Brewing apple cider is an art, which involves maintaining a balance of fermentation and flavours. The right brewing process gives a refreshing taste to the beverage. However, choosing the yeast strain is important for making cider drinks. So, find the list of the best yeast strains that manufacturers use for making cider. Depending on their needs, they can choose the right strain.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
s. cerevisiae refers to a species that comprises several other yeast strains. Each strain has its unique flavour characteristics and fermentation profile. Some yeast strains provide neutral, clean flavours, whereas others help with the development of fruity esters. In the cider brewing industry, cerevisiae had high popularity because of its potential to make quick conversion of sugar to alcohol.
Saccharomyces bayanus
Saccharomyces bayanus or champagne yeast is chosen for cider fermentation. It makes the flavour profile clean and crisp. High alcohol tolerance is the special characteristic of this yeast. Moreover, it can help with fermentation at cool temperatures.
Fruit wine yeast
Premier Cuvee and Montrachet are common fruit wine yeast strains intended for fruit juice fermentation. They make the cider crisp and clean. You can make a perfect balance of acidity and apple flavour. However, this strain does not help with quick fermentation. It also produces sulphur, which is undesirable in ciders.
Wild yeast
Wild yeast strains are found naturally on the apple surface. Using the strain, you can produce a range of flavours for your complex and unique cider. But, there is a risk of inconsistent results if you do not use wild yeast properly.
Saison yeast
It is another yeast strain known for producing fruity and spicy characteristics. So, you can use Saison yeast for brewing cider drinks. Your cider will have a dry finish if you choose this yeast strain. But, the strain is not suitable for some ciders.
German wheat beer
You can choose this yeast strain known for phenol compounds and fruity esters. You will get clove-like and banana flavours for a unique product. If you want to experiment with various cider flavours, you may choose this strain.
Can you make apple cider without using yeast?
You can brew cider without adding yeast. However, it makes the fermentation process more challenging. The overall process will be more time-consuming if you do not use yeast. Besides, you may not get the expected flavour in your cider.
Slow fermentation at cool temperatures is an alternative process for apple cider production without yeast. You need to heat the apple juice till it reaches 130F. It will damage the existing bacteria or yeast. Let the juice cool down to 80F.
You can use enzymes in place of yeast, and they are available in liquid or tablet forms.
You have learned about various yeast strains in ciders. Some yeast strains are intended only for making ciders. The yeast you have chosen may affect the style and flavour of your cider. Let your cider undergo fermentation by adding yeast.
