Martinelli’s: A Toast to the Past, with a Twist of the Future

Sparkling Cans: Northern California’s Best-Kept Secret

Then there are the Sparkling Cans, a product so exclusive you’d think they came with a velvet rope and a bouncer. At the time of this 2024 review, these cans were described as a Northern California offering at about $5.49 come in three flavors: Apple Cranberry, Apple Juice, and Apple Mango. Because, apparently, plain apple isn’t “sparkling” enough anymore.

The Apple Cranberry strikes a pleasant balance between tart and sweet as if the apples and cranberries had an arm-wrestling match and called it a tie. The Apple Juice is your classic Martinelli’s in portable form—great for long car rides or pretending to be a responsible adult at a picnic. And then there’s the Apple Mango, which tastes like a mango snuck into the apple orchard and decided to stay awhile.

Martinelli’s Sparkling Cans Verdict

If you’re a cider enthusiast—or just someone who enjoys pretending to be one—Martinelli’s 1868 Hard Cider is worth a try. It’s flavorful without being overly sweet, and its historical roots give you something to brag about at your next trivia night. As for the Sparkling Cans, they’re perfect for those of us who like our beverages portable and mildly pretentious.

So, is Martinelli’s 1868 Hard Cider the beverage of the year? Maybe not. But is it the beverage that will make your friends envious and your taste buds happy? Absolutely.

For more beverage coverage, see our coffee and beverage guide.