Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider – Your Orchard-to-Glass Flavor Explosion

Updated → September 2025

Experience the perfect fusion of New York's finest apples and sun-ripened Concord grapes in this gluten-free, 6.8% ABV craft cider that's revolutionizing the hard cider scene with its bold, sweet flavor profile.

The Craft Cider Revolution in New York

The Empire State has quietly become America's cider powerhouse, and Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider stands as a testament to this revolution. With over 700 apple orchards spanning 55,000 acres, New York produces more apples than any state except Washington, creating the perfect foundation for innovative craft ciders.

The resurgence of hard cider in America mirrors the craft beer movement, but with deeper historical roots. Colonial Americans consumed far more cider than beer, and today's craft producers are reclaiming that heritage with modern twists. The Finger Lakes region, where Three Brothers calls home, offers ideal growing conditions with its glacially carved valleys, moderate climate, and mineral-rich soils that rival the world's best wine regions.

Three Brothers: A Finger Lakes Legacy

Nestled at 623 Lerch Road in Geneva, New York, Three Brothers Wineries and Estates represents more than just a production facility—it's a destination. Since opening their doors in September 2007, they've created an unprecedented experience featuring three distinct wineries, a brewery, and a café all on one sprawling estate. This diversity fosters the creativity that birthed Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider.

As proud members of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Three Brothers embodies the "Grown Here, Made Here" philosophy that defines Finger Lakes craftsmanship. Their commitment to using 100% New York State-grown apples isn't just marketing—it's a reflection of their deep connection to the land and their neighbors who tend these orchards with generational knowledge.

What Makes Bombshell Different

While many ciders stick to traditional apple-only formulations, Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider breaks the mold. The addition of Concord grapes—New York's signature grape variety—creates a flavor profile that's simultaneously familiar and revolutionary. This isn't your grandmother's grape juice; it's a sophisticated adult beverage that happens to evoke those childhood memories of grape popsicles and summer afternoons.

The Art of Grape-Apple Fusion

Creating the perfect balance between apple and grape requires masterful blending skills. The winemakers at Three Brothers leverage their expertise from wine production to craft this unique cider. The Concord grape brings intense, jammy sweetness and that distinctive "foxy" character beloved in the Northeast, while the apple base provides crisp acidity and a clean finish that prevents the cider from becoming cloying.

This fusion represents more than flavor innovation—it's a celebration of New York's dual agricultural heritage. The state produces both world-class apples and is home to the native Concord grape, making Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider a true expression of terroir.

Professional Tasting Notes

Upon pouring, the cider reveals a beautiful purple-tinged hue that immediately signals this isn't your standard apple cider. The nose bursts with ripe Concord grape aromas—think grape jelly meets fresh apple orchard. The first sip delivers exactly what the aroma promises: an explosion of juicy grape flavor that gradually gives way to crisp apple notes on the mid-palate.

The 6.8% ABV provides just enough warmth without overwhelming the fruit flavors, while the carbonation level is carefully calibrated to enhance rather than mask the grape-apple interplay. The finish is surprisingly clean for a sweet cider, with just enough apple tartness to balance the grape sweetness and invite another sip.

Perfect Food Pairings

The versatility of Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider extends to food pairing. Its sweet profile and fruit-forward character make it an excellent match for spicy cuisines—think Thai curry, Buffalo wings, or Mexican street tacos. The sweetness tames heat while the carbonation cleanses the palate between bites.

For cheese pairings, look to creamy, mild options like fresh chèvre, ricotta, or young manchego. The cider also shines alongside charcuterie boards featuring prosciutto, sopressata, and fruit preserves. Don't overlook dessert pairings—this cider complements apple pie, grape tarts, and even dark chocolate beautifully.

Seasonal Serving Suggestions

While Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider works year-round, each season offers unique serving opportunities. Summer calls for ice-cold pours at barbecues and beach picnics, where its grape notes evoke childhood summers. Fall harvest festivals and apple-picking adventures pair naturally with this orchard-inspired beverage.

