"This year's season we will be able to start it as we expected a long time ago: tasting a new cider in the kupelera," explains Araba, Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa. This year, as a novelty, several coffee shops will offer guided tastings before the meal. More shops will also offer the possibility to book a table online.

Average increases of 25% in cider bottle

Euskal Sagardo explained that the sector will increase cider prices by around 25% in 2023, due to the increase in direct costs of the situation: “Increases in inflation also directly affect cider costs, mainly due to the increase in glass, cardboard, energy and gas oil. Everything has risen and cider will inevitably grow, because it is already a low-cost product, to adapt to the current situation.”

“Cider is a space that combines agriculture, industry, hospitality and indigenous distribution systems,” said Sidreros. “It promotes the local economy, creating jobs and wealth. But sidrería, to be viable, needs a price tailored to what it offers. The cider must be recognized and valued.”

Minor but major harvest

As expected, this year’s harvest has been less than last year’s, but “a large apple has come in both tannin and sugar”, according to the representatives of the designation of origin. According to the data provided, about 1.2 million liters of cider have been produced under the designation of origin Euskal Sagardoa. Meanwhile, the Euskal Sagardoa plantations are 48 (2 alavesas, 4 vizcainas and 42 Gipuzkoans) and the ones that produce apple for Sidra Vasca 250. In 2022, 2 million kilos of apples were collected.

As for the characteristics of cider, they added that they will have a slightly higher alcohol content than last year.

Tasting of new cider

Stewards will open their doors gradually from this week. In the meantime, there will be an opportunity to taste a new cider. Today, Wednesday, organized by the Sidra Territory, will be held on New Sidra Day, first at the Sidrería de Astigarraga and then at the Arlena Sidrería. Guests of this year are actresses Aitziber Garmendia and Jon Plazaola. On Thursday, his traditional performance will be held at Sidrería Trebiñu, as well as the Goierri’s stewards at the Urbitarte de Ataun.

The Kukai dance group made the video this season: