Yes, you should shake apple cider, especially if it is unfiltered.
Why Shake Apple Cider?
Apple cider is typically made from pressed apples. Unlike apple juice, which is often filtered to remove solids and clarify the liquid, traditional apple cider is left unfiltered. This process allows small particles from the apple pressing process to remain in the liquid.
According to Southern Living, unfiltered apple cider is unpasteurized, and this is the reason consumers may see residue at the bottom of the drink. This residue is natural sediment composed of fine apple solids. To ensure a consistent flavor and texture throughout the bottle, the best solution is to shake the bottled cider to mix this sediment back into the liquid.
Shaking the cider before pouring helps to distribute these natural solids evenly, giving you the full, rich taste and cloudy appearance characteristic of traditional cider.
Types of Apple Cider
While the practice is most important for unfiltered varieties, understanding the different types can clarify why:
- Unfiltered Cider: Contains natural solids and sediment. Shaking is highly recommended.
- Filtered/Pasteurized Cider: Often clearer with little to no sediment. Shaking is less critical but still won't harm the product.
In summary, giving your apple cider a good shake before pouring, particularly the unfiltered kind, ensures you get the intended taste and texture by mixing the natural sediment.
