Celebrating the Cider Harvest
Last week I was online with one of our clients at Westons Cider, listening to her very real excitement that this year's apple crop would be arriving at the cider mill over the coming days. My client has been working at Weston's for over six years, but the joy of the harvest seemingly never fades. Which, for anyone who wonders, is exactly what made Ann and I want to set up an agency within the food and drink industry. Because this stuff - the simple wonder of apples and potatoes and blackcurrants being harvested each year - just never gets old.
We too, will marvel over the sheer volume of shiny, green, and red Herefordshire apples tumbling from the orchard branches into trailers and again as they are poured into stores, then pressed into liquid, aged in vast oak vats, and finally decanted into bottles and cans and kegs.
Cider is a particularly interesting segment of the food and drink scene for us. Mainly because in the ever-evolving landscape of beverages, one category has been quietly undergoing a renaissance that captures the spirit of tradition while embracing the demands of the modern palate—the modern cider category. Gone are the days of a single, generic cider dominating the market. Today, the modern cider scene is a dynamic and diverse tapestry, weaving together innovation, craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality.
Craft cider makers are pushing boundaries, experimenting with a wide array of apple varieties, yeast strains, and fermentation techniques. From bone-dry, sparkling ciders reminiscent of Champagne to sweet and spiced concoctions that evoke the warmth of autumn, there's a cider for every taste preference.
In a world where the beverage landscape is constantly evolving, the modern cider category stands out as a beacon of creativity, tradition, and community. Craft cider makers, fueled by a passion for their craft and a commitment to quality, are crafting the future of the cider industry. As consumers continue to explore and appreciate the diverse offerings within the modern cider category, the renaissance of this ancient beverage shows no signs of slowing down. Cheers to the makers and enthusiasts who are shaping the exciting and flavorful journey of modern cider.
And, of course, cheers to the apple harvest! 🍎 🚜