Bob Cork’s Cider Career Bob Cork

• Bob Cork has 40 years of experience in cider making, starting in 1980.
• Initially an apprentice engineer, he transitioned to cider making, thanks to his engineering background.
• He now works as a cider-making consultant, still contributing to the legacy of Showering Cider Mill.

The Evolution of Showering Cider Mill and Babycham Entrance to Showering Mill

• Showering Cider Mill, made an undeniable mark for a perry called Babycham.
• The mill has evolved over the years, modernizing its equipment while maintaining traditional cider-making techniques.
• During the production of Babycham, horizontal tanks for producing this widely popular drink. At the time they were laid outside and eventually a buidlign was built around the tanks.
• The Shepton Mallet Cider Mill is the second largest mill in the UK and over the years it expanded to include a variety of ciders, while continuing to produce Babycham, the popular Fever brand and today a traditional cider called Showering Triple Vintage.

The Traditional and Modern Blend: The Triple Vintage Matthew, Daniel, Jonathan Showering and Ria Windcaller

The Triple Vintage cider, created by the Showerings blends three vintages to produce a high-quality product.

Bob Cork in this episode discusses how it is made using bittersweet and bittersharp apples, fermented with a wee bit of natural yeast and then a cultured yeast. The cider is matured to achieve a balanced, high-quality cider. Key to the cider-making process, is low-temperature fermentation and controlled maturation.

Bob Cork’s Advice for Aspiring Cider Makers

• Bob advises aspiring cider makers to approach the craft with passion, as it requires significant investment and a long-term commitment.
  • He emphasizes the importance of a solid business plan and understanding the market’s cyclical nature.
  • Despite the challenges, he believes in the future of cider, with increasing consumer interest in high-quality, craft ciders.

Mention in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• Totally Cider Tour to the UK – send an email to [email protected] to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025
• Wassail episode: episode 393: How to Wassail and Drink Hail

Wilding Cider, founded by Sam and Beccy Leach in 2019, uses Regenerative farming practices and a “rural method” to cider making. Based in Somerset the culinary skills of Sam blend with Beccy’s Sommelier palate. Their dedication to traditional orchards and natural fermentations has led to the creation of their standout orchard based ciders and perrys. This process sets Wilding apart, showcasing a commitment to purity, sustainability, and the land.

Beccy and Same Leach The Orchard at Wilding

• Size & Scope: 7.5 acres at the home orchard and additional rented orchards.
• Varieties: Kingston Black, Stoke Red, Porter’s Perfection, and so many more.
• Regenerative Practices

Sam in the home orchard

The orchards provide the perfect environment for Wilding’s cider-making, ensuring low-intervention fermentations that align with the Rural Method philosophy.

What is the Rural Method of Cider Making

Sam credits Skyborry cider in Wales for coining the phrase “rural Method”. He explains in this chat that at Wilding Cider Rural Method is an energy-efficient, traditional approach to crafting naturally sweet ciders. It utilizes:

• Cold Winter Fermentations: Utilizing natural temperatures to slow fermentation.
• Low Nitrogen Content: Achieved by using unfertilized orchards for balanced fermentations.
• Minimal Intervention: Avoiding filtration, sulfites, or pasteurization.

This method produces clean, complex ciders that capture the essence of Somerset orchards.

Signature Wilding Ciders and Perry

Wilding Cider showcases the Rural Method through their unique blends and single varietals:

• Symphony: A bittersweet blend.
• Comics: Multi-orchard cider built on Browns and Yarlington.
• Single Varietals: Stoke Red and Kingston Black.
• Perry Cider: Carefully macerated to achieve depth and balance.

These ciders are celebrated for their balance of tannins, acidity, and natural sweetness, hallmarks of the Rural Method.

Contact and how to find Wilding Cider

• Website: http://wildingcider.com
• Open Days: Second Saturday of the month, April through September.
• UK: Independent shops and restaurants.
• International: Belgium, Japan, and limited availability in the U.S.

