Does Spanish cider have alcohol?
Yes, Spanish cider (sidra) has alcohol: it is a fermented drink. BJCP's guidelines give about 5–6.5% ABV for the traditional Spanish style from Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. Strength varies by producer, so check the label. In Spain, as in most of Europe, "cider" means the fermented drink, not apple juice.
Updated
Key facts
- Fermented by definition. BJCP notes that outside the US, "cider" refers to the fermented product. [1]
- Typical strength. BJCP's Spanish Cider style has a range of about 5–6.5% ABV; its vital statistics are general guidelines, not absolutes. [2]
- Style. Made from sharp and bittersharp apples, with a natural co-fermentation of yeast and bacteria; dry and fresh, traditionally unfiltered. [2]
- Two kinds of natural cider. The Sidra de Asturias PDO distinguishes traditional sidra (unfiltered, poured from a height; see how to pour Spanish cider) and filtered cider. [3]
How strong is Spanish cider compared with other ciders?
| Style (BJCP 2025) | ABV range |
|---|---|
| Spanish Cider | 5–6.5% [2] |
| French Cider | 3–6% [2] |
| English Cider | 6–9% [2] |
| Common Cider | 4.5–8% [2] |
Because the traditional pour serves small amounts (a culete) at a time, it's easy to lose count. Units depend on strength and volume, not on the size of each pour. [4]
Is there sparkling Spanish cider?
Yes. The Sidra de Asturias PDO also covers natural sparkling cider, usually dry and brut-style, made by a second fermentation in a closed container: in the bottle (traditional method) or in a pressure tank (Charmat). Its gas is always produced by fermentation, never added, and it is served in a tulip glass at 6–8 °C. [5]
Related answers: how to pour Spanish cider · how many units are in cider
Find it on Cider Radar
- Spain: 100 makers · Asturias: 43 · Basque Country: 41 (as of 2026-10-02).
- Guide: Spanish sidra
Cider, perry, calvados and pommeau are alcoholic drinks. Enjoy responsibly and follow the legal drinking age where you live.
We don't give health advice. For questions about your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Questions
Is Basque cider different from Asturian cider?
BJCP describes Basque cider as generally earthier and more bitter than Asturian cider; both are traditionally dry and unfiltered. [2]
Is Spanish cider sweet?
Usually not. BJCP describes the traditional Spanish style as dry and fresh, with bright acidity. [2]
Sources
- 2025 BJCP Cider Style Guidelines (Introduction) — Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP)
- 2025 Cider Style Guidelines: C1 Traditional Cider — BJCP
- Natural cider — Consejo Regulador DOP Sidra de Asturias
- Calculating alcohol units — NHS
- Natural Sparkling Cider — Consejo Regulador DOP Sidra de Asturias