Lordy, Lordy- I swear these shall be the last of my ciders reviews...Unless, I suppose, a new one comes along.

Hard Core Crisper Hard Core  (6% alcohol, $1.50/12 ounce bottle)
Another cider with that lovely, light apple juice color that reminds you of the orchards and sweetness from which it came.  It is also surprisingly thicker than some ciders of the same color.  You feel the stronger alcohol content in the back of your throat.  The greatest surprise from this cider is the interesting smell.  I doubt seriously that the people at Hard Core threw in anise seeds, but it does have a soft, elegant licorice smell to it.  Coming from someone who despises black licorice, this is quite a compliment. (Rating ***)
 

Hard Core Black Cider  (6% alcohol, $1.50/12 ounce bottle)
Like a worldy, sexy, older man, this one is a charmer.  It wooed me with its red-brown color.  Unlike many ciders, this one seems more opaque.  What secrets does it hold?  Plenty.  After it seduces you with an aroma reminiscent of scotch and honey, it intoxicates your nose with subtle but very perceptible fumes of alcohol.  Now that it has you in its grasps, it molds your tongue with a creamy, flavorful cider.  Be warned though, if not allowed to warm a little this one is liable to spank your tongue the first time through.  (Rating ****)
 

Maeve's Draft Cider  (6% alcohol, $1.50/12 ounce bottle)
"Honoring the great Celtic goddess  Queen Maeve, Maeves Draft Cider is handcrafted from fresh local apples."  Well, o.k., then.  Except for the local bar, which sells it in bottles, this one seems to be a little more difficult to find by the six pack.  How unfortunate!  Why has this little treasure not caught on yet?  Is it so unusual that cider lovers aren't sure what to make of it?  This is the cider for tree huggers and earth-lovers..  With its taste of overripe apples, Maeve's tells the story of its creation while you drink it.  It has an earthy flavor and a complex bouquet- is it melon, brandy, or wood I'm sensing?  Maeve's Draft Cider gets my vote for the official drink of Earth Day.  (Rating ****1/2)