Discover Canadian ice cider

One of the most unusual and exclusive liqueurs to be found in gourmet liquor stores in Canada is the ice cider. This particular cider finds its origin in the cold lands of Quebec, where its production began only 20 years ago.

In order to know how to make ice cider: two methods are possible for its production.

The first method of cryoextraction is to harvest the apples at the end of January. The goal is to increase the concentration of their natural sugars by leaving them exposed in the tree to temperatures up to - 17 ° C.

Then these freshly picked apples will be pressed with powerful industrial presses to obtain a precious and rare juice. The juice obtained is left to ferment for about eight months at low temperature.

The other officially recognized method, cryoconcentration. It consists of harvesting very ripe apples at the end of autumn. They are kept cold and pressed just before Christmas. The juice, which is left outside for about six weeks, gradually freezes and acquires a high concentration of sugars. It is then separated from the water and left to ferment for six to seven months.

Ice cider is not apple juice on ice, it is a delicate, delicious and sweet liqueur made from frozen apples. It is also necessary to know how to drink ice cider.

Ice cider is at its best when served chilled, but not iced. If served too cold, the complex aromas will be lost and it will just taste sweet.

Ice cider, like ice wine, is obviously served at the end of a meal. Indeed, it is delicious in itself, like a kind of dessert to sip. If you want to make a side dish, serve it with a piece of fruit, cheese or another dessert.

However, ice cider shouldn't be just for desserts. Its intensity goes remarkably well with very rich and fatty savory dishes, more particularly with foie gras or pâté.

In fact, a ice cider aperitif shines more when its intense sweetness highlights its opposite. This brings added contrast and excitement to both.

And don't forget that it is more intense and more alcoholic than wine or cider and should be served accordingly.

It often happens that it seems difficult to find a cider to your liking, except in the two main production regions, Brittany and Normandy.

Nevertheless, where to find ice cider in France even if this market occupies a small place.

• In supermarkets: Usually

Generally, the cider department is limited to the main producers of large cooperatives.

• At fine grocers and wine merchants:

You will find a fine selection of modern ciders and local ciders matching natural wines, by visiting our online store. click here.