What are TTB rules for hard ciders?
US TTB rules for hard cider centre on the federal hard-cider tax class in 26 USC 5041(g): still cider from apples or pears only, at least 0.5% and under 8.5% ABV, within a CO₂ limit. Products outside that class may be taxed and labelled as wine or other categories. The TTB Cider Fact Sheet summarises the class for producers.
Updated
Key facts
- Statute. 26 USC 5041(g) hard-cider tax class. [1]
- Limits. ≥0.5% and <8.5% ABV; still (CO₂ cap); apple or pear. [2]
- Labels. TTB FAQs cover naming when flavours are added. [3]
What does the hard-cider tax class require?
Still cider from apples or pears in the ABV band above qualifies for the hard-cider rate; sparkling or fruit-flavoured drinks may be treated as wine. [1] [2] Strength context: alcohol content of cider. Wine line: apple cider vs apple wine.
How do labels interact with the tax class?
Below 7% ABV, some labelling questions interact with FDA food rules; at higher strengths TTB wine labelling applies more fully — see TTB cider FAQs. [3] Flavoured products may need a statement of composition. Everyday strength context for drinkers: alcohol content of cider.
Related answers: alcohol content of cider · apple cider vs apple wine
Related on Cider Radar
- Glossary: hard cider
- 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
Sources
- 26 U.S. Code § 5041 – Imposition and rate of tax (wines) — Legal Information Institute, Cornell Law School
- Cider Fact Sheet — TTB
- Cider FAQs — Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)