escanciado

Escanciado is a traditional method of serving cider, particularly in the Asturias region of Spain. The defining characteristic of escanciado is the act of pouring the cider from a significant height into a glass held at a lower level. This technique is not merely for show; it serves a specific purpose. The forceful aeration of the cider as it falls through the air creates a fine mist of small bubbles, known as "llegar al ojo" (to reach the eye). This aeration is believed to enhance the cider's aroma and flavor, making it more vibrant and refreshing.

The process involves holding the cider bottle, often a traditional glass bottle with a cork stopper, with one hand extended upwards. The other hand holds the glass, which is typically a wide, thin glass, with the arm extended downwards. The cider is then poured in a thin stream from the raised bottle, aiming to create the desired spray upon impact with the bottom of the glass. After a small amount of cider has been poured and consumed, the remaining cider in the glass is quickly drunk to preserve its effervescence. This ritual is deeply ingrained in Asturian culture and is a common sight in its cider houses, known as sidrerías.