Beverage style guidelines are used with the permission of the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP). BJCP Style Guidelines Copyright © BJCP, Inc. The most current guidelines are available at www.bjcp.org.
Vital statistics
| Original gravity | 1.040 – 1.055 (10.0 – 13.6 °P) |
|---|---|
| Final gravity | 0.995 – 1.010 (-1.3 – 2.6 °P) |
| Alcohol | 5.0 – 6.5% ABV |
Overall impression
Dry and fresh, with bright acidity that may include light to moderate acetic and wild notes. Rustic and earthy; traditionally unfiltered.
Aroma
Pome fruit and floral with light wild/funky quality; may show leather, spice, or smoke. Tangy, sharp; light acetic and tannin acceptable but not vinegary.
Appearance
Clear to cloudy, most often cloudy. Straw to deep gold. Brief head possible; traditional products pour off carbonation.
Flavor
Dry with tart, sharp acidity; citrus accents possible. Rustic, herbal, hay acceptable. Excessive funk, vinegar, or cheese are faults.
Mouthfeel
Medium body. Traditional versions virtually flat after the pour; modern bottled can range up to sparkling. Little to no astringency except Basque versions.
Comments
Regional differences: Basque more earthy, bitter, sour; Asturias milder, floral, fruity. Traditionally slow-fermented, enjoyed young, poured to release VA/CO₂.
History
Regional style from Asturias, Cantabria, and Basque country using natural co-fermentation of yeast and bacteria; theatrical ‘Escanciar’ pour is traditional.
Characteristic ingredients
Sharp and bittersharp apples (e.g., Regona, Raxao, Limón Montés, Verdialona, De la Riega, San Juan, Errezil).
Style comparison
More rustic/wild and acetic than other C1 styles; typically unfiltered and nearly still when consumed.
Entry instructions
Entrants MUST specify carbonation. Entrants MUST specify sweetness (dry to medium). Entrants MAY specify apple varieties.
Commercial examples
Barrika Basque Country Cider, El Gaitero Sidra, Fanjul Sidra Natural Llagar de Fozana, Gurutzeta Sagardo Sidra Natural, Kupela Natural Basque Cider, Mayador Sidra Natural M. Busto, Trabanco Sidra Natural, Zapiain Sidra Natural