Overall Impression
A dark gold to brown cider with a very sweet, caramelized, maple sugar-like impression. Well-aged versions often exhibit a dark fruit or sherry-like character.
Aroma / Flavor
Deep, sweet aroma of caramelized sugars that can have a character like maple syrup or brown sugar, with hints of caramel, dried apricots, baked apples, or butterscotch. Aged versions may have elements of dark fruits and often exhibit a sherry-like character. A very light smoke-like character, if present, is not a fault. Acidity and tannins are typically restrained in the balance. High to very high sweetness, yet not cloying. Up to moderate alcohol may be present, but must be well-integrated.
Appearance
Clear to brilliant. Color is much deeper than a Common Cider or Ice Cider, ranging from deep gold to brown.
Mouthfeel
Full body, sometimes with a thick, chewy viscosity. Some examples can have moderate tannin levels, but not to the point where they seem overly astringent or harsh. Carbonation typically still to moderate. Alcohol warmth may be perceived at a low to moderately-low level, sometimes less obvious than the strength would otherwise indicate. Well-aged examples can exhibit a characteristic smoothness.
Comments
Caramelization is desirable, but scorched or burnt flavors are a fault. Differs from Ice Cider in that it should have a character from caramelization, and the acidity is generally lower in the balance.
Characteristic Ingredients
Varieties: Classic North American table fruit such as McIntosh, Cortland, or Spartan
Entry Instructions
Entrants MUST specify starting gravity, final gravity or residual sugar, and alcohol level. Entrants MUST specify carbonation level.
Vital Statistics
- OG
- 1.130 - 1.180
- FG
- 1.040 - 1.072
- ABV
- 9% - 16%
Commercial Examples
- Cideri Milton Cidre de Feu
- Domain Labranche Fire Cider
- Lacroix Feu Sacré
- Petit et Fils Le Jaseux
- Union Libre Fire Cider