Ever thought about if cider’s a real drink? You are in luck! Now you will learn the facts about this popular tipple. It’s info you won’t want to miss! In this article, the truth behind cider is revealed.
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Quick facts: Is Cider Legit
✅ Cider is the fastest growing alcoholic beverage in the UK, with sales increasing by 11.9% in 2018 (CGA Strategy).
Source: CGA Strategy
✅ Cider is the sixth most popular alcoholic beverage in the US, with 16 million people consuming it in 2017 (Nielsen).
Source: Nielsen
✅ The global cider market is expected to reach $50.5 billion by 2025 (Allied Market Research).
Source: Allied Market Research
✅ Cider is a growing trend among millennials, with 64% of cider drinkers in 2018 falling into the 25-34 age bracket (CGA Strategy).
Source: CGA Strategy
✅ The cider industry is expected to experience substantial growth due to the increasing demand for organic and gluten-free products (Grand View Research).
Source: Grand View Research
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History of Cider
Cider’s history goes way back to 400 BC in Homeric Greece. The Romans are thought to have brought it to Britain, by making “mulsum” or “hedonic” wine with apples. It spread across Europe and to the Americas after that.
In the 1800s, England and Wales had a cider revival. This was because of tax reform, which made producing alcoholic drinks cheaper. As a result, cider consumption increased and 19 million apple trees were planted for cider production.
Cider has gone from coast-to-coast in North America. Nowadays, craft breweries make craft ciders, which are popular around the world. Even though there are many new flavors of cider, it’s been around for way longer than you may think!
Origins of cider
Cider dates back to ancient times, created first in the Middle East before spreading to Europe and beyond. The English were especially fond of it since the 11th century, likely due to their apple-growing climate.
The main ingredient in cider is apples, though pears and berries can also be used. Yeast is also added during fermentation, which breaks down the sugars in the fruit to produce alcohol. The end result ranges from dry and tart to sweet and fruity, depending on the fermentation time and type of apples used.
Popularity of cider
Cider has become a very common drink for adults in many places. In the past 10 years, it has almost doubled in popularity. This is due to craft and independent cider producers introducing new flavors and styles.
Cider makers are trying different apples and other fruits, as well as different fermentation and aging processes. These create a range of ciders – dry, sour, fruity or sweet – for any taste.
A healthy benefit of cider is its high potassium content. This helps keep bones strong.
Cider Production
Cider has been around for centuries! It’s made from fermented apple juice. The drink started in 17th century England where it was made from orchard apples and served at pubs.
To make cider, apples are pulped and pressed, then yeast is added to turn the juice into alcohol. Flavors like hops, herbs or spices can be added as well.
Nowadays, cider makers use other fruits like pears and juices to create unique tastes. The process is still the same, but modern technologies like flash pasteurization help cider last longer on the shelf. Creative recipes with ginger beer or rosehip syrup are also used to make special ciders.
Types of cider
Cider is an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage made from apples, or sometimes other fruits such as pears. The type of cider depends on which apples and fermentation process were used. There are two main types: Hard cider and Sweet cider.
Hard cider has been fermented and contains alcohol (generally 4-7% ABV). Sweet cider has not been fermented and is non-alcoholic.
Within each type, there are many different styles based on flavor, color, sweetness and more. Some ciders may have added spices or hops for extra flavor or a golden hue with notes of honey. Others may be fizzy with a dry finish and a punch of tartness. Ciders can range from still to sparkling, and from sweet to dry – so they have something for everyone!
Cider ingredients
Cider is an alcoholic drink made from fermented fruit juice, typically apples. To make it, the apples get crushed, and strained to get a clear liquid called “must.” Yeast ferments this must until it has the desired sweetness and alcohol content.
The ingredients used in cider affect its flavor, texture, and quality. Apples are the most common base ingredient. Many cider makers add other fruits like pears or berries to give their ciders unique tastes. Sweeteners, water, tannins, spices, flavors, and preservatives are also added. The combination of these ingredients determines the cider’s BBB rating based on taste.
Cider production process
Harvesting apples from the orchard marks the start of cider production. This happens from August to November, depending on region and type of apple. After gathering, the apples are washed and cut, then pressed to get their juice. The juice is divided into batches to control its composition during fermentation. Sugar is sometimes added to some batches, to make them sweeter.
Fermentation takes several weeks. Yeast transforms the juice’s sugars into alcohol and CO2. To control the process and have consistent products, cider makers keep a close eye on the fermentation temperature. It should not exceed 75°F (24°C). After fermentation, the cider is usually filtered and bottled, or aged for more complexity.
Health Benefits of Cider
Cider is known for its sweeter taste and lower alcohol content, making it popular among drinkers. But is it good for you?
Yes! Studies show cider is high in antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and protect cells. Plus, it’s low in calories, aiding in weight management. Cider also contains vitamins and minerals that boost digestion and the immune system.
Furthermore, polyphenols (antioxidants) in cider may even help reduce the risk of cancer. So if you’re looking for a healthier option than beer or wine, give cider a try!
Nutritional value of cider
Cider is a fermented drink usually made from apples. It can be made from pears or other fruits too. It often has sugar, water and yeast in it. The alcohol content of cider depends on where you live. Generally, it has 4-7% alcohol.
The nutrition in cider depends on the recipe. Usually, 1 serving of 12 ounces (355 ml) has 130 calories, 0 protein, 33 grams of carbs, and 0 fat. Iron, calcium and phosphorus are also in it, though in small amounts. Certain makers add more flavors which could make the calorie count go up. Look at labels to make sure what you’re drinking!
