I’d be happy to provide a detailed answer to your question about the difference between hard cider and normal cider. Let’s dive in!
First of all, it’s important to understand that the term “normal cider” can have different meanings depending on where you are from. In some regions, “normal cider” refers to non-alcoholic apple cider, while in other regions, it may refer to hard cider. For the purpose of this answer, I will assume that “normal cider” refers to non-alcoholic apple cider.
Now, let’s talk about soft cider, which is another name for non-alcoholic apple cider. Soft cider is made by pressing fresh apples to extract the juice. This juice is then typically pasteurized to remove any bacteria or contaminants. Soft cider is often enjoyed during the fall season and is known for its sweet and refreshing taste. It can be served cold or warm, and is often spiced with cinnamon or other flavors to enhance its taste.
On the other hand, hard cider is an alcoholic beverage that is made by fermenting apple juice. The fermentation process converts the natural sugars in the apple juice into alcohol, resulting in a beverage with an alcohol content ranging from 4-8%. Hard cider can be made in a variety of styles, ranging from sweet to dry, and can have varying levels of carbonation. It is often enjoyed as a refreshing alternative to beer or wine.
The process of making hard cider involves several steps. First, the apples are pressed to extract the juice, similar to the process of making soft cider. However, instead of pasteurizing the juice, it is typically left unpasteurized to allow for natural fermentation to occur. Yeast is added to the juice to kick-start the fermentation process, and the mixture is left to ferment for a period of time, usually several weeks. During fermentation, the yeast consumes the sugars in the juice and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide as byproducts. The cider is then filtered and sometimes aged before being bottled or kegged for consumption.
In terms of taste, hard cider can vary greatly depending on the types of apples used, the fermentation process, and any additional ingredients or flavors added. Some hard ciders have a crisp and fruity flavor, while others can be more dry and tart. There are also flavored hard ciders available, such as those infused with berries or spices, which can add an extra layer of complexity to the taste profile.
The primary difference between hard cider and normal cider is the alcohol content. Normal cider, or soft cider, is a non-alcoholic beverage made from fresh apple juice, while hard cider is an alcoholic beverage made by fermenting apple juice. Soft cider is typically enjoyed for its sweet and refreshing taste, while hard cider offers a range of flavors and can be a popular choice for those seeking an alcoholic beverage with a lower alcohol content than beer or wine.
I hope this answers your question and provides you with a clear understanding of the difference between hard cider and normal cider. Cheers!