What is Real Cider (vs Commercial Cider) ?
My first encounter with cider upon my arrival to the UK was in a supermarket aisle. Right there, between mass produced beer and cheap wine, a handful of tins and bottles with colorful labels proudly proclaiming their contents as ‘Premium’, ‘Traditional’ or ‘Somerset’ cider.
Out of curiosity I decided to give it a go, and bought a small selection with the intent of trying out different cider styles and options. I brought them home and like a proper wine nerd, poured a little of each one in a glass and started tasting them as per a wine tasting.
To my surprise and disappointment, I could not really understand what all the fuss was about. Each of those ciders–I will not bother to quote brands or product names, not to protect the companies involved, but because pretty much all supermarket stocked cider is the same–tasted pretty much identical: Sparkling, incredibly sweet and with a level of artificial fruit flavouring that reminded me more of some of of a sodas than a premium alcoholic beverage.
What I did not know at the time was that what I was tasting was not real cider. Yes, it was made of apples, and yes it contained alcohol, but there was where the resemblance ended. This was not cider, this was the mass produced, made-from-concentrate, artificially flavoured product that has all but erased from collective memory what real cider is. It was only several years later that I found my way back to cider and I discovered what a misleading experience I had with those first few bottles, and so my journey into real cider began.
What is Real Cider?
Real cider is a drink made from 100% fresh-pressed apple juice. It ferments naturally without any added artificial ingredients like sweeteners or flavorings. Unlike mass-produced ciders, real cider takes its flavor from the apples and the fermentation process, creating a more natural and authentic beverage. Many small-scale producers craft real cider, often using specific apple varieties like bittersweet and sharp cider apples. This focus on traditional methods and quality ingredients makes real cider distinct and flavorful.
Differences Between Real Cider and Commercial Cider
Real cider and commercial cider differ in several key ways:
- Ingredients: Real cider is made entirely from fresh-pressed apple juice, typically from cider-specific apple varieties. Commercial cider often uses concentrated apple juice mixed with water and includes artificial additives such as sweeteners and preservatives.
- Production: Real cider relies on natural fermentation processes using wild or naturally occurring yeasts. Commercial cider is mass-produced using industrial methods that speed up fermentation and often include artificial carbonation.
- Flavor: Real cider has a complex taste that depends on the apples and fermentation process. It can be dry, sweet, or anything in between. Commercial cider tends to have a simpler, sweeter taste designed to appeal to a broader audience.
- Alcohol Content: Real cider can vary in alcohol strength, reflecting the natural sugar levels of the apples. Commercial ciders usually have a consistent alcohol content, typically around 4-5% ABV.
- Quality and variety: Real cider is intrinsically closer to the category of whole food, being made with natural ingredients
What happened to real cider over the years?
Historically, all cider was essentially “real cider,” as it was made using traditional methods with fresh-pressed apple juice and natural fermentation. Cider history shows us how this drink was even preferred to wine and beer during the 17th and 18th century. And then came, industrialization. Food and drink production in the 20th century changed and so did cider production. Large-scale producers began prioritizing cost efficiency, shelf stability, and mass appeal, leading to the use of apple concentrate, artificial additives, and accelerated fermentation processes. For many years, this industrial cider was simply marketed generically as “cider,” with little attention drawn to the differences from traditional methods.
Recognition of Real Cider
Over the last century, a general lack of knowledge around cider as a quality product has allowed the biggest players in the market to rule without concern for quality. Most people didn’t question the difference between a traditional farmhouse cider and a sweet, mass-produced beverage sold in supermarkets. For decades, marketing campaigns from large producers dominated public perception, presenting industrial cider as the norm.
In recent years, more and more efforts have been made to clearly define and protect real cider with many cider makers, experts and enthusiasts pushing for laws to regulate this market. CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) has set specific standards that cider must meet to be recognized as “real.” These standards include:
- A minimum of 90% fresh-pressed apple or pear juice.
- No artificial sweeteners, flavorings, or preservatives.
Today, ciders that meet CAMRA standards are often labeled as “real cider” or “craft cider.” Alternatively, you can also find labels with wording “from 100% juice” or “farmhouse cider” which can also indicate authenticity, helping consumers choose traditional products.
Market Growth of Real Cider
The popularity of real cider has grown in recent years, driven by a desire for artisanal and locally produced drinks. Many people now prefer beverages made with natural ingredients and traditional methods. This trend aligns with the broader craft beverage movement, which includes craft beer and small-batch spirits.
In the UK, more independent cider makers are entering the market, producing high-quality products with unique flavors. The demand for these authentic ciders is expected to grow as more people explore drinks that offer a connection to tradition and natural processes.
Events Promoting Real Cider
Festivals and events have played a big role in raising awareness about real cider. These gatherings allow people to taste and learn about authentic ciders. Some notable examples include:
- CAMRA Cider and Perry Festivals: These events showcase a wide range of real ciders and perries, offering opportunities to try different styles.
- Apple Day: Held annually on October 21st, Apple Day celebrates orchards and traditional apple varieties. Events often include cider tastings, talks, and workshops.
- Industry conferences: annual conferences like CraftCon, that have been an important moment for craft cidermakers in the UK to gather and through educational panels, lectures and tastings
- Local Cider Festivals: Events like the Bristol Cider Festival or those along the Herefordshire Cider Route focus on regional producers and their craft.
These events not only promote real cider but also highlight the importance of supporting traditional methods, small local farmers and the existence of a network of professionals devoted to make, distribute and promote real cider.
Real cider is the way forward
Real cider is a unique product that stands out for its natural ingredients, traditional production methods, and authentic flavors. With growing interest in artisanal and sustainable beverages, real cider is gaining more recognition and appreciation. As more people seek to move away from artificial and processed drinks and embrace authentic and natural beverages, real cider is gaining recognition for its unique qualities and connection to heritage. Ultimately though, whatever your preference–be it the simplicity of commercial cider or the complexity of real cider–understanding the differences and nuances of the options available allows for a more informed and enjoyable experience.
