As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that cider, in general, tends to be higher in carbohydrates compared to beer. This is primarily because cider is made from fermented apples or pears, which naturally contain more sugar than the grains used in beer production. The sugar in the fruit is converted into alcohol during the fermentation process, but some residual sugars may remain, contributing to the higher carbohydrate content in cider.
Unlike beer, which often has “light” or low-carb options available, cider varieties with reduced carbohydrate content are not as common. This is because the majority of ciders are crafted to showcase the natural sweetness and flavors of the fruit, and reducing the sugar content would significantly impact the overall taste and character of the cider.
When it comes to comparing the calorie and carbohydrate content of cider and beer, it's important to note that there can be significant variations depending on the specific brand and style. However, on average, ciders tend to have slightly higher calories and carbs than beer.
To give you a more personal perspective, as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide range of ciders and beers. While there are exceptions, I have generally found that ciders have a sweeter taste profile due to the fruit sugars, which naturally contribute to higher carbohydrate content.
It's worth mentioning that there are some cider producers who offer lower sugar or “light” options, but they are still relatively rare compared to the plethora of low-carb beers available in the market. If you are specifically looking for a low-carb alcoholic beverage, beer might be a better choice for you.
Cider is typically higher in carbohydrates compared to beer due to the greater amounts of sugar present in the fruit used for fermentation. While there are exceptions and some cider producers offer lower sugar options, on average, ciders tend to be slightly higher in calories and carbs than beer.