The Tradition of the Snakebite
We’re rooted in English tradition here at Portland Cider Co., due in large part to owner Lynda Parrish’s English beginnings.
One of those fun traditions is creating Snakebites, a “beertail” drink that is equal parts cider and lager (or stout here in the US). This drink rose in popularity during the 1980s in the UK, and is perfect for those who want just one more pint but can’t decide between a pint of cider or a pint of beer.
This drink is smooth and fruity from the cider, but it packs a bit of “bite” from the added beer - hence the name! The snakebite also has endless possibilities of how to create it based on the combination of beer and cider you choose to use in it.
In years past, we’ve paid homage to this beertail by hosting the Snakebite Showdown in our pubs in a few different ways:
Variations:
As the drink has evolved, a few options to put a spin on this classic Snakebite have emerged:
Snakebite & Black Currant AKA The Diesel - This interpretation of the cocktail is still half a pint of cider and half a pint of lager, but with touch black currant syrup added in on top.
Budget Friendly Black Velvet - The Black Velvet is typically a drink made with one part stout to one part champagne, so the “Budget Friendly” Black Velvet is one part stout and one part cider, skipping the champagne entirely.
Pro Tip:
To create that photo-worthy layered lager on-top-of the cider effect, use the “back of the spoon” method. To do this, pour the cider into your pint glass, then slowly pour the lager or other beer of your choice over the back of the spoon. This allows the beer to pour down the edge of the glass and rest on top of the cider, forming those pretty layers.
If you want to show off your Snakebite for our 2020 Virtual Snakebite Showdown, simply create your perfect cider and beer blend, post it with #SnakebiteShowdown2020, and tag us. We’ll be reposting some of our favorites.
Portland Cider Company is committed to making the best cider in the Pacific Northwest - it’s in our roots! Portland Cider Co. was established in 2013 with the mission of bringing together cider rooted in the English tradition with a little Portland personality and culture. Combine those things, and you’ve got the Portland Cider Company.