C2D. Ice Cider

This is a cider style in which the juice is concentrated before fermentation either by freezing fruit before pressing or freezing juice and removing water. Fermentation stops or is arrested before reaching dryness. The character differs from Applewine in that the ice cider process increases not only sugar (hence alcohol) but acidity and all fruit flavor components proportionately. No additives are permitted in this style; in particular, sweeteners may not be used to increase gravity. This style originated in Quebec in the 1990s.

Appearance

Brilliant. Color is deeper than a standard cider, gold to amber.

Aroma / Flavor

Fruity, smooth, sweet-tart. Acidity must be enough to prevent it being cloying.

Mouthfeel

Full body. May be tannic (astringent and/or bitter) but this should be slight, to moderate at most.

Characteristic Ingredients

Apple Varieties: Usually North American classic table fruit such as McIntosh or Cortland.

Entry Instructions

Entrants MUST specify starting gravity, final gravity or residual sugar, and alcohol level. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (3 levels).

Vital Statistics

OG

1.130 - 1.180

FG

1.060 - 1.085

ABV

7% - 13%

Commercial Examples

US Eden Ice Cider Company (various), Champlain Orchards (various). Canada Domaine Pinnacle (various, Quebec), Les Vergers de la Colline (various, Quebec).