Maker: Uncle John’s, St. John’s, Michigan, USA
Varietal: 100% Bartlett
Style: Dry Perry
ABV: 5%
Price: $11/750 ml (Binny’s)
Note: Note: At the time of purchase, I received a complimentary bottle of Russet cider and of Uncle John’s Apple Brandy.
Appearance: Bright yellow with a big fizzy head.
Nose: Fresh cut pear, golden delicious apples, kiwi, papaya.
Palate: Dry and effervescent. Pear peel, Meyer lemon, leather mineral water.
Finish: Drying and slightly tart.
Parting words: Uncle John’s Perry is part of their line of premium ciders including Russet (blend of Russet varieties, with Golden Russet making up the majority), Melded (a blend of English, French and American heritage cider apples), and Baldwin (single variety cider from Lake Michigan Shore apples).
This perry is a source of pride for Uncle John’s co-owner and operator Mike Beck. It’s easy to see why. Many perries taste and smell like fermented syrup from a can of pears. This perry is beautifully dry and gently tannic, all made using Bartlett, the same variety of pears that end up in the can! Mike told me that there are heirloom pear varieties that are intended for use in perry but they are even harder to find than cider apples. If anybody reading this has more information about perry pears, please comment!
Anyway, this is the best perry I’ve ever had. It made me rethink the category as a whole. America needs more good perry! Uncle John’s Perry is highly recommended.
Sipology 