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• Totally Cider Tour to the UK – send an email to [email protected] to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025

Jane Peyton, author of The Philosophy of Cider and founder of the School of Booze, brings her deep knowledge of cider and its cultural history to the forefront in this enlightening conversation.

Jane Peyton at Hereford AppleFest Banquet 2024

Key Points Covered

Cider’s Cultural Significance

• The apple as a symbol in global traditions and languages.
•  
• Historical mentions, from Norse mythology to Captain Cook's voyages.

Defining Cider

• Cider is pressed, not brewed, differentiating it from beer.
•  
• Diverse expressions of cider, from tannic and dry to sweet and fizzy.

The Legacy of Susanna Forbes

• A heartfelt tribute to Susanna Forbes' impact on the cider world.

Jane’s Philosophy on Cider

• Advocating for better representation of cider on menus.
•  
• Mainstream vs. artisanal cider perspectives.

The School of Booze

• Jane’s initiative to educate on cider, beer, and more.
•  
• Her work as a writer and accredited pommelier.

Highlights from the Philosopher of Cider

• Recommended Reads and Tastings:
  • The Philosophy of Cider and Jane’s other publications.
  •  
  • Examples of cider diversity, including champagne-method ciders.
•  
• Memorable Quotes:
  • “Slow cider is sunlight in a glass, the liquid expression of the orchard's soul.”
  •  
  • “Cider is not apple beer—it’s pressed, not brewed.”
•  
• Ciders and Perries Mentioned:
  • Little Pomona’s offerings
  •  
  • Ross on Wye ciders

Contact for Jane Peyton

• Website School of Booze
•  
• B.A. Summers novels Sole Brethren: Left To Their Own Devices & Sole Brethren: If The Shoe Fits

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Hereford Applefest 2024 film - https://www.herefordshirelifethroughalens.org.uk/cider-perry/
•  
• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
•  
• Totally Cider Tour to the UK - send an email to [email protected] to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025

The magic of Ciderville awaits you.

In this special holiday episode, Cider Chat invites you to step into the enchanting world of the Talking Pommes. The Night Before the Holiday Pressing is more than just a story—it’s a celebration of all things pome, community, tradition, and the joy that comes with every glass of cider.

The cider house hums with anticipation as Ria, Perry Pear, Mr. Quince, and the Medlars prepare the night before their annual pressing. But as every year before there is always magic in the air for Ciderville. With the Talking Pommes truly anything can happen and so it does!

With snow blanketed orchards, and just the right amount of “Believe” a sleigh pulled by apples glides through the starry sky.

Raise a glass and join us on this festive adventure—because in Ciderville, the magic is always just a sip away.

Meet the Stars of the Cider House

This holiday episode of Cider Chat brings together some of Ciderville’s most delightful characters:

• Apple: The vibrant leader with a twinkle in their eye.
• The Medlars: Sweet, quirky, and always ready with a witty remark.
• Mr. Quince: The wise and slightly stern elder who keeps everyone on track.
• Perry Pear: Full of charm and flair, a natural performer.
• A Wide Assortment of Pommes: From Dabinett to Kingston Black, they bring their unique personalities to the mix.

The Gift of Holiday Cider Magic

This story is for anyone who cherishes the magic of the season. As Apple says, “Every glass of cider holds a story, and this one’s for you.”

From Cider Chat to all of Ciderville, we hope this episode brings joy to your holiday season. Raise a glass, gather ‘round, and join the Talking Pommes and Ria in Ciderville!

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• Totally Cider Tour to the UK - send an email to [email protected] to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025

 

The Recipe for #xpromotecider

Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the recipe for growth. In this episode of Cider Chat, we explore how the #xpromotecider campaign over the course of 2024.

What is #xpromotecider?

