As a non-drinker, when I hear “apple cider” I instinctively picture non-alcoholic fresh-pressed cider. The next thing I think about is Martinelli’s sparkling cider. If I stretch myself I’ll remember that apple cider has historically been an alcoholic beverage. Schilling is a Pacific Northwest company that specializes in hard cider, but they also offer a non-alcoholic option in their Excelsior series called “Ground Control”.

Ground Control is not only non-alcoholic, it’s a “never-alcoholic” beverage. Unlike NA beers or wines that go through a fermentation process and then have alcoholic removed, this cider isn’t fermented. That means that there’s no issue of flavor loss through dealcoholization. You get the full apple flavor that you want (along with other fruit juice to compliment), but Schilling adds a little something-something to it as well. There’s just enough apple cider vinegar added to the cider to give it a bright and tangy bite without overpowering the fruit flavors. They do all that while keeping the drink at 60 calories a can (with no artificial sweeteners).

I really enjoyed the cider. The vinegar notes reminded me of a well-balanced shrub, and the sugar levels were perfect for me. Enough to satisfy that primal part of my brain that craves it, but not enough to weigh it down or make it sticky. The tart cherry juice added some depth and character as well. If I’m going to criticize anything it would be the carbonation level. I’d like it to be just a touch more fizzy, but I’m really nitpicking here. It’s a great beverage, and I’m glad that this option exists for people that want something other than a soda.

You can find their ciders at various stores/markets in the Seattle and Portland area. Maybe even further away. They also have Cider Houses in Seattle and Portland. If you stop by, please let them know that you saw my review.