Cider is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented juice of apples.
There are overall 4 different types of cider to suit a variety of tastes. These are: sweet, bittersweet, bitter, and acidic.
In this blog post, I will be diving deep into these four categories, sharing my personal experiences and providing information on how they are made, their flavor profiles, and food pairings.
How many types of cider are there?
There are various types of cider available, each with its own unique characteristics.
Some common types include traditional or English cider, which is typically made from cider apples; scrumpy cider, which is a rustic and unfiltered version; perry cider, made from pears; and flavored ciders, which can include fruit, spices, or other additives.
Overall, there are dry, semi-dry, and sweet ciders, each offering different levels of sweetness.
The number of specific cider types can vary depending on regional variations and individual cider makers’ creativity.
Sweet cider
The Making of Sweet Cider
Sweet cider is made from apples that are high in sugar and low in tannins. These apples are typically referred to as dessert or culinary apples.
The fermentation process is halted before all the sugars are converted into alcohol, resulting in a sweeter, lower-alcohol content cider.
Flavor Profile and Food Pairings
Sweet cider has a fruity and sugary taste that appeals to many cider drinkers. Its sweetness can range from subtle to intense, depending on the apples used and the fermentation process. Some sweet ciders can be almost syrupy in texture, while others maintain a lighter, more refreshing quality.
Sweet ciders pair well with spicy foods, such as Thai or Indian cuisine, as the sweetness can help balance the heat. They also complement rich, creamy dishes like macaroni and cheese or alfredo pasta.
Bittersweet Cider
The Making of Bittersweet Cider
Bittersweet cider is made from apples that have a higher tannin content and lower acidity. These apples are often referred to as cider apples.
The fermentation process allows for a balance between the sweetness from the sugars and the bitterness from the tannins, resulting in a complex and flavorful cider.
Flavor Profile and Food Pairings
Bittersweet cider has a rich, full-bodied flavor with a balance of sweetness and bitterness. This complexity makes it appealing to those who enjoy wine or other more nuanced alcoholic beverages.
Bittersweet ciders can have a range of flavors, from earthy and woody to fruity and floral, depending on the specific apples used.
Bittersweet ciders pair well with hearty, savory dishes such as roasted meats, stews, and casseroles. They can also complement strong, pungent cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar.
Bitter cider
The Making of Bitter Cider
Bitter cider is made from apples with high tannin content but less sugar. These apples are often referred to as sharp or bittersharp apples.
The fermentation process results in a cider with a pronounced bitterness and a lower sweetness level.
Flavor Profile and Food Pairings
Bitter cider has a sharp, astringent flavor that can be an acquired taste for some drinkers. The bitterness can range from subtle to intense, depending on the apples and fermentation process. Bitter ciders often have a dry finish, making them a refreshing choice for those who enjoy hoppy beers or dry wines.
Bitter ciders pair well with rich, fatty foods such as charcuterie, fried chicken, or creamy pasta dishes. The bitterness can help cut through the richness and cleanse the palate.
Acidic Cider
The Making of Acidic Cider
Acidic cider is made from apples with high acidity and lower sugar and tannin content. These apples are often referred to as sharp apples.
The fermentation process results in a cider with a pronounced tartness and a lower sweetness level.
Flavor Profile and Food Pairings
Acidic cider has a bright, tart flavor that can be very refreshing. The acidity can range from subtle to intense, depending on the apples and fermentation process.
Acidic ciders often have a crisp, clean finish, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy sour beers or white wines.
Acidic ciders pair well with light, fresh dishes such as salads, seafood, or grilled vegetables. The acidity can help balance the flavors and add a refreshing element to the meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the different types of cider – sweet, bittersweet, bitter, and acidic – each offer unique flavor profiles and food pairings. Whether you prefer a fruity, sugary taste or a sharp, astringent flavor, there is a cider out there for you. As an experienced brewer, I encourage you to explore the wide world of cider and discover your favorite variety.
10 Facts About Cider
1. Cider is made from the fermented juice of apples.
2. There are four main types of cider: sweet, bittersweet, bitter, and acidic.
3. Sweet cider is made from dessert or culinary apples and has a fruity, sugary taste.
4. Bittersweet cider is made from cider apples and has a rich, full-bodied flavor.
5. Bitter cider is made from sharp or bittersharp apples and has a sharp, astringent flavor.
6. Acidic cider is made from sharp apples and has a bright, tart flavor.
7. The flavor profiles of ciders can range from subtle to intense, depending on the apples and fermentation process.
8. Ciders can be paired with a variety of foods, from spicy dishes to rich, creamy meals.
9. The cider-making process is similar to that of wine production.
10. Cider is a popular choice for those who enjoy beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages.
FAQs
Is cider sweet or bitter?
Cider can vary in taste, ranging from sweet to dry or even bitter. It depends on the type of apples used and the fermentation process. Some ciders are made with sweeter apple varieties, resulting in a sweet taste, while others use tart apples, leading to a more bitter flavor.
What is the difference between sweet and dry cider?
The main difference between sweet and dry cider lies in their residual sugar content. Sweet cider has a higher sugar content, resulting in a noticeably sweet taste. On the other hand, dry cider has minimal residual sugar, offering a more crisp and tart flavor profile. The level of sweetness or dryness can vary depending on the cider maker’s preference and the apple varieties used.
What are the 4 types of cider?
The four types of cider are traditional cider, fruit cider, perry cider, and ice cider. Traditional cider is made from fermented apple juice, while fruit cider incorporates other fruits along with apples. Perry cider is made from fermented pear juice, and ice cider is produced by freezing apple juice to concentrate its flavors.
Are there other types of cider besides apple?
Yes, there are other types of cider besides apple. Cider can be made from various fruits such as pears, cherries, peaches, and berries. These fruit ciders offer a different flavor profile compared to traditional apple cider, providing a diverse range of options for cider enthusiasts.
What is the number 1 cider in the world?
The number one cider in the world is difficult to determine definitively as it can vary depending on personal preferences and regional popularity. However, some well-known and widely enjoyed cider brands globally include Strongbow, Magners, and Bulmers.
