C2B Cider with Other Fruit

2015 edition of the BJCP Style Guidelines

Vital Statistics

OG
1.045 – 1.070
FG
0.995 – 1.010
IBU
SRM
ABV
5.0% - 9.0%

Description

Aroma: The cider character must be present and must fit with the other fruits. It is a fault if the added fruit(s) completely dominate; a judge might ask, Would this be different if neutral spirits replaced the cider? A fruit cider should not be like an alco-pop. Oxidation is a fault.

Appearance: Clear to brilliant. Color appropriate to added fruit, but should not show oxidation characteristics. (For example, red berries should give red-to-purple color, not orange.)

Flavor: The cider character must be present and must fit with the other fruits. It is a fault if the added fruit(s) completely dominate; a judge might ask, Would this be different if neutral spirits replaced the cider? A fruit cider should not be like an alco-pop. Oxidation is a fault.

Mouthfeel: Substantial. May be significantly tannic, depending on fruit added.

Impression: Like a white wine with complex flavors. The apple character must marry with the added fruit so that neither one dominates the other.

Entry Instructions: Entrants MUST specify carbonation level (3 levels). Entrants MUST specify sweetness (5 categories). Entrants MUST specify all fruit(s) and/or fruit juice(s) added.

Commercial Examples: [US] West County Blueberry-Apple Wine (MA), Bellwether Cherry Street (NY), Uncle John’s Fruit Farm Winery Apple Cherry, Apple Blueberry, and Apricot Apple Hard Cider (MI)