Health benefits of cider
Cider is popular for its health benefits. Studies link regular cider consumption with reduced inflammation, better digestion, and a lower risk of cancer. It also has antioxidants like flavonoids and tannins. These protect the body from oxidative damage and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Plus, apple pectin in cider helps lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and improve gut flora. Plus, cider is full of Vitamin C and phenols, which have anti-aging properties.
But it’s important to drink in moderation. Too much cider can lead to weight gain, dehydration, and other negative side effects.
Popular Cider Brands
Popular Cider Brands are essential for the cider industry. Over the last few years, cider has become incredibly popular. It has a unique taste and can be crafted from apples or pears. Here are some popular ciders to try: Strongbow, Angry Orchard, Woodchuck Apple Cider, Magners Cider, Crispin Cider, and WildCraft Hard Cider.
These brands have loyal fans. They all offer a range of options:
- Strongbow is a top British cider with its sweet taste and iconic golden apples logo.
- Angry Orchard has sweeter ciders with real fruit juice, like Rosé Apple.
- Woodchuck Apple Cider is great for those who want traditional hard cider with its tart green apple flavor.
- Magners is an Irish cider with notes of apples and pears.
- Crispin has Pearsecco with flavors from raspberries, blackberries, cherries, elderberries, blueberries and more!
- WildCraft Hard Cider has special blends of wild ingredients such as yuzu citrus or hibiscus flower, plus wood-aged varieties like English Oak & Vanilla Bean or Maple Bacon & Pecan Pie!
Popular cider brands in the US
Cider is becoming more and more trendy in the US. There are over five-hundred brands now available! Big commercial cideries, craft brewers and local orchards are all making ciders. Some of the most famous commercial brands are Angry Orchard, Strongbow, Woodchuck Hard Cider, Smith & Forge Hard Cider and Crispin Cider. Craft producers include Downeast Cider House, Ace Premium Craftsman’s Hard Apple Cider and Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider.
When picking a cider, get familiar with the labels. Genuine ciders should be made from apples only, and have 4–7% ABV. If you can, search for local ciders for an original flavor that can’t be found anywhere else.
Popular cider brands in the UK
Cider is a popular alcoholic drink enjoyed in the UK. It’s made from fermented apples and is usually served cold. With so many different brands, it can be tricky to find the right one.
Don’t worry though! We have a list of the most popular cider brands in the UK:
- Thatchers Gold has a sweet taste of apple and pear.
- Brothers Cider has been around since 1983, with fruit-forward flavors and a drier finish.
- Rekorderlig, Old Rosie’s Apple Scrumpy, Magners Irish Cider and Bulmers Original Cider are also great choices.
Whatever your preference, these ciders will satisfy your taste buds!
Cider Myths
Myths about cider have been around for ages. Some are true, some aren’t. Let’s clear up the truth:
- Is cider alcohol-free? No! It’s usually 4-10% alcohol by volume.
- Will drinking cider make your skin red and hot? No way! Drinking too much of any booze can have bad effects, but a moderate intake of cider won’t hurt you.
- Does cider spoil quickly? Nope! If stored right, an unopened bottle will last up to a year.
Common cider myths
Cider is a popular alcoholic beverage made from apples or other fruits. There are many myths and misconceptions about it. People think it’s healthier or safer than beer or wine, but it isn’t true. Cider contains alcohol, like any other alcoholic drink. Even though it has less alcohol than beer or wine, it’s still an alcoholic beverage and must be consumed responsibly.
Another misconception is that there are various types of cider, such as sweet, dry, and sparkling. This isn’t true. All ciders are made from apples and sometimes other fruits. The type of apple used determines the flavor. For example, Granny Smith apples will give a tart taste, while Golden Delicious will produce sweeter ciders. Sparkling cider is created using champagne yeasts to naturally carbonate the apple juice. This gives tiny bubbles similar to champagne and creates an effervescent drink.
Debunking cider myths
The cider industry has been around for centuries. Recently, it gained mainstream popularity in the US. It also picked up a few myths and misconceptions. Is cider really as mysterious and misunderstood? Let’s uncover the truth! Here are some common myths:
- Myth 1: Cider is just sweet apple juice. Nope! Cider is made using a fermentation process, like beer or wine. This gives it a slightly alcoholic content. It also creates more complex flavors than apple juice.
- Myth 2: All ciders are gluten-free. Not always! Ciders vary depending on ingredients used in production. It’s important to double check labels before buying.
Conclusion
Cider, definitely legit and yum! It’s crafted from various fruits, apples and pears for example. Flavour-wise it can be sweet or tangy. It’s made by fermenting fresh/frozen fruit pulp with the assistance of yeast. Much more than just apple juice!
Plenty of ciders to explore and discover one that fits your taste. Whether you’re a novice or experienced cider-er, give different brands and styles a go. Cheers!
Summary of findings
Cider is a beloved drink made from fermented apples. It’s yummy, low-alcohol, and very tasty! Plus, it’s healthy too – boosting immunity, aiding digestion, and even assisting with weight loss. There are antioxidants in cider that help battle cancer and benefit heart health.
There are some risks of consuming too much cider – like high sugar levels and allergic reactions – but it’s still considered a legitimate beverage. Many people enjoy it for its flavor and health benefits. When imbibed in moderation, cider can be part of a healthy lifestyle.
FAQs about: Is Cider Legit
Q1: Is cider an alcoholic beverage?
A1: Yes, cider is an alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented apples.
Q2: Does cider contain gluten?
A2: It depends on the type of cider. Gluten-free ciders are available, but many ciders are made with wheat or barley which contains gluten.
Q3: Is cider a healthy option?
A3: Cider does contain some vitamins and minerals, but it is still an alcoholic beverage and should be consumed in moderation.