Series

Size: 750 mL
Alcohol: 9.9% alc./vol.
SKU: +32833
Packaging: Clear champagne glass; crown closure with a flip top for re-closure.

Cranberries, or sassamanash as the Algonquians called them, are a welcome sign of autumn. Several varieties – both indigenous and introduced – are found on Vancouver Island. When these crimson delights are blended with fermented apples the resulting cider is a tasty balance of bright acidity and autumn sweetness. As a cider in our Canadian Invasion Series, proceeds to help combat invasive plants. Raise a glass to the harvest season!

The Story:

Sassamanash continues with the Canadian Invasion Series theme of building awareness around invasive plants which are a threat to farms and natural areas alike. While both introduced and native varietals of Cranberries exist in the Pacific Northwest, Sassamanash helps eradicate invasive species by supporting The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) with a portion of proceeds from sales.

How we make this cider:

Sassamanash combines the best British Columbia grown apples with the finest BC cranberries and hibiscus flowers. We soak our cranberries and hibiscus flowers in spirits sourced from Vancouver Island, allowing them to steep for up to a year. Once we deem the flavours, aromas and colour to be sufficiently extracted, we press these blends with our wooden basket press then add these crimson bitters to our farm-crafted cider just before bottling. The result: a beautiful light rose coloured cider with a bright, balanced acidity that is drenched in autumn sweetness.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Sparkling, blush
Aromas/Flavours: Fruity, mouth-watering cranberry – slightly sharp with a hint of floral hibiscus flowers
Acid/Sweetness: Bright balanced acidity with residual sweetness
Mouthfeel: Sharp yet smooth with minimal tannins

Suggested Food Pairings:

Sassamanash was created to accompany your Holiday gatherings. Try it with Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas dinner, and everything in between! Turkey or ham (or nut loaf as a vegetarian option) with mashed root veggies, grilled kale, and other seasonal goodness pairs perfectly with this holiday sipper. Sassamanash also pairs well with fresh fruits, salty snacks, and light desserts. Or, combine with club soda for a festive holiday spritzer!