Wood Aged Specialty Cider is intended for any Specialty Cider in which wood and/or barrel character is a notable part of the overall flavor profile. Please refer to the Wood Aged Cider style category for additional information.
Introduction
There is a wide continuum of intensity of flavor based on proportion of wood used to the cider and previous use of the wood. There may also be significant subtlety in flavors in the base cider. Consequently, subtlety of wood and/or beer/wine/spirit and/or specialty ingredient notes will not be regarded as faults provided they are detectable, recognizable, and balanced.
Aroma/Flavor
The cider character must always be present, and must fit with wood/barrel character and specialty ingredient character.
Appearance
Clear to brilliant. Color should be that of the base Specialty Cider unless wood/barrel character is expected to contribute color.
Mouthfeel
Average body, may show tannic (astringent) or heavy body as determined by wood/barrel character.
Entry Instructions
Entrants must list all additional ingredients and indicate what flavor notes (oak, whiskey, rum, etc.) judges should expect in the Additional Information section.
Vital Statistics
ABV: 5 – 12%
Results
- Commercial Division (2018-2023)
- Noncommercial Division (2018-2023)