The Specialty grouping includes ciders and perries made with added ingredients, those made with substantial amounts of sugar sources to increase starting gravities, and beverages made from a combination of apple and pear juice (often known as “pear cider”).
The same general characteristics and fault descriptions apply to the Specialty group as to the Standard group, with the exception of the adjuncts allowed within each style category.
Fruit Cider
Hopped Cider
Botanical Cider
Wood Aged Cider
Wood Aged Specialty Cider
Specialty Cider and Perry
Unlimited Cider and Perry
Applewine is no longer recognized as a distinct category. Most applewines should be entered in Specialty Cider and Perry.
New England Cider is no longer recognized as a distinct category. Most New England Ciders should be entered in Wood Aged Cider, Wood Aged Specialty Cider, or Specialty Cider and Perry.
Mead is no longer recognized as a distinct category. Cysers and pear melomels should be entered in Specialty Cider and Perry or Wood Aged Specialty Cider.
Beer entries with apples and/or pears are no longer accepted. Noncommercial entrants should consider the National Homebrew Competition as an alternative. Commercial entrants should consider the Great American Beer Festival Competition and/or the World Beer Cup as alternatives.