Popularly known as Perry, the drink contains 5 to 8 percent alcohol. It originated in the area of present-day France from the time of the Roman Empire. Pears destined for perry are harvested before they ripen and allowed to mature in storage conditions, which distinguishes the process of making the drink from apple cider, as apples are harvested when ripe.
Pear cider is more expensive and less popular than apple cider due to higher production costs - apples can be picked from the tree with machines, while pears are harvested by hand. In addition, the pear tree produces less fruit than the apple tree.
