The International Cider Salon SISGA’19 awarded Valverán 20 Apples the Gold Medal in the Ice Ciders category. Last Friday, the awards were presented during the gala dinner at the NH Gijón Hotel Restaurant, marking the ninth edition of the event.
A professional jury and a specialized tasting committee evaluated the 85 ciders from 12 countries: Spain, Italy, Portugal, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Japan, and Finland.
This innovative product, made by Masaveu Wineries at its cider mill in Sariego, was recognized in July as the Best Ice Cider at the Nava Cider Competition. Over the past few years, it has received numerous awards, including the Gold Medal from the Gilbert & Gaillard Guide 2018, first prize in the ice cider category at the International Ciders of Gala Salon 2017, among other prestigious national and international competitions. Additionally, this is the second time that Valverán Ice Cider has been awarded in this competition, as it won first prize in the same category in 2017.
Valverán 20 Apples Ice Cider
Valverán was founded in 1999, becoming the first and most exclusive ice cider on the Iberian Peninsula. The name Valverán 20 Apples comes from the number of apples required to produce each 37.5 cl bottle, as it contains the concentrated must of at least 20 apples.
This beverage is produced through a complex process that involves freezing at -20°C, followed by fermentation for 10 months and aging on fine lees for 12 months. The entire process usually takes around two years from the moment the apples are harvested until the bottle reaches the consumer, while preserving its initial fruity and sensory qualities.
To achieve this exclusive and highly valued product, the visionary character of José Masaveu, the general manager of Masaveu Wineries, was essential, along with nearly ten years of research and trials. It is the most personal project of this member of the Masaveu family and the only one that has its roots in his homeland, Asturias.
Today, 35 hectares located in the Denomination of Origin Protected Sidra de Asturias, specifically in the Finca El Rebollar in Sariego (Asturias), with 20,000 apple trees of 11 different varieties (Blanquina, Xuanina, Regona, Raxao, Fuentes, Collaos, De la Riega, Verdialona, Perico, Durona de Tresali, and San Roqueña), allow the production of 18,000 bottles of this distinguished ice cider, full of nuances. It can be described as a sensual, fresh, and surprising beverage that harmonizes perfectly with foie, cheeses, and lightly sweet desserts.
