Ciders
In Mzansi, cider isn’t just a drink—it’s a whole vibe. Fruity, fizzy, and easy on the palate, cider has become a favourite dop for many South Africans. Whether it’s a ladies’ night out, a chillas with the crew, or a braai under the summer sun, cider is the go-to for those who want something lekker but not too heavy.
What’s the Deal with Cider?
Served ice-cold, often with a slice of lemon or lime, ciders hit the spot in our hot climate—and have become the drink of choice for many, especially our sisters who like their drink with a little class, a little sparkle, and a whole lot of flava.
Cider is an alcoholic drink brewed from fermented fruit juice, usually apples or pears. But here in South Africa, we take it a step further—think berry blends, naartjie notes, and even fynbos-infused flavours. It’s that crisp, slightly sweet refreshment that’s perfect when beer feels too bitter and spirits too strong.
The Rise of Cider in Mzansi
Cider’s popularity shot up in the early 2000s, and a big part of that wave? South African women.
Cider has long been seen as a lighter, more stylish option—and for many ladies, it’s been the perfect middle ground between too-sweet coolers and too-bitter beers. From Hunters Dry in the club to Savanna Light at a baby shower or after tears, ciders became the it-girl drink, balancing taste and vibe.
Now, it’s no longer just a “ladies’ drink”—ouens are just as quick to crack a cold one—but we still salute the queens who made it pop.
Big Names We All Know
These are the ciders you’ll spot at any party, tavern, or shisanyama:
- Savanna Dry – Iconic. Crisp. Dry. Often seen with a lemon wedge and a lot of sass. A huge hit with boss babes who like their drink clean and confident.
- Hunters Gold / Hunters Dry – Slightly sweeter than Savanna, and a solid fave among ladies who groove. Perfect for those who like a little sugar with their gees.
- Strongbow – Offering fruitier blends, this one appeals to those looking for a softer, more laid-back cider with floral notes.
These brands have become part of the culture, seen in everything from tiktok dances to memes. Just say “Savanna” and someone will hit you with “It’s dry, neh!”
Craft Ciders – Class with a Local Twist
Mzansi’s queens of flavour are also leading the charge in trying out the craft cider scene, which brings drier, more artisanal options with locally sourced ingredients. Many women are exploring these alternatives for the aesthetic, the taste, and the experience—whether it’s a tasting in the Winelands or sipping a bottle at a rooftop bar in Braam.
Top local craft picks include:
- Loxtonia Cider – Made in Ceres. Fresh, farm-style cider perfect for ladies who love clean, natural flavours.
- Cluver & Jack – Elgin-based, classy, and a bit drier—perfect for soft life vibes.
- Sxollie Cider – Proudly African and unapologetically stylish. A cider brand that speaks directly to young, bold, fashion-forward consumers, especially women who want their drink to match their energy.
The Culture – For the Gents and the Ladies
Cider fits perfectly into every kind of Mzansi moment:
- At the groove – You’ll see groups of ladies ordering buckets of Savanna or Hunters and vibing out with their friends.
- At the braai – A chilled cider cuts through the heat and spice of grilled meat like a charm.
- At the stockfella – From the mother-in-law to the young slay queen, everyone’s got a favourite cider.
- At the club – Cider’s a top pick when you want to dance without being too lit too quick.
Types
| Type of Cider | Description | Flavor Profile | Typical ABV (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Cider | Low residual sugar; fully fermented | Crisp, tart, little to no sweetness | 5–7% |
| Sweet Cider | Contains more residual sugar or sweeteners | Fruity, smooth, noticeably sweet | 4–6% |
| Semi-Dry / Semi-Sweet | Balanced between dry and sweet | Mild sweetness with fresh apple character | 4.5–6.5% |
| Sparkling Cider | Carbonated naturally (bottle-conditioned) or force-carbonated | Bubbly, light, often refreshing | 4–8% |
| Still Cider | Non-carbonated | Smooth, wine-like texture | 5–7% |
| Ice Cider | Made from frozen apples or juice, concentrated sugars | Very sweet, rich, dessert-like | 9–13% |
| Rosé Cider | Made with red-fleshed apples or blended with red fruit | Light pink color, fruity and floral notes | 4–6% |
| Hopped Cider | Infused with hops, like beer | Citrusy, herbal, bitter-sweet | 5–7% |
| Herbal/Spiced Cider | Flavored with cinnamon, cloves, herbs, etc. | Seasonal, warming, aromatic | 4–6% |
| Traditional English Cider | Often cloudy, fermented with wild yeasts, sometimes tannic | Funky, earthy, full-bodied | 6–8% |
| French Cidre (Cidre Bouché) | Bottle-conditioned, often lower ABV, uses traditional methods | Funky, fruity, slightly sweet and effervescent | 3–5% |
| Spanish Sidra (Asturian/Basque) | Wild-fermented, poured from height to aerate | Very tart, funky, still or slightly sparkling | 5–6% |
Alcohol is not for persons under the age of 18!