Summer is slowly winding down, and so are we. As Oregonians, we’re built for the fall season and always look forward to stocking our cupboards with cozy items to cuddle up with. We’ve picked a pairing that presents a laid-back level of sophistication — whether you’re sailing through an end-of-summer soirée or soaking up fresh fall smells and simple relaxation.
The Tannins
Riverblend Rigberry Cider is an unfiltered blend of Jonagold apples and Asian pears, co-fermented with a purée of blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and marionberries from Rigberry Garden in Eugene.
Opening the bottle releases a burst of carbon dioxide, a byproduct of ongoing fermentation. The amber liquid may have more sediment than usual, with bits of spent yeast and fruit that enhance the charm of this ancient technique. Naturally fermented with native yeasts, this cider offers a gentle experience. It’s supremely sippable with an effervescent, light-bodied mouthfeel and a complex flavor profile of apricot, elderberry, tart cherry and savory yeast that complements the berry mix.
riverblendcider.com | @riverblend_cider
The Terpenes
Quality Drugs Wildberry Tea with Chamomile Gumdrops is a soft and chewy delight from the folks at Groundworks in Portland. Each sugar-coated candy is bite-sized, serving a bright berry flavor with a floral chamomile compliment.
These are free from any taste of the “Cannabis extract, artificially derived CBN hemp extract, or CBD isolate derived from hemp,” used to make them. Yet, our eyelids quickly confirmed that these are working with some reliable relaxation. With only 2.5mg THC, 2.5mg CBD and 2.5mg CBN per gumdrop, these are a low-dose luxury allowing consumption at any rate that suits the mood. The pack of 20 is perfect for settling in and munching your way through a movie, this magazine or wherever your leisure leads you.
Testing: 1:1:1 THC:CBD:CBN
2.5mg THC, 2.5mg CBD and 2.5mg CBN per gumdrop
The Pairing
As always, we caution anyone when mixing substances to do so responsibly. But, we must admit that these gumdrops are a fruity fit for snacking alongside cider. The low dose of THC, CBD and CBN set the scene for a serene sipping experience, softly slowing down the evening to a perfectly peaceful pace.