As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that pear cider is indeed called perry. It is important to understand that cider is traditionally made from apples, while perry is specifically made from the juice of freshly pressed pears. The distinction between the two terms is crucial, as it signifies the authenticity and quality of the beverage.
In the world of craft beverages, using the term “pear cider” is often considered a red flag that the drink in question may not be a genuine, artisanal product. Authentic perry is made from carefully selected varieties of pears, which are hand-picked and then pressed to extract the juice. This juice is then fermented using specific yeast strains that enhance the natural flavors and aromas of the pears.
On the other hand, when a drink is labeled as “pear cider,” it usually suggests that it is a mass-produced, industrial product. These beverages are often made using pear concentrate or flavorings, rather than using the juice of real pears. The term “pear cider” is commonly used by large commercial brands to market beverages that may not meet the standards and quality of traditional perry.
Personally, I have come across several instances where customers have been misled by the term “pear cider.” They have assumed that the beverage they were purchasing was a true perry, only to be disappointed by the artificial taste and lack of authentic pear flavors. This highlights the importance of understanding the distinction between perry and pear cider, and the need to seek out genuine, artisanal products.
To summarize, pear cider is commonly referred to as perry, as it is made from the juice of freshly pressed pears. The term “pear cider” is often associated with mass-produced, industrial beverages that may not meet the standards of authenticity. Therefore, it is advisable to look for products labeled as perry to ensure a genuine and high-quality pear-based beverage.