The world of cider is wild! Apples! Pears! But quince too! Custard Apple. Nashi! Orchard fruit is...Read More...
The world of cider is wild! Apples! Pears! But quince too! Custard Apple. Nashi! Orchard fruit is diverse and wild but cider can often be limited to sad little cans at the back of old bottle-shops, whole sections full of the sweet stuff. Whilst there’s a place for this occasionally – no shaming – there’s so, so much more out there. Whether you’re smashing a little can in the summertime glow, or sipping a finely beaded, Champagne-like glass of Bordelet, a perky little Perry to get you through that last bit of work on a Friday arvo, a hybrid of hibiscus, quince, cherries and pear that is equal parts giggles and flirt, there is literally a type of drink within the cider realm to make a friend of almost anyone. But what is considered a natural cider? With natural ciders this means smaller levels of production, with as little intervention as possible; they are made similarly to natural wine. Just apples, yeast, love and time. Heirloom apples are as exciting and as varied as wine grapes, and lovers of natural wines should spend some time deep diving into this sometimes forgotten category. A wonderful reference is the instagram, @pommequeen. Do it! Ciders are made worldwide, but there are places where it is very traditional. Alpine regions, Switzerland, North Italy, Normandy, Brittany...these are where you find some of the most complex and intriguing expressions in the world. It can be aged, losing its bubble but gaining its eloquence, complexity and vigour. We’re doing some wonderful experiments with the stuff here in Australia, blending apples and grapes like Konpira Maru and FIN, wholesome expressions of site from Manon, Lucy Margaux, Momento Mori. Or, explore something wild from Yahou Fatal or little sites in Spain. It’s also simply, the perfect hangover drink – a glass of apple or pear fresh cider will bring you from the edge of death screaming back to life. Browse our invigorating selection all day and take a punt on something new!
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