Sundström Cider

Sponti is a spontaneous cuvée – a cross-regional representation of New York State terroir. Sponti’s blend is always based on Northern Spy and native NE heirloom apple cultivars. 2018 sourced fruit from 2 orchards in the Finger Lakes and Lake Ontario regions of NY. The apples were ‘sweat’ for approximately 2 weeks before processing, with 60% of the apples receiving 18 hours of maceration before press. Native fermentations kick off without temperature control and the cider is then aged for an extended period on the lees. Bottled by traditional method without disgorgement. No fining or filtration. Sulfured only once at racking, in accordance with pH.

2018 Sponti is made of 45% Northern Spy, 25% Golden Russet, 23% Baldwin and 7% Wickson. This vintage was aged an especially long time on the lees before bottling – 12 months in stainless steel, without battonage (compared to Sponti’s typical 6 months). The extended aging in solely stainless for 2018 was a response to the natural malolactic conversion that occurred with this vintage. The result is the most delicately intricate and well-balanced example of Sponti yet. Showing a graceful harmony of fruit, tannin, acid, and mineral. At once lithe and delicate and in the same moment persistent and long. Take special care not to drink this too cold too. Its layers run deep.