There’s no better time than fall to enjoy a perfectly brewed hard cider — and nothing better to pair it with than a delightful cheese! This season, we’re loving the ciders from Common Cider for their light, crisp flavor with only a hint of sweetness. Check out our favorite brews, along with some suggestions for perfect pairings:

• Blood Orange Tangerine Cider: This cider won a Gold Medal at this year’s California State Fair. It features a slight citrus peel aroma and a pale yellow appearance, along with deep, ripe orange undertones and a fresh tangerine finish. Try it with aged or sharp cheddars, mozzarella, goat cheese or blue cheese. If you’re drinking it at mealtime, we love it with burgers or baked meatloaf.
• Hibiscus Saison Cider: Light and dry, with a slightly bitter bite, this cider features a beautiful crimson color. The apple comes through in the tart middle, but it ends in a smooth finish. The Hibiscus Saison won a Bronze Medal at this year’s California State Fair. Try pairing it with blue cheese, goat cheese, or milder varieties of cheddar, provolone or buffalo mozzarella. With a meal, we like it teamed with pork tamales or beef and broccoli stir-fry.
• Cranberry Pear Cider: This cider features soft berry notes up front, with a fruity backbone and a dry cranberry finish. We love it with blue and other aged cheeses, Swiss cheese, or Gruyere. Or try it with a club sandwich (we prefer turkey, avocado, bacon and Swiss on a croissant), or with salmon-filled sushi rolls and steamed edamame.