When it comes to the strength of cider, it's important to note that cider is not beer. While both are fermented beverages, they differ in their ingredients, production methods, and flavor profiles. Cider is made from apples or a blend of apples, whereas beer is typically made from malted barley. This distinction alone can significantly impact the strength of the final product.
In general, cider tends to have a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to beer. Most ciders range from 4% to 6% ABV, with some lighter versions even falling below that range. This lower ABV is partially due to historical liquor tax laws in many countries that categorized cider as a lower-alcohol beverage. Additionally, cider is often marketed as a refreshing and easy-drinking option, appealing to a wide range of consumers who may prefer a milder alcoholic beverage.
However, it's important to note that not all ciders fall within this lower ABV range. There are some craft cider makers who push the boundaries and create stronger ciders. These ciders often showcase more complex and intense flavors, and can sometimes reach ABVs of 7% or higher. These higher ABV ciders are often made using specific apple varieties with higher sugar content or through the addition of additional fermentable sugars.
Personally, I've had the opportunity to taste a variety of ciders with different alcohol strengths. One standout experience was trying a cider that had been aged in oak barrels, which imparted a rich and boozy character reminiscent of a fortified wine. It had an ABV of around 9% and was quite strong compared to the more traditional ciders I had tried before. This particular cider was a sipping experience, meant to be enjoyed slowly and savored.
While cider is generally considered to be a lower-alcohol beverage compared to beer, there are exceptions to this rule. Craft cider makers are increasingly experimenting with higher ABV ciders, offering consumers a wider range of options to explore. So, if you're looking for a stronger cider experience, keep an eye out for those craft ciders that push the boundaries and offer a more robust flavor profile.