The difference between wet and dry cider primarily lies in the sugar content and the resulting taste and texture. Wet cider, also known as sweet cider, typically contains a higher amount of residual sugar, while dry cider has very little or no residual sugar.
When we talk about wet cider, we are referring to a beverage that has a noticeable sweetness to it. This sweetness comes from the sugars naturally present in the apples used to make the cider. Wet ciders are often described as fruity, rich, and full-bodied. They can have a syrupy mouthfeel and leave a lingering sweetness on the palate.
On the other hand, dry cider is characterized by its low sugar content. During the fermentation process, the yeast consumes the sugars in the apple juice and converts them into alcohol. If the fermentation is allowed to continue until all the sugars are consumed, the resulting cider will be dry. Dry ciders tend to have a more crisp and tart taste compared to wet ciders. They are often described as refreshing and light, with a clean finish.
The sugar content in cider is measured by its residual sugar, which refers to the amount of sugar left after fermentation. Wet ciders typically have a residual sugar content of around 1-3%, while dry ciders can have less than 0.5% or even be completely sugar-free.
In terms of texture, wet ciders tend to have a thicker and more viscous mouthfeel due to the higher sugar content. They can feel heavier on the palate, almost like drinking a liquid dessert. Dry ciders, on the other hand, have a lighter and crisper mouthfeel, often described as more “effervescent” or “zingy.”
It’s important to note that the terms “wet” and “dry” are relative and can vary depending on personal preference and the specific cider being consumed. Some ciders may fall in between the two extremes and be referred to as semi-dry or semi-sweet.
The main difference between wet and dry cider lies in the sugar content. Wet cider is sweeter and has a thicker, more syrupy texture, while dry cider has very little or no residual sugar, resulting in a crisper and lighter taste.