As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide range of ciders, including Angry Orchard. When it comes to the sweetness of Angry Orchard hard cider, I must say that it leans towards the sweeter side of the spectrum.
The first thing that strikes me about Angry Orchard is its sweetness. It has a distinct sweetness that is reminiscent of an alcoholic soda or a wine cooler. This sweetness is quite pronounced and can be easily detected even by someone who is not particularly familiar with ciders. If you enjoy drinks that have a sugary taste and a pleasant sweetness, then you may find Angry Orchard to your liking.
However, if you prefer wines that are on the dry side, you may find Angry Orchard to be a bit insipid. Traditional ciders often have a balance between sweetness and acidity, with a crisp, tart flavor profile. Angry Orchard, on the other hand, veers more towards a sweeter profile, which may not be to everyone's taste.
Personally, I tend to prefer ciders that have a more balanced flavor profile, with a touch of sweetness complemented by acidity and tannins. While I can appreciate the appeal of a sweeter cider like Angry Orchard, it is not my personal preference.
It is worth noting that taste preferences can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may enjoy the sweetness of Angry Orchard and find it refreshing, while others may find it too sweet or lacking complexity. Ultimately, whether or not Angry Orchard is considered sweet is subjective and depends on individual preferences.
To summarize, Angry Orchard hard cider is indeed sweet, with a flavor profile that resembles an alcoholic soda or wine cooler. If you enjoy sweet drinks, you may find it enjoyable. However, if you prefer drier wines or ciders with a more balanced flavor profile, Angry Orchard may not be the ideal choice for you.