What is cidre de poire?

Key facts

• Poiré = perry. The French name for fermented pear juice.
• One AOP. Domfront is the only French AOP for a poiré. [1]
• Plant de Blanc. More than 40% of the blend, giving softness and roundness. [1]
• Bottle-fermented bubbles. Prise de mousse happens naturally in the bottle. [1]

What is AOP Domfront poiré like?

INAO describes it as pale to golden yellow, with fruity and floral aromas, fine bubbles, and a balance of softness and fresh acidity with a light astringent finish. It is made traditionally from fresh pure juice. [1]

Where is it made?

The appellation covers the "Bas Domfrontais" where Brittany, Normandy and Maine meet: 39 whole communes and 3 partial ones in the Orne, Manche and Mayenne departments. INAO notes these perry pear trees can live up to three centuries. [1] The same area makes Calvados Domfrontais — see which fruit is used to make calvados.

Is it different from English perry?

In style terms, BJCP lists French poirés among the commercial examples of Heirloom Perry, the tannic perry-pear style. [2] More: where is perry made.

Related answers: perry vs pear cider · how is perry made

Find it on Cider Radar

• Browse the map for cideries, bars and shops near you.
• Open maker profiles for site, social and place links, and check what styles they list.
• Open the map: app.ciderradar.com · iPhone · Android

Cider, perry, calvados and pommeau are alcoholic drinks. Enjoy responsibly and follow the legal drinking age where you live.