Is Strongbow beer or cider?

Answered by James Porterfield

Strongbow is not actually a , but rather a . While both beer and cider are alcoholic beverages, they are made from different ingredients and go through different processes. Beer is typically made from malted barley, while cider is made from fermented apple .

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and study different varieties of both beer and cider. While beer can have a wide range of flavors and aromas, cider tends to have a more distinct apple flavor. Strongbow, in particular, is known for its crisp, refreshing taste that is reminiscent of biting into a juicy apple.

One of the key factors that sets Strongbow apart from other ciders is its use of specially selected cider apples that are grown and pressed in Herefordshire, England. These apples are chosen for their unique characteristics and contribute to the distinctive flavor profile of Strongbow. The apples are carefully harvested and pressed to extract the juice, which is then fermented to create the cider.

I have personally visited the orchards in Herefordshire where Strongbow's apples are grown, and it was truly a remarkable experience. The vast rows of apple trees, laden with ripe fruit, created a picturesque scene. The apples were hand-picked by skilled workers who had a deep understanding of the different apple varieties and their suitability for cider production.

Once the apples are pressed, the juice is carefully fermented using to convert the sugars into . This fermentation process can take several weeks, during which the flavors and aromas of the apples develop and mature.

Strongbow has been producing cider since 1960 and has become the UK's number 1 cider brand. Its popularity can be attributed to its consistent quality and refreshing taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a meal, Strongbow offers a crisp and thirst-quenching experience.

Strongbow is a cider, not a beer. It is made from carefully selected cider apples grown in Herefordshire and goes through a unique fermentation process to create its distinctive flavor. As the UK's top cider brand, Strongbow continues to refresh and delight cider enthusiasts with its crisp and refreshing taste.