The term ‘Real’ Cider refers to a product containing at least 85% fresh apple juice, with no artificial flavourings or colourings, using traditional methods of cider making.
Cider – England in a glass
The United Kingdom has the highest per capita consumption of cider, as well as the largest cider-producing companies in the world.
How is Real Cider made?
Cider making has long been a traditional countryside craft, that involves years of experience to get the correct blend of apples for a great tasting cider
The production process for making real cider is simple, and has remained unchanged for centuries:
Select apples, press them, ferment slowly in barrels over the winter and by early summer you will have dry, still, refreshing real cider!
Did you know?
- Real Cider varies in alcohol content from less than 3% ABV in French cidre, up to 8.5% ABV in traditional English ciders.
- All Real Cider is suitable for a vegan and wheat free diet.
- Most Real Cider is produced from a ‘blend’ of different apples, you can also get ’single’ variety ciders in some parts of the UK.
- Learn more Real Cider facts
Mass produced cider
Ciders makers that only produce industrial cider like strongbow or diamond white are not recognised as real ciders.
Instead of being made from all juice as a true cider would be, they’re made with a little bit of apple juice and a bunch of sugar-water. Mass produced cider sold in the UK is mostly made from imported apple concentrate,artificial colourings, sweeteners, and preservatives are added to make up for the apple character that isn’t there. The liquid is then filtered, pasteurised to kill the yeast, and kept and served under carbon dioxide pressure.
Champion the Real Cider movement!
With consumers demanding higher quality in the food and drink industry I feel it’s time to champion the local producers who are carefully crafting natural real cider, using sustainable methods. By the producers carrying on this heritage means we can enjoy real cider whoever and wherever we live.
What is the Real Cider Community?
The Real Cider community web site is all about championing the ‘Real’ Cider movement! It’s aims are to support cider producers, pubs, and cider fans by providing the latest information on how to enjoy traditional ‘Real’ Cider.
Get involved, enjoy Real Cider and believe in England winning the world cup!
