As a sommelier and brewer, I can confidently tell you that there is no alcohol in sparkling apple cider. The confusion often arises because of the term “cider,” which can refer to both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages.
To understand why sparkling apple cider does not contain alcohol, it's important to know how it is made. Sparkling apple cider is essentially carbonated apple juice. The apples are pressed to extract the juice, which is then filtered and pasteurized to remove any impurities. After that, carbonation is added to create the delightful fizziness that we associate with sparkling cider.
The key difference between sparkling apple cider and hard cider lies in the fermentation process. Hard cider is made by allowing the apple juice to ferment for a longer duration. During fermentation, yeast consumes the natural sugars in the juice and converts them into alcohol. This process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the desired alcohol content.
On the other hand, sparkling apple cider undergoes a different process. The juice is carbonated before any fermentation occurs, ensuring that no alcohol is produced. This makes sparkling cider a popular choice for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages but still want to enjoy the refreshing taste of apples with a touch of effervescence.
It's worth noting that some brands may offer a “non-alcoholic” version of hard cider, which is essentially a cider that has undergone the fermentation process but with the alcohol content removed. This is achieved through various methods, such as distillation or filtration, to separate the alcohol from the cider. However, it's important to read the label carefully to ensure that you are purchasing a truly non-alcoholic product.
In my personal experience, sparkling apple cider has been a favorite among both children and adults at celebratory events. Its crisp and bubbly nature adds a festive touch to any gathering, without the worry of alcohol content. I have often witnessed friends and family members, who do not consume alcohol, enjoying the taste and effervescence of sparkling cider as an alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
To sum it up, sparkling apple cider does not contain alcohol. It is a non-alcoholic beverage made by carbonating apple juice, while hard cider is produced through fermentation, resulting in an alcoholic beverage. So, when you reach for a bottle of sparkling apple cider, you can savor its delightful flavors without any concerns about alcohol content.