Mixing apple cider with beer is the current trend in breweries and distilleries across the United States and Canada. Accordingly, read on to discover how to take advantage of this new business opportunity.
Why Apple Cider with Beer is taking over the Beer World
To begin with, consumers have widely embraced the combination of fruit and beer:
The Rise of Hybrid Flavors: Consumers Seeking New Experiences
This product blends the fruity freshness of cider and, consequently, with the complexity of beer hops, attracting especially those looking for refreshing flavors with a craft touch.
Market Data in the U.S. and Canada
According to market analysis, in the United States, the craft beer market share increased by 13.3% (Arthur, 2024). Furthermore, as for cider, consumption tends to rise during summer and fall, especially in states like Washington and Vermont, where per capita demand exceeds the national average (IWSR, 2024). Indeed, this demonstrates strong regional demand.
Meanwhile, in Canada, craft beer production reached 1.78 million hectoliters in 2023 and, importantly, is expected to grow to 2.42 million hectoliters by 2032 (IMARC, 2025).
How this Fusion is Redefining Brewery and Distillery Menus
Now, let's understand how the mix of cider and beer can refresh your customer offering.
New Pairing and Seasonal Opportunities
The combination of craft beers and ciders with seasonal fruits, like mango in the summer or apple in the fall, opens new pairing possibilities. As a result, these fusions enhance natural flavors and allow the creation of seasonal drink menus.
Competitive Advantages over Traditional Beverages
Blending apple cider with beer creates a less bitter, more accessible flavor profile, thereby attracting non-beer drinkers. In other words, its versatility and lower alcohol content set it apart from traditional beverages.
Success Stories: Those who have already embraced the mix
Next, in North America, several craft breweries have successfully combined beer and apple cider, achieving positive commercial results and strong public reception:
- Yonder Brewing & Blending (Somerset): collaborated with Pilton Cider to launch "Serpents," a Lambic ale with apples that balances the dryness of cider with the sweetness of malt.
- Benny Boy Brewing (Los Angeles): introduced the city's first combination of brewery and cidery.
Production and Marketing of Apple Cider with Beer
Technical Aspects to Consider in Production
These include, for example:
- Balancing the acidity of cider with the bitterness of hops.
- Controlling fermentation to avoid off-flavors.
- Using compatible yeasts for stability.
Branding Strategies and Attractive Labeling
Also consider:
- Highlighting freshness and craft fusion.
- Using fruity colors and evocative names.
- Emphasizing the natural origin of your ingredients.
Is this trend right for your business?
Quick Checklist to Assess Viability
- First: Do you have access to high-quality cider or apple purée?
- Next: Are your customers asking for alternative options?
- Lastly: Do you have a flexible production setup?
Tips for Evaluating the Mix with Minimal Risk
- Launch a limited batch during peak season.
- Organize tastings and sampling events.
- Track your sales compared to traditional beers.
In short, apple cider with beer is an excellent option to refresh your menu. Check out all the products we offer at Bierfrucht products and create unforgettable combinations.
References
Arthur, R. (2024, April 18th). US craft beer: The latest market statistics. https://www.beveragedaily.com/Article/2024/04/18/US-craft-beer-The-latest-market-statistics/
IMARC. (2023). Canada Craft Beer Market Report by Product Type (Ales, Lagers, and Others), Age Group (21-35 Years Old, 40-54 Years Old, 55 Years Above), Distribution Channel (On-Trade, Off-Trade), and Region 2025-2033. https://www.imarcgroup.com/canada-craft-beer-market
IWSR. (2024, December 12th). Cider sees interesting seasonal variation in the US. https://www.theiwsr.com/insight/cider-sees-interesting-seasonal-variation-in-the-us/
The British Guild of Beer Writers. (2021, March 17th). Yonder launches craft beer and cider hybrid, Serpents. https://www.beerguild.co.uk/news/yonder-launches-craft-beer-and-cider-hybrid-serpents/
