Pear Lychee & Concord Grape: Tasting Portland Cider’s Latest Fruit‑Packed Releases (Review)

Portland Cider Company has built a reputation for crafting ciders that balance authenticity, drinkability, and bold fruit character. With Pear Lychee and Concord Grape, the Portland‑based cidery continues that tradition, offering two vibrant, fruit‑driven releases that showcase just how expressive modern cider can be. Both ciders deliver refreshing flavor profiles, clean fermentation, and the kind of easygoing charm that appeals to cider fans and craft‑beverage newcomers alike. Whether you’re exploring new cider styles or simply looking for something bright and flavorful to enjoy year‑round, these two offerings stand out as excellent examples of Portland Cider’s creativity and craftsmanship.

Portland Cider Pear Lychee: A Delicate, Floral, Tropical Twist (Now Year-Round)

Pear Lychee is a cider that immediately grabs your attention with its aroma alone. The moment you crack open the can, you’re met with a wave of fresh pear, soft florals, and the unmistakable perfume of lychee—a fruit that’s naturally sweet, slightly exotic, and wonderfully aromatic. Portland Cider leans into that character without letting it overpower the base cider, creating a balanced and refreshing drinking experience.

Flavor & Aroma

The first sip is crisp and juicy, with pear leading the way. It’s bright, clean, and naturally sweet without feeling sugary. The lychee follows with its signature floral‑tropical sharp notes, adding depth and a gentle roundness to the finish. The interplay between the two fruits is seamless: pear provides the structure and freshness, while lychee brings a soft, almost silky tartness that lingers pleasantly.

Mouthfeel & Drinkability

Pear Lychee drinks light and refreshing, making it an ideal warm‑weather cider, though it’s versatile enough for any season. The carbonation is lively but not aggressive, and the finish is clean, leaving just enough fruit character behind to invite another sip. Fans of tropical ciders, fruited seltzers, or lighter perries will find this one especially appealing.

Food Pairings

This cider pairs beautifully with foods that complement its delicate fruit profile. Think:

Fresh spring rolls
Light salads with citrus dressing
Soft cheeses like brie or chèvre
Mild curries or Thai dishes with coconut milk

The floral‑tropical notes of the lychee make it a natural match for Asian‑inspired cuisine, while the pear keeps things grounded and refreshing.

Overall Impression

Portland Cider Pear Lychee is a standout for its balance, aromatics, and drinkability. It’s flavorful without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and unique without feeling gimmicky. For cider drinkers who enjoy fruit‑forward releases with a refined edge, this one is a must‑try…and be sure to check out the refreshed packaging. As a side note, look for Pear Lychee in Jan-Feb 2026 as part of a Lunar New Year Moment promotion.

Portland Cider Concord Grape: A Bold, Juicy, Nostalgic Crowd‑Pleaser (Winter Seasonal)

If Pear Lychee is delicate and floral, Concord Grape is its bold, juicy counterpart. This cider taps into the unmistakable flavor of classic Concord grapes—the same grapes that define childhood grape juice, jelly, and popsicles—but elevates it into a crisp, adult‑friendly cider that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.

Flavor & Aroma

The aroma is unmistakably grape, bursting with deep purple fruit, jammy sweetness, and a hint of tartness. On the palate, Concord Grape delivers a vibrant, juicy flavor that’s both familiar and surprisingly sophisticated. The grape character is bold, but Portland Cider keeps the sweetness in check, allowing the natural acidity of the fruit to shine through.

The result is a cider that’s juicy, bright, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of drink that immediately puts you in a good mood—fun, flavorful, and full of personality.

Mouthfeel & Drinkability

Concord Grape has a slightly fuller body than Pear Lychee, thanks to the richness of the grape flavor, but it still finishes crisp and refreshing. The carbonation lifts the fruit notes and keeps the cider from feeling heavy. It’s an easy sipper, perfect for backyard gatherings, picnics, or casual evenings when you want something flavorful but not overly complex.

Food Pairings

This cider pairs well with foods that can stand up to its bold fruit character, such as:

BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Sharp cheddar or aged gouda
Charcuterie boards
Grilled sausages
Chocolate‑covered fruit or berry‑based desserts

The grape’s natural sweetness and acidity make it a versatile pairing partner, especially for savory or smoky dishes.

Overall Impression

Portland Cider Concord Grape is a joyful, fruit‑packed cider that embraces the full flavor of its namesake grape. It’s bold, juicy, and instantly appealing, offering a fun twist on traditional cider while still maintaining the clean fermentation and balance Portland Cider is known for. Fans of grape‑based beverages, fruited ciders, or sweeter craft options will find this one irresistible.

Final Thoughts: Two Distinct, Delicious Expressions of Modern Cider

Together, Pear Lychee and Concord Grape highlight Portland Cider’s ability to craft fruit‑forward ciders that remain balanced, refreshing, and true to their ingredients. Pear Lychee shines with its delicate floral notes and tropical elegance, while Concord Grape bursts with bold, juicy flavor and nostalgic charm. Both are excellent examples of how creative, well‑executed fruit ciders can appeal to a wide range of drinkers.

Whether you’re stocking up for warm‑weather sipping, exploring new cider styles, or simply looking for flavorful, high‑quality craft beverages, these two releases from Portland Cider Company deserve a spot on your radar.

.

zzubreebym