The #xpromotecider campaign started as a way to encourage cider brands and enthusiasts to cross share episodes of Cider Chat so that Cider Chat could in turn share news about their brand. The end goal was to help educate cider fans about the resources and how-tos of cider making

Brands and fans were invited to repost Cider Chat episodes and/or download the informative Cider Chat.pdf and then tack it to a bulletin board in a tasting room.

Why Cross-Promotion is the Secret Ingredient

Cross-promotion isn’t just about visibility—it’s about creating a shared identity for the cider industry. Here’s why it matters:

1. Building Regional Destinations Regions like the Finger Lakes, Michigan, and Normandy have become cider tourism hotspots because of collaborative efforts among cideries. By promoting each other, these regions attract visitors and grow collectively.
2. Reaching New Audiences Sharing others’ stories helps introduce cider to new audiences who might not otherwise explore it. Cross-promotion creates opportunities to educate and inspire potential fans.
3. Strengthening Community Bonds When cider makers work together, it fosters a sense of unity that resonates with consumers. People want to support an industry that feels connected and supportive.

The Risks of Staying Isolated or not cross promoting

Isolation may seem like the safer route for some, but it comes with risks:

• Missed Opportunities: Without collaboration, regions miss out on tourism and media exposure.
• Industry Stagnation: Staying focused only on individual brands limits the industry’s potential to grow and attract new customers.
• Disconnection: Consumers are less likely to engage with a fragmented industry that doesn’t show unity.

By embracing cross-promotion, cider makers can avoid these pitfalls and contribute to a stronger, more vibrant community.

Spotlight on Cider Champions

Throughout the year, many individuals and brands have stepped up to embrace #xpromotecider. Here are just a few examples:

• @ciderexplorer consistently reshared weekly episodes, helping to spread the word.
• Cider makers downloaded and posted the Cider Chat PDF to engage their audiences and connect with their local communities.

To see the full list of contributors, check out the YouTube version of this episode, where we showcase screenshots of posts from the past year. And stay tuned to our social media for more highlights!

How to Join the Cross Promote Campaign

Ready to get involved? Here are a few ways to join #xpromotecider:

• Share this blog post or the podcast episode with your audience.
• Use the hashtag #xpromotecider in your posts and tag your favorite cider brands.
• Download the Cider Chat PDF and display it in your tasting room to encourage guests to learn more about cider.

Together, we can grow the cider community into 2025 and continue to build a stronger, more connected industry. Join the fun and start cross-promoting cider today

After 8 Years at the helm Michelle McGrath is switching gears Michell McGrath

Michelle McGrath, CEO of the American Cider Association (ACA), reflects on her impactful leadership, the growth of the cider industry, and her next chapter. In this episode, Michelle shares insights into her journey, upcoming transitions, and the exciting plans for CiderCon 2024 in Chicago.

Key Milestones at ACA

• Membership Growth: ACA membership has significantly increased during Michelle’s tenure.
• CiderCon Success: The premier U.S. cider conference continues to thrive, with growing attendance and international collaborations.
• Sustainability Focus: Initiatives that support cider makers, orchardist/farmers and sustainability were central to ACA’s strategy.

What’s Next for Michelle

Michelle will be transitioning to Salmon Safe as Columbia Basin Program Director. This nonprofit focuses on land use practices that protect watershed health and salmon populations. Her passion for collaboration and supporting farmers continues to guide her work.

Up Coming Highlights for CiderCon 2025

• Chilean cider tastings and sessions on the country’s apple heritage.
• A session on soil health by Ashley Lindsay, a pomological expert from Oregon State University.
• Tastings featuring Porter’s Perfection cider and quince cider varieties.
• Networking opportunities and workshops for cider makers worldwide.

A Call to Action for the Cider Community

Michelle encourages more diversity and representation in cider leadership roles, especially for women. She invites anyone interested in joining the ACA board or participating in industry initiatives to step forward and work with the board of directors.