Winter holidays benefit from warming this cider gently with cinnamon sticks and star anise for a festive mulled cider. Spring brings opportunities to incorporate it into brunches and garden parties, where its vibrant flavors match the season's renewal.

Creative Cocktail Applications

Mixologists have discovered that Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider makes an excellent cocktail ingredient. Try a "Bombshell Sangria" by adding fresh fruit and a splash of brandy. Create a "Grape Escape" by mixing it with vodka and fresh mint. For a lower-alcohol option, blend it with seltzer and fresh grape garnish for a refreshing spritzer.

Behind the Production Process

The creation of this unique cider begins with careful apple selection from New York orchards. Three Brothers' winemakers apply their expertise to the cider-making process, treating it with the same care as their award-winning wines. The apples undergo crushing and pressing before fermentation begins, with Concord grape juice added at the precise moment to preserve its vibrant character.

Temperature-controlled fermentation ensures the delicate balance between apple and grape flavors remains intact. The final product is carefully filtered and carbonated before being packaged in convenient 16-ounce cans that preserve freshness and make Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider perfect for on-the-go enjoyment.

Gluten-Free Benefits & Considerations

For the growing number of consumers avoiding gluten, this cider offers a delicious alternative to beer. Being naturally gluten-free, it provides those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity a flavorful option that doesn't compromise on taste or quality. The 6.8% ABV puts it in line with many craft beers, making it a satisfying substitute.

Beyond gluten-free status, cider offers potential antioxidant benefits from both apples and grapes. However, the sweet profile means mindful consumption is key—each 16-ounce serving contains natural fruit sugars that contribute to its delicious taste but should be considered in overall dietary planning.

How It Stacks Against Competitors

In the increasingly crowded hard cider market, Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider carves out a unique niche. Unlike mass-market ciders that rely on apple concentrate and artificial flavors, this product uses real fruit and traditional techniques. Compared to other grape-apple blends, the Concord grape provides a distinctly American flavor that sets it apart from European-style ciders.

The 4-pack format at approximately $19 positions it in the premium craft segment, competing with artisanal offerings rather than budget options. This pricing reflects the quality ingredients, local sourcing, and careful production methods that distinguish craft beverages.

Smart Buying & Storage Tips

When purchasing Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider, check the packaging date for optimal freshness. While cider is more stable than beer, it's best enjoyed within a year of production. Store unopened cans in a cool, dark place—your refrigerator's crisper drawer works perfectly.

Once chilled, keep it cold to maintain carbonation and flavor integrity. If you're planning for parties or events, calculate one 4-pack per 2-3 casual drinkers, as the 16-ounce cans provide generous servings. Consider buying multiple 4-packs to take advantage of case discounts often offered at Pascale's Liquors.

Optimal Serving Temperature Guide

Temperature dramatically impacts your enjoyment of Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider. Serve it between 38-45°F for optimal flavor expression. Too cold mutes the grape notes; too warm emphasizes sweetness over balance. Use a proper cider glass or wine glass to concentrate aromas and maintain temperature.

Best Occasions for Bombshell

This versatile cider fits numerous occasions. It's sophisticated enough for dinner parties yet casual enough for backyard gatherings. The unique flavor profile makes it an excellent conversation starter at tastings or wine club meetings. Consider it for celebrations where not everyone drinks wine or beer—its approachable sweetness appeals to diverse palates.

Holiday gatherings benefit from this crowd-pleasing option that pairs well with everything from appetizers to desserts. Summer concerts, fall festivals, and spring picnics all provide perfect settings for enjoying Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider.

The Value Proposition

At first glance, the premium pricing might give budget-conscious buyers pause. However, consider what you're getting: a locally produced, gluten-free, artisanal beverage made from 100% New York State fruit. The 16-ounce cans provide more generous servings than standard 12-ounce options, and the unique flavor profile means you're getting something genuinely special.

When you purchase Three Brothers Apple Bombshell Concord Grape Cider from Pascale's Liquors, you're supporting local businesses and sustainable agriculture. The convenience of Liverpool's premier liquor store, with its knowledgeable staff and carefully curated selection, adds value beyond the product itself.