How do you make English cider?

English-style cider is made from bittersweet and bittersharp cider apples. That gives more tannin and less acidity than cider made from table apples. It is usually dry to semi-sweet, full-bodied, 6–9% ABV, and may show smoky or phenolic notes from malolactic fermentation. Varieties include Kingston Black, Dabinett and Yarlington Mill.

Updated 2026-10-20

Key facts

Fruit. Bittersweet and bittersharp apples, e.g. Kingston Black, Stoke Red, Dabinett, Yarlington Mill. [1]
Profile. Full body, moderate to high tannin, lower acidity, often seeming dry. [1]
Numbers. OG 1.050–1.075, FG 0.995–1.015, ABV 6–9%. [1]

What makes a cider English in style?

BJCP describes English cider as originating in the West Country of England, made from bittersweet and bittersharp apples, and higher in tannin and lower in acidity than Common Cider. It may have a phenolic-smoky character from intentional malolactic fermentation (MLF), but strong farmyard notes without spice or smoke suggest a fault. [1] The style name does not imply an appellation — it can be made anywhere. [1]

What should a home maker aim for?

Choose tannic fruit — see best apples for cider.
Ferment toward dry: BJCP says dry is most traditional, and entries are limited to dry through semi-sweet. [1]
Allow MLF if you want the softer, spicier profile; MLF converts sharp malic acid into softer lactic acid. [2]
Keep carbonation modest if you are after a traditional cask feel. [1]

Basic process and equipment: how to make cider at home.

Related answers: english vs american cider · french vs english cider

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.

Questions

Can I use supermarket apples?

Table apples make what BJCP calls Common Cider — lower in tannin and higher in acidity, a different style from English cider. [1]

Sources

C1. Traditional Cider (2025) — Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP)
2025 BJCP Cider Style Guidelines (v2) — Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP)