Crab apples have come a long way from being considered useless trees or simply used for making jellies. In recent years, these small fruits have found a new purpose in the thriving cider scene. With their unique flavors and characteristics, crab apples are now being welcomed and appreciated for their contribution to the world of cider-making.
One popular variety of crab apple that is highly valued in the cider-making industry is the Wickson crab. This particular variety is not only used for making delicious jellies but also finds its place in cider blends. Its distinct flavor adds depth and complexity to ciders, making them stand out from the crowd.
Another noteworthy crab apple variety is the Manchurian Crabapple. Despite its small size, these little fruits pack a huge flavor punch. When used in cider-making, Manchurian Crabapples offer a full-bodied and intensely-flavored experience similar to that of a port wine or French Pommeau, but without the added brandy. The dominant flavors of black cherry, vanilla, and dried apricot, along with bold tannins and crisp acidity, create a truly unique and enjoyable cider.
While many apple varieties can be used to create flavorful hard cider, there are a few specific varieties that are particularly well-suited for this purpose. Galas, Gravensteins, Newtown Pippins, Rome Beauties, and Winesaps are just a few examples of common apple varieties that can add amazing nuances and depth to hard cider. These apples bring their own unique flavors and characteristics to the cider-making process, resulting in a more complex and enjoyable drinking experience.
When it comes to making cider, the choice of apple variety is crucial. The flavors, acidity, tannins, and overall characteristics of the apples used will greatly impact the final product. By carefully selecting and blending different apple varieties, cider-makers can create ciders that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Crab apples have found a newfound appreciation in the cider-making industry. No longer considered useless or only suitable for making jellies, these small fruits bring unique flavors and characteristics to the world of cider. Whether it's the Wickson crab or the Manchurian Crabapple, these varieties add depth, complexity, and a full-bodied experience to ciders. Additionally, other apple varieties such as Galas, Gravensteins, Newtown Pippins, Rome Beauties, and Winesaps can also contribute amazing nuances and depth to hard cider. So, next time you enjoy a glass of cider, remember the humble but essential role that crab apples play in creating this delightful beverage.
Are Crab Apples Good For Cider?
Crab apples are indeed good for cider production. While they were historically considered to be of little value, their popularity has grown in recent years due to their unique flavor profiles and the resurgence of craft cider making.
Here are some reasons why crab apples are beneficial for cider production:
1. Flavor: Crab apples possess a tart and complex flavor that adds depth and character to ciders. They can contribute a pleasant acidity and astringency, which helps balance the sweetness of other apple varieties used in the cider-making process.
2. Tannins: Tannins are natural compounds found in the skins and flesh of certain fruits, including crab apples. They add bitterness and astringency to cider, enhancing the overall taste and mouthfeel. Crab apples are particularly rich in tannins, making them valuable for producing ciders with a robust and full-bodied profile.
3. Aromatics: Crab apples can offer a wide range of aromatic qualities, including floral, herbal, and spicy notes. These aromatics can greatly enhance the complexity and fragrance of the final cider product.
4. Natural Yeast: Crab apples often harbor wild yeast strains on their skins, which can be used for spontaneous fermentation. This can add unique and unpredictable flavors to the cider, contributing to the overall complexity and authenticity of the final product.
5. Pollination: Crab apple trees are excellent pollinators for other apple varieties. Their presence in orchards can improve the quality and yield of other apple crops, making them valuable from an agricultural standpoint.
6. Disease resistance: Crab apple trees are generally more resistant to diseases and pests compared to many cultivated apple varieties. This makes them a reliable choice for cider makers who prefer sustainable and low-intervention farming practices.
It's important to note that not all crab apples are suitable for cider production. Some varieties may be too bitter or have undesirable flavors. Cider makers often select specific cultivars or blend crab apples with other apple varieties to achieve the desired flavor profile and balance.
Crab apples have found their place in the thriving cider scene due to their unique characteristics and contributions to the complexity and flavor of ciders.
What Does Crabapple Cider Taste Like?
Crabapple cider, particularly the Manchurian variety, offers a unique and intense flavor profile. It is characterized by its full-bodied nature, similar to that of port wine or French Pommeau, but without the addition of brandy. Here are the key flavor notes you can expect from crabapple cider:
1. Black Cherry: The cider has a dominant black cherry flavor, which contributes to its overall richness and depth. This fruity note adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the taste.
2. Vanilla: Another prominent flavor in crabapple cider is vanilla. This adds a creamy and slightly sweet undertone to the cider, enhancing its overall mouthfeel and providing a pleasant aromatic experience.
3. Dried Apricot: The cider also boasts flavors of dried apricot. This adds a hint of tanginess and a subtle fruity sweetness, contributing to the overall complexity of the cider's taste profile.
4. Bold Tannins: Crabapple cider tends to have bold tannins, which are responsible for the dry and slightly astringent sensation in the mouth. These tannins give the cider a robust character and contribute to its overall structure.
5. Crisp Acidity: Alongside the bold tannins, crabapple cider typically exhibits crisp acidity. This acidity provides a refreshing and lively sensation, balancing out the sweetness and adding brightness to the overall flavor profile.
Manchurian Crabapple cider offers a flavor experience that is intense, full-bodied, and bursting with black cherry, vanilla, and dried apricot flavors. The bold tannins and crisp acidity further enhance the taste, creating a cider that is both complex and enjoyable to drink.
Conclusion
Crab apples have come a long way from being considered useless trees to becoming a valuable addition to the thriving cider scene. Previously known for their use in jellies or as pollinators, crab apples have now found their place in cider blends, adding unique flavors and depth to the final product.
One popular variety of crab apple used in cider is the Wickson crab. Known for its versatility, it contributes to the full-bodied and intensely-flavored experience of the cider. With dominant flavors of black cherry, vanilla, and dried apricot, this cider resembles the richness of port wine or French Pommeau, but without the addition of brandy. The presence of bold tannins and crisp acidity further enhances the overall taste profile.
While most apples can be used in the production of hard cider, certain varieties are particularly well-suited for the task. Galas, Gravensteins, Newtown Pippins, Rome Beauties, and Winesaps are some common apple types that can add amazing nuances and depth to the final cider product. These varieties bring their own unique flavors and characteristics to the blend, resulting in a more complex and satisfying drinking experience.
As the cider industry continues to grow and evolve, crab apples are now being welcomed and appreciated for their contribution to the craft. Their flavors and qualities, once overlooked, are now being harnessed to create exceptional ciders that appeal to a wide range of palates. So, the next time you enjoy a glass of cider, take a moment to appreciate the role that crab apples play in making your drinking experience truly delightful.
