English Apple Cider: History and Origins

In England and, more generally, in the United Kingdom, there is a long tradition of producing alcoholic beverages, particularly apple cider. This is because the area is particularly suitable for the development of apple orchards and the cultivation and harvesting of the fruit from which cider is made

Through a lengthy process, which involves fermenting the sugars contained within the apple juice, and a waiting period that can last up to three years, this famous beverage is created, produced in various qualities depending on the type of apple chosen. Let’s see how English apple cider was born, its history, and an overview of the best producers.

English Apple Cider: History and Origins

Although apple cider is a typical beverage of Anglo-Saxon countries today, its origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt. The literature on the subject is extensive and also tells how Julius Caesar imported this beverage, bringing it to Rome and then throughout the Roman Empire.

In England, the introduction of apple cider is attributed to William the Conqueror. The Duke of Normandy introduced one of the variants produced in Northern Europe, which is the type of beverage we know and still consume today.

We are in the eleventh century, and it is also in this era that the origin of the name is found. Previously, this beverage was referred to with terms such as “apple juice” and “apple wine.” The word “cider” is probably of Greek or Hebrew origin.

Types of Cider

Over the centuries, various cider-making techniques have been introduced, leading to the birth of numerous varieties of this beverage, including English cider.

In general, the types of cider change based on the degree of fermentation of the apple juice, aging, and the addition or not of other ingredients during preparation.

Here are some types:

• Dry cider: Obtained with a shorter fermentation. This way, the beverage has a lower sugar content and is less sweet compared to a cider fermented for a longer time.
• Sparkling cider: Carbon dioxide is added to the normal cider. The resulting chemical process creates a sparkling and pleasant beverage, which can be more or less sweet.
• Bubbly cider: There are two ways to increase the alcohol content of cider and make it sparkling. The first involves double fermentation, usually after the cider has been bottled. The second consists of adding other alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, or sparkling wine.
  

English Cider: The Ranking of the Best Producers

There are several English cider producers. The most well-known are in the United Kingdom, but the rest of Europe can also hold its own.

• Aspall: The oldest cider house still in existence in England. It exports cider worldwide and over the centuries has refined its production, discovering interesting insights and recipes.
• Thatcher’s Gold Cider: made by the historic family business Thatcher’s, this cider is a classic. It is made using a blend of sweet and tart apples, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It is a lightly fizzy cider, with a smooth and fresh taste, ideal for any occasion.
• Sheppy’s Oak Matured Vintage Cider: Sheppy’s is one of the oldest cider companies in England. Their Oak Matured Vintage is a rich and robust cider, aged in oak casks to add depth and complexity. It has a rounded taste, with notes of caramel, wood and a light spice.

The Best English Ciders Online

Here is a ranking of the best English ciders and where to buy them online.

Aspall Cyder: Aspall Cyder Draught 50cl

Bulmers Originals: Bulmers Originals

https://it.everli.com/it/p/prodotti/978108-original

Cornish Orchards Gold Cider: Cornish Orchards Gold Sparkling Cider

https://www.cantinadellabirra.it/shop/cornish-orchards-cider-gold-sparkling.html

If you prefer to buy cider at the nearest supermarket, we must consider that in Italy the supply is not so complete; the large distribution does not always offer a choice of cider and even less so of English cider. However, this article can help you discover which supermarket chain in your city sells apple cider.

If your trusted supermarket does not satisfy you in terms of cider selection, you can always buy it online. This article contains all the complete information on where to buy cider online from Italy.