Contact Info for the American Cider Association

• Website: https://ciderassociation.org

Mentioned in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• #xpromoteCider – Tips of the glass to the following brands! Do follow them on instagram!
  • @lydiaapplecore
  • Raven’s Moon Craft Cider & Blue Moon Farm British Columbia
  • Rødding – Æblets By i Salling -Denmark cider club
  • @1000StoneFarm Vermont restaurant and cidery
• #ciderGoingUP campaign page
• Cider Gift Ideas

Finding the perfect gift for the cider lover in your life just got easier. Whether you’re shopping for seasoned cider enthusiasts, budding cider makers, or thoughtful gift givers looking to impress, this guide has everything you need to celebrate the holidays with cider. From curated picks with our Cider Chat partners to tools and tips for home fermenters, we’ve got you covered.

Top Cider Gifts from the Cider Chat Partners

The following brands are part of the #ciderGoingUP Campaign. Become a partners today at the Cider Chat Patreon page!

1. Ross Cider and Perry | Herefordshire

Shop Ross Cider and Perry Explore a variety of ciders and perries from one of the most esteemed cideries in the UK. Perfect for those who love rich tradition and bold flavors.

2. DuckChicken Cider | London

Shop DuckChicken Cider Find distinctive ciders crafted in small batches, ideal for the adventurous cider drinker.

3. SpaceTime Mead and Cider Works | Pennsylvania

Shop SpaceTime Mead and Cider Works Browse their innovative blends that bridge the worlds of cider and mead.

4. EsoTerra Ciderworks | Colorado

Shop EsoTerra Ciderworks Gift fine ciders that showcase the terroir of the American Southwest.

5. Tattiebogle CiderWorks | Pennsylvania

Shop Tattiebogle Closed till December 20th Give the gift of anticipation with a Tattiebogle gift certificate—perfect for cider fans eager to try their unique offerings.

6. Bent Ladder | Ohio

Shop Bent Ladder Purchase ciders or gift certificates online to share a taste of Ohio’s finest.

7. Press Then Press

Shop Press Then Press Discover curated cider gift packs from a variety of top producers.

8. Oliver’s Cider and Perry | Herefordshire

Shop Oliver’s Cider and Perry Dive into premium ciders and the newly touted perry selection for a true taste of Herefordshire.

9. InCiderJapan

Shop InCiderJapan Explore unique Japanese ciders, offering a fresh perspective on the craft.

10. American Cider Association

Shop American Cider Association CiderCon swag showcases pride in this powerhouse organization

11. Locust Grove Brewery…and Cider! | New York

Shop Locust Grove Gift Card Certificates and Growlers to-go!

12. Heeman’s Cellar | London, Ontaria

Shop Heeman’s Cellar From gardening and orchard workshops to cider and mead online, this Ontario based family owned enterprise has a bevy of cider gifts!

Gifts for the Aspiring Cider Maker

For those who dream of crafting their own cider, these thoughtful gifts will kick-start their journey.

Cider Maker’s Starter Kit

• Download the Cider Making Equipment PDF to build a custom gift pack with essential tools.
• Pair the equipment with a box of fresh cider apples for an unforgettable gift.

Books for Every Skill Level

• Head to the Cider Books page at Cider Chat for resources ranging from beginner guides to expert cider-making tips.
• Consider books on orchard care, apple varieties, or rare fruits like medlars and sorbs domestica to deepen their knowledge.

Cider Chat Swag for the Holidays

Support your favorite cider podcast “Cider Chat” and surprise your cider-loving friends with some exclusive swag.

• Where to Shop:Cider Chat Swag Store on Teepublic
• Tips: Order a size up for a perfect fit, and if the t-shirt isn’t quite right, simply reorder for free!

Why Cider is the Perfect Gift

Cider is more than just a drink—it’s a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and community. By gifting cider or cider-related items, you’re sharing a piece of this heritage with friends and loved ones.

