Basque cider (sagardoa)

Basque cider, or sagardoa, is a traditional Spanish beverage from the Basque Country made from fermented apples. It is typically cloudy, lightly sparkling, and varies in flavor from tart to mildly sweet, reflecting the diverse apple varieties used. Sleek and refreshing, it’s often enjoyed alongside hearty Basque cuisine, especially grilled meat and environmental dishes. Sagardoa is usually poured from a height to aerate it and enhance its flavors, emphasizing its artisanal, natural roots. This cider holds cultural significance, embodying local fermentation practices and regional identity, and offers a distinctive, authentic alternative to commercial apple ciders.