I write about my own experience with cider brewing and answered relevant questions to help new and advanced brewers.
What is Cyser? Well, Cyser is a type of mead that is created by fermenting honey with apple juice or cider. Its flavour profile is a unique blend of the sweetness of honey and the tartness of apples, resulting in a potent and delightful drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. As an experienced brewer,…
Apple juice and cider can be affected by a variety of microbes during different stages of their production. I am a microbiologist by education, so this topic is of particular interest to me! These microbes can originate from the apples themselves, the equipment used for processing, the water, or the environment in which the apples…
Cyser is a delightful type of mead, a honey wine that is fermented with apples or apple juice. It has a rich history dating back to medieval times, and it’s enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the growing interest in craft brewing and cider making. One of the most common questions…
When it comes to brewing cyser, a delightful blend of cider and mead, one question often pops up: how long should it be aged? In a nutshell, the ideal aging time for cyser is between 6 months to 2 years. However, this is a broad spectrum, and the actual aging time can vary based on…
Have you ever wondered if you can make cider from quince, either on its own or with an apple or pear base? The simple answer is yes, you can indeed create a refreshing, unique cider from this often-overlooked fruit. In this post, I will guide you through the process, share some tips from my personal…
Will cider explode in the freezer? Yes, it certainly can. Like any canned or bottled drink, when cider is exposed to freezing temperatures it expands, and this could potentially cause the container to burst. This is especially true for cider, which traditionally has an alcohol content around that of most beers. Some have slightly higher…
In the world of brewing, there are many myths and misconceptions that can throw even the most experienced brewer for a loop. One of these is the belief that cider is exclusively made from apples. To answer the question straight away: No, cider is not only made from apples. It can also be made from…
As a long-time home brewer and cider aficionado, I’ve had my fair share of challenges. One of the most common issues I’ve faced is how do I stop cider from becoming too acidic? It can be a tricky problem to tackle, but with the right knowledge, you can produce delicious, well-balanced cider every time. The…
Welcome to another exciting exploration of the world of brewing. Today, we’ll be tackling an interesting question that’s been on the minds of many cider enthusiasts: Can you use champagne yeast for cider? The short answer is, yes, you can use champagne yeast for cider. However, the choice of yeast can significantly impact the final…
As a long-time brewer and cider enthusiast, I’ve often been asked a question that seems to concern many people: Does hard cider contain methanol? The quick answer is yes, but in very small amounts that are generally not harmful to us. It is formed naturally in the apple juice and is present at about 25…