This holiday season, shop thoughtfully and enjoy the process of picking gifts that celebrate the world of cider. And don’t forget to check out the Cider Chat podcast for more cider tips, stories, and inspiration.

Support Cider Chat: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

For the cider lover who already has it all, consider a meaningful and impactful gift by supporting the work of Cider Chat.

Make a Donation

Help keep the cider community thriving by making a one-time donation to Cider Chat. Your contribution supports the podcast, cider stories, and educational content that bring the world of cider to life.

Become a Cider Chat Patron

• Visit the Cider Chat Patreon Page and sign up as a patron.
• Choose a tier that matches your budget and enjoy exclusive perks like behind-the-scenes updates, early access to episodes, and more.

This gift not only shows your appreciation for cider culture but also ensures that Cider Chat continues to inspire and connect cider enthusiasts around the globe.

Pro Tip: Pair this donation or patronage with a physical gift, like a Cider Chat t-shirt or mug from the Cider Chat Swag Store, for a thoughtful and well-rounded present.

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• #xpromoteCider – Tips of the glass to the following brands! Do follow them on instagram!
  • @spacetimemeads – Dunmore, Pennsylvania
  • @anchgergely of Abilaget Garden Projects
  • @thompsons_brood home cider maker
  • @tomoliverscider – Herefordshire, UK
  • Rødding – Æblets By i Salling -Denmark cider club
  • @degerdenner Netherlands
• Rootwood Cider Company– Washington
• #ciderGoingUP campaign page
• Cider Gift Ideas

Episode Summary: A 5-Star Cider Experience

Step into an unforgettable 5-star cider dining experience with Eric Bordelet, one of the world’s most acclaimed cider and perry makers. Recorded during an intimate cider dinner as part of the French Cider Tour 2024, this episode offers an extraordinary glimpse into Eric’s legacy and his passion for crafting exceptional ciders. From his renowned gastronomic cuvées to his philosophy on terroir and tradition, listeners will enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Eric’s work legendary.

In this Cider Chat Episode

• Eric’s philosophy of terroir and its impact on crafting ciders and perrys.
•  
• The art of creating cuvées, including sweet, demi-sec, and brut varieties.
•  
• The revival of rare traditions like cormé cider (sorbus domestica).
•  
• The importance of biodynamic orchard care and sustainable practices.
•  
• Insights on aging cider and perry for complexity and balance.

Behind the Scenes of an Intimate Dinner

Recorded during a private dinner in Normandy, this episode captures the essence of 5-star cider dining. As Eric poured his celebrated ciders and perrys, he shared stories of his sommelier roots, the influence of terroir, and his vision for cider-making’s future. It’s a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s top cider makers in a truly personal setting.

More Eric Bordelet Episodes on Cider Chat

Eric and Ria

• Episode 057: Eric Bordelet | Normandy, France Part 1
• Episode 058 Eric Bordelet | Ancient Pears Chay Tour Part 2
• 172: Tasting and Tour with Eric Bordelet
• 321: Cider Styles with Eric Bordelet
• 340: Eric Bordelet on Pairing Cider with Food

Contact Info for Eric Bordelet

• Website: https://ericbordelet.com/index-en.html#home

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code –  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• #xpromoteCider – Tips of the glass to the following brands! Do follow them on instagram!
  • @prairiebearsciderco – Alberta Canada
  • @anchgergely of Abilaget Garden Projects
  • @santacruzciderco – California
• #ciderGoingUP campaign page
• Cider Gift Ideas

Exploring Cider’s Role in Fine Dining

In this episode of Cider Chat, we sit down with Chef Ivan Vautier a Michelin-starred chef from Normandy, France, to discuss his approach to pairing cider with food and incorporating it into his dishes. Normandy, as a region is renowned for its cider, Calvados and Pommeau. As such it offers a unique perspective on how this traditional beverage is used in high-end cuisine.

