Cider

Cider is not perry, nor is it apple wine in the Franconian sense. Breton-Norman cider has its own tradition, its own apple varieties, and its own production method. 26 products in the range – from dry Cidre Brut to sweet Cidre Doux, including two non-alcoholic alternatives.

Origin and Tradition

Cider is made from a blend of different apple varieties – sweet, sour, bitter, and bittersweet. Breton and Norman producers cultivate historic varieties such as Binet Rouge, Noël des Champs, and Douce Moën, which are hardly suitable as dessert apples but are essential for cider. The result is richer in tannins, more mineral, and more structured than German apple wine made from Boskoop or Rheinischer Bohnapfel.

Brut, Demi-Sec, or Doux?

• Cidre Brut: dry, with 4–7 g/l residual sugar. The most tart variety, pairs well with oysters, seafood, and goat cheese.
• Cidre Demi-Sec: semi-dry, balanced ratio of fruit and acidity. The all-rounder for galettes and hard cheeses.
• Cidre Doux: sweeter, with a lower alcohol content. More for desserts and as a refreshing afternoon drink.

Serving Temperature and Glass

Cider is served at 6–8 °C, well chilled. Breton tradition dictates a stoneware cup – the Bolée. If you don't have one on hand, use a white wine glass or a tulip glass. The classic champagne flute is less suitable, as it too strongly distracts from the subtle apple and floral aromas.

Good to know: Cider has a limited shelf life after opening. Unlike wine, it quickly loses its fizz – noticeably within two to three days. Prefer small bottles or drink quickly.

What pairs with Cider?

The classic pairing: Cidre Brut with oysters and crêpes Galettes de Sarrasin. Beyond that, cider works with hard cheese (especially Comté), grilled pork, savory galettes, and – surprisingly often – with spicy Asian food. The carbonation and apple notes balance heat and spice.

Non-alcoholic Alternative

Two ciders in the range are non-alcoholic – found under non-alcoholic cider. Gently de-alcoholized, with significantly less residual sugar than most apple spritzers and a clearer varietal character.