World Cider Day: Celebrating the World’s Oldest and Most Beloved Beverage

World Cider Day, or World Cider Day, is an annual celebration that pays tribute to one of the world’s oldest and most cherished beverages: cider. Held annually on June 3, this special day unites enthusiasts, producers, and the merely curious in a global tribute to cider culture, its history, and its countless varieties.

Origins and History of Cider

Cider has ancient origins dating back thousands of years. It is believed that the first traces of cider were found in Mesopotamia and that the Babylonians were already producing fermented apple beverages. However, the drink as we know it today found particular popularity in Europe, especially in regions such as England, France, and Spain.

England and Cider

In England, cider is a deeply rooted tradition. During the Middle Ages, cider production was common in monasteries and country houses. Apple trees were carefully cultivated, and the drink was considered a staple, often included as part of agricultural workers’ wages. English cider is known for its variety, ranging from sweet to dry, with numerous regional subcategories.

France and Cidre

In France, cider is called “cidre” and is particularly associated with the Normandy and Brittany regions. French cider tends to be sweeter and fruitier than its English counterparts and is often consumed with local dishes like crepes and camembert. France has also developed a wide variety of sparkling ciders, produced using methods similar to those of champagne.

Spain and Sidra

In Spain, cider is particularly popular in the northern regions, such as Asturias and the Basque Country. Spanish cider is known for its dry and slightly tart taste and is traditionally poured from great heights into special glasses to aerate and enhance its flavor. Spanish cider houses, known as “sidrerías,” are important social venues where people gather to enjoy freshly tapped cider and typical dishes.

Cider Production

Cider production begins with the harvesting of apples, which can be of different varieties depending on the type of cider to be produced. After harvesting, the apples are washed, ground, and pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented, a process during which natural or added yeasts transform the sugars into alcohol.

Apple Varieties for Cider

There are numerous varieties of cider apples, which can be classified into four main categories: sweet, bittersweet, acidic, and bitter-acidic. The combination of these different types of apples is essential to creating the right balance of flavors in the cider.

Fermentation and Aging

The fermentation process can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of cider and local traditions. Some ciders are also aged in wooden barrels to add complexity to their flavor. During aging, cider can develop notes of vanilla, caramel, and spices, contributing to a richer and more nuanced flavor profile.

Types of Cider

The world of cider is incredibly varied, with a wide range of styles and flavors that reflect different production traditions worldwide. Some of the main types of cider include:

Sweet Cider

Characterized by a high residual sugar content, giving the drink a sweet and fruity flavor. This type of cider is often preferred by consumers who enjoy a lighter and less alcoholic beverage.

Dry Cider

Has a very low sugar content, resulting in a drier and more complex flavor. This type of cider is often more alcoholic and has a more mature taste, with notes that can range from woody to earthy.

Sparkling Cider

An effervescent variety produced using techniques similar to those of sparkling wine. This type of cider is often used to celebrate special occasions and can range from sweet to dry.

Natural Cider

Produced using traditional methods without adding sugars or additives. This type of cider is very popular in Spain, where it is served in a special way to enhance its taste and aroma.

World Cider Day: Celebration and Significance

World Cider Day was established to promote and celebrate cider culture worldwide. This day offers the opportunity to discover and appreciate the richness and diversity of this beverage by participating in events, tastings, and visits to local producers.

Events and Tastings

During World Cider Day, numerous events are organized worldwide. These can include guided tastings, where industry experts lead participants through a selection of ciders, explaining their characteristics and history. Additionally, many cities host cider festivals where visitors can sample a wide range of products and meet local producers.

Visits to Producers

Another popular activity during World Cider Day is visiting local producers. Many producers open the doors of their farms and cider houses, offering tours that showcase the cider production process from apple harvesting to fermentation and bottling. . These visits are an excellent opportunity to see firsthand how cider is made and to meet the producers who keep the traditions alive.

Promoting Cider Culture

World Cider Day is also an opportunity to promote cider culture and raise public awareness about its traditions and benefits. Many restaurants and bars participate in the celebration by offering special cider-based menus and organizing themed events. Additionally, social media platforms become a sharing space where enthusiasts can exchange information, recipes, and advice.

World Cider Day is a global celebration honoring the rich history, culture and variety of cider. Whether you are an expert connoisseur or just curious, this day offers an opportunity to discover new flavors, meet passionate producers and participate in events celebrating one of the world’s most beloved and ancient beverages. No matter where you are, June 3 is the perfect time to raise a glass of cider and toast to its long and fascinating history.

Where to Taste Cider in Italy

In Italy, cider culture is growing rapidly, and there are numerous places where you can participate in tastings and discover the variety and quality of Italian cider. Here is a list of some places in Italy where you can taste cider:

1. Sidreria L’Orso e il Miele (Trentino-Alto Adige): Located in the heart of the Dolomites, this cider house offers a wide range of craft ciders made with local apples. Tastings also include pairings with cheeses and cold cuts from the region.
2. La Sidreria della Val di Non (Trentino-Alto Adige): This is one of the most famous apple-producing regions in Italy. The cider house offers guided tours and tastings of their ciders, along with tours of the orchards.
3. Podere il Montaleo (Tuscany): This farm in the Tuscan countryside produces organic cider using old local apple varieties. The tastings are accompanied by typical Tuscan products.
4. Alpine Cider (Lombardy): Located in the Lombardy Alps, this cider producer offers tastings of their unique varieties made from high mountain apples. Visits include a tour of apple production and trees.
5. Baladin Ciderhouse (Piedmont): This famous craft brewery has also begun producing cider. Tastings at their Piedmont location include a wide range of ciders, from sweeter to drier varieties.
6. Montepulciano Cider (Tuscany): In the heart of Tuscany, near the famous wine region, this winery produces cider using local apples and traditional methods. Tastings are offered in their picturesque farmhouse.
7. Pantaleone Farm (Marche): This farm produces a high-quality cider using apples grown in the Marche region. Tastings are combined with tours of the farm and surrounding orchards.

Attending a cider tasting in one of these places will allow you to discover the richness and variety of Italian cider, surrounded by the beautiful landscape settings of the different regions of the country.