Ivan Vautier

But does cider get the attention it deserves in fine dining? The answer might surprise you. While this Michelin Chef Vautier highlights some classic applications, like poaching foie gras in cider, the conversation reveals a deeper challenge: even in cider’s heartland, it appears that cider's potential remains under appreciated in haute cuisine.

Key Takeaways from a Michelin-Starred Chef

• Traditional Uses of Cider: Chef Vautier shared his method for preparing foie gras terrine poached in cider, complemented by a semi-dry cider pairing. While a delightful tradition, it underscores the entrenched view of cider as a regional staple rather than an innovative culinary element.
• Critique of Heavy Cuisine: He addressed the overuse of cream in Normandy dishes, advocating for lighter preparations that let cider’s acidity and flavor shine—a refreshing perspective for modern palates.
• Missed Opportunities: The chef noted that cider could rival champagne as an aperitif.
  • To create this new vision for cider, Chefs both in France and world wide must be called upon to rev up a sense of enthusiasm and vision to champion this transformation.

Cod and Dupont Cidre pairing

A Call to Action for the Cider Community

This episode highlights the need for cider enthusiasts and producers to work together to elevate cider's status in fine dining. Here are some ideas discussed:

• Cider Education for Chefs: Host tastings and workshops to showcase cider's complexity and versatility, inspiring chefs to integrate it more deeply into their menus.
• Collaborative Menus: Develop cider-focused tasting menus and co-create signature ciders tailored for specific cuisines.
• Inspiring Innovation: Highlight cider's potential as a lighter, fresher alternative to traditional ingredients like cream or wine in sauces and reductions.
• Elevating Cider’s Image: Serve cider in elegant glassware and market it as a sophisticated aperitif to attract fine dining audiences.
• Engaging the Culinary World: Partner with culinary schools, host cider-focused food festivals, and celebrate chefs who innovate with cider through awards and recognition.

Dessert at Ivan Vautier

Why This Matters

Cider is more than just a beverage—it’s a bridge between tradition and innovation. This episode sheds light on the barriers holding cider back in fine dining and offers actionable steps to move forward. By working together, producers and enthusiasts can inspire chefs to see cider not just as a drink, but as a transformative ingredient worthy of the world’s finest tables.

Cider Dinner at Ivan Vautier

Contact info for Ivan Vautier

• Website: https://www.ivanvautier.com/en/
• Address: 3 Av. Henry Chéron, 14000 Caen, France

Subscribe and Share

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss more conversations like this! Subscribe to Cider Chat on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode with friends who love cider and fine dining.

Support Cider Chat: Your support helps keep these conversations flowing! Visit CiderChat.com to learn how you can help.

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code -  Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you'll reach a section in the form that says "additional registration information" and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• #xpromoteCider - Tips of the glass to the following brands! Do follow them on instagram!
  • @prairiebearsciderco - Alberta Canada
  • @anchgergely of Abilaget Garden Projects
  • @santacruzciderco - California
• #ciderGoingUP campaign page

Why Pair Cider with Thanksgiving Dinner?

Cider is a fantastic beverage for Thanksgiving, with a range of flavors to suit savory, sweet, and spicy dishes. It’s an ideal alternative to wine or beer, bringing a refreshing acidity and fruit-forward profile that lifts and enhances Thanksgiving flavors. From crisp dry ciders to dessert-ready ice ciders, there’s a pairing for everyone at your table.

Start Thanksgiving with a Cider Aperitif

Opening your Thanksgiving celebration with a light cider aperitif or cocktail helps set a festive mood. Here are a few ideas to get started:

• Lisa Laird CranJack Cocktail
  • 1 1/2 oz. Laird’s Straight Applejack
  •  
  • 4 oz. Club soda
  •  
  • Cranberry juice
  •  
  • Slice of lime
•  
• Classic Sparkling Cider: A crisp, dry sparkling cider in a champagne flute makes a refreshing, light aperitif.
•  
• Apple-Ginger Cider Mocktail: Mix sparkling cider with ginger juice and garnish with apple slices for a warming, spiced start to the meal.

Main Course: Turkey and Vegetarian Pairings

Whether your main course is turkey or a vegetarian option, cider brings out the best in savory herbs and seasonings. Here are a few pairing suggestions

For Turkey Lovers

• Herb-Roasted Turkey with Rosemary and Sage
  • Pair with: Dry, crisp cider from the Finger Lakes or Vermont.
  •  
  • Why It Works: The dry cider’s acidity complements the turkey’s rich, savory herbs, offering a light and refreshing contrast to the meat’s natural flavors.
•  
• Recommended Ciders
  • Alma Cider - Dry (Washington) (500 mL) 6.2%
  •  
  • Cockrell Cider - 1783 (Washington) (750 mL) 6.9%
  •  
  • Farnum Hill Extra Dry Cider (New Hampshire) 750 mL 7.5%

 

• Smoked Turkey
  • Pair with: Barrel-aged cider from California or New York.
  •  
  • Why It Works: Aged ciders with a smoky, woody profile enhance the bold, smoky flavor of the turkey, creating a complex and satisfying pairing.
•  
• Recommended Ciders
  • Bent Ladder Black Gold (Ohio) (750 mL) 8.7% 
  •  
  • Esso Terra Ciderworks Halcyon (Colorado) (750 mL) 7.6%
  •  
  • Presque Isle Farm 2021 Single Barrel: Esopus Spitzenburg (Michigan) (750 mL) 10%

For Vegetarian Main Dishes

• Mushroom Wellington or Stuffed Acorn Squash
  • Pair with: Semi-dry cider from Oregon or Washington.
  •  
  • Why It Works: The earthy, umami notes in mushrooms or squash pair beautifully with a semi-dry cider, amplifying the savory herbs in these dishes.
•  
• Recommended Ciders:
  • Gypsy Circus Cider/ Queen of Swords (Tennessee) (16 Ounce cans) 6% unfiltered medium bodied cider
  •  
  • Gypsy Circus 2024 Raindancer (16 Ounce cans) 6% 100% locally sourced 
  •  
  • Semi dry ciders can be found in every liquor store that sells cider in the US - buy local and enjoy!

Side Dish Pairings for Classic Thanksgiving Sides

Thanksgiving sides are often seasoned with spices like sage, thyme, and cinnamon. Here’s how cider can enhance these traditional flavors:

• Savory Stuffing with Sage and Thyme
  • Pair with: Semi-dry cider with herbal notes.
  •  
  • Why It Works: A semi-dry cider’s acidity cuts through the richness of stuffing, while herbal undertones bring out the dish’s earthy flavors.
•  
• Recommended Ciders:
  • Snowdrift Cider - Red Cider 2023 (500 mL) (Colorado) 7.5% A beautiful deep rosé color courtesy of the redfleshed apples 

 

• Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
  • Pair with: Crisp, dry cider.
  •  
  • Why It Works: A dry cider’s refreshing acidity balances the creamy, dense texture of mashed potatoes and gravy.
•  
• Recommended Ciders:
•  
• Botanist and Barrel 2022 Less is More Wild Ferment Pétillant Naturel (375ml) & (750 mL) Fermented from wild yeast on the apple skins using the Pétillant Naturel technique, subtle minerality, honey notes and racy acidity

 

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
  • Pair with: High-acidity, dry cider.
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  • Why It Works: The cider’s crispness contrasts with the slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts and enhances the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
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• Recommended Ciders:
  • Greenbench Webb City's Cellar Northern Spy (Florida) - 6.2% Northern Spy apples fermented dry create this crisp, tart cider.

 

• Sweet Potato Casserole with Cinnamon and Nutmeg
  • Pair with: Sweet, spiced cider.
  •  
  • Why It Works: Sweeter ciders with notes of cinnamon or nutmeg pick up on the spices in sweet potatoes, adding a warm, cozy feel to the meal.
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• Recommended Ciders:
  • Botanist and Barrel: Scarlet (North Carolina) (750 mL) & (375 mL) 6.9% - Spiced Winter Rose Cider, made with orange peel, cinnamon, star anise, allspice, cloves, dried ginger, nutmeg.

Thanksgiving Dessert: Sweet Cider Pairings

Finish off your Thanksgiving feast with dessert ciders that enhance the sweet, spiced flavors of classic holiday pies and treats.

• Pumpkin Pie
  • Pair with: Ice cider from Vermont or New York.
  •  
  • Why It Works: Ice cider’s concentrated apple sweetness and acidity balance the spiced pumpkin filling, creating a luxurious, indulgent pairing.
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• Recommended Ciders:
  • Eden Specialty Ciders Heirloom Blend (Vermont) (375 mL) 10% 15 heirloom apple varieties
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  • Cider Hill Cellars (Massachusetts) – Winter 12.5%  an award winning Ice Cider

 

• Apple Crisp
  • Pair with: Semi-sweet cider with cinnamon notes.
  •  
  • Why It Works: A semi-sweet cider’s apple-forward profile enhances the baked apple filling, while subtle spices complement the oat topping.
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• Recommended Ciders:
  • Western Cider (Montana) McIntosh Single Variety Cider (500 mL) 6.7% Montana's Macintosh apples are renown and lend cinnamon notes and spices to to each bottle.
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  • James Creek Cider House (North Carolina) Winter Solstice Cider (500 mL) 6.0% aged for up to nine months in American oak barrels that were once used for bourbon and brandy and then lightly infused with baking spices

 

• Pecan Tart
  • Pair with: Barrel-aged cider.
  •  
  • Why It Works: The caramelized, nutty flavor of barrel-aged cider mirrors the rich, sweet flavors of a pecan tart, creating a seamless finish to the meal.
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• Recommended Cider:
  • Liberty Cider (Washington) 2023 Widdershins Apple (375 ml) 18% A US version of a French Pommeau - barrel-aged at least two years, soft and harmonizing notes of cinnamon, black cherry and vanilla.

 

• Chocolate Pudding Pie or anything Chocalate?
  • Recommended Cider:
    • Mega dry cider with rich tannins - The Ross Cider and Perry Company (UK) Bisquet single varietal bittersweet and is crazy good with chocolate!

Best Ciders to Buy for Thanksgiving

Looking to stock up on ciders for Thanksgiving? Here are a few recommendations to suit each pairing:

• Finger Lakes, NY: Known for high-acid, mineral-rich ciders that pair well with turkey and savory sides.
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• New England: From Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island - you can't go wrong! Seek out the semi-sweet and dry ciders for root vegetables and Thanksgiving desserts.
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• Oregon & Washington: Earthy, balanced ciders that match vegetarian dishes like stuffed squash or mushroom Wellington.
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• Hudson Valley, NY: Tannic ciders that bring complexity to lentil dishes and roasted vegetables.
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• California & Virginia: Excellent options for barrel-aged ciders to pair with smoked turkey or pecan pie.

Cider Pairs Perfectly all Year Long!

Cider’s unique blend of acidity, tannins, and natural sweetness makes it the perfect drink to elevate your Thanksgiving feast and really any meal all year long. From bright aperitifs to rich dessert pairings, cider has a flavor for every dish. So this year, why not explore the flavors of Thanksgiving with cider in hand?

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Listen to Lairds & Company Part 1 and 2 on Cider Chat
• EsoTerra CiderWorks, Indiegogo Campaign
• Totally Cider Tours
• Wild Branch Cider - Vermont - Ashmead Kernel Cider
• WildCraft Cider Works - Oregon - Medlar Cider