Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Understanding The World Of Fine Natural Cider

In recent years, there has been a growing trend among beverage enthusiasts to explore unique and lesser-known options. While wine and craft beer have garnered significant attention, there is another drink that is slowly making its way into the spotlight – fine natural cider. Cider, often overshadowed by its alcoholic counterparts, has a rich history and diverse range of flavors that deserve admiration.

The Essence of the Orchard: What Is Fine Natural Cider?

Before we delve into the world of fine natural cider, it is crucial to understand its origins. Cider is a fermented beverage made from pressed apples, although pear-based variations also exist. While commercially-produced ciders may contain additives and sweeteners, fine natural cider emphasizes the use of traditional production methods and minimal intervention.

Unlike mass-produced ciders that often sacrifice quality for quantity, fine natural cider makers focus on the art of cider-making. They prioritize sourcing the best locally grown apples, carefully selecting varieties known for their distinct taste profiles. These apples are then pressed to extract the juice, which is later fermented using natural yeasts. This hands-on approach ensures that each bottle of fine natural cider is a testament to the craftsmanship behind it.

Fine Cider: Understanding the world of fine, natural cider

by Felix Nash(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	40420 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	296 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A Journey of Discovery: Exploring Unique Flavors

The world of fine natural cider is a veritable smorgasbord of flavors, each bottle offering a unique sensory experience. From crisp and dry to fruity and sweet, there is a cider to suit every palate. While some ciders mimic the taste of apples, others showcase the intricate flavors derived from specific apple varieties. Just like wine, the terroir and climate in which the apples are grown play a significant role in shaping the final product.

One cider may transport you to an apple orchard on a sunny autumn day, while another may evoke the essence of a tropical paradise. Fine natural cider can be still or sparkling, and its alcohol content ranges from light and refreshing to bold and complex. Ciders can also be aged in oak barrels, infusing additional layers of flavor reminiscent of fine wines or spirits. It is this remarkable diversity that sets cider apart, offering endless opportunities for enthusiasts to embark on a journey of discovery.

Revisiting Tradition: Cider and Culture

For centuries, cider has been deeply rooted in various cultures around the world. From the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Normans and Celts, cider has left an indelible mark on history. In regions such as England, Spain, and France, cider has become an integral part of local traditions and celebrations.

One excellent example is the Spanish region of Asturias, where cider production and consumption have flourished for generations. The pouring of cider, known as escanciar, is an art form in itself. The Asturian cider ritual involves pouring cider from a great height into a glass held at waist level, which aerates the cider and enhances its flavors. This tradition showcases the significance of cider as a cultural expression, fostering a sense of pride and community.

Pairing Perfection: Cider as a Culinary Companion

Just like wine, cider can elevate the dining experience and bring out the best in our favorite dishes. Its versatility allows for exciting and unexpected pairings. From seafood to cheese, from desserts to grilled meats, cider complements a wide array of flavors.

For seafood lovers, a crisp and citrusy cider can enhance the briny character of oysters or perfectly balance the richness of a grilled salmon. Mature, aged ciders can add complexity and depth of flavor when paired with robust cheeses or charcuterie boards. Additionally, the natural acidity of cider makes it an excellent companion for desserts, cutting through sweetness and providing a refreshing contrast.

Finding Hidden Treasures: Exploring the World of Fine Natural Cider

Now that you have gained a glimpse into the wonders of fine natural cider, it is time to embark on your own cider adventure. Seek out local cider makers, visit cider festivals, and explore different cider regions. Just like wine and craft beer enthusiasts, the community surrounding fine natural cider is passionate and ever-growing.

So, why not uncork a bottle of fine natural cider and savor its flavors? With each sip, you will be transported to the enchanting orchards from which it originates, appreciating the craftsmanship and tradition that make every sip of cider so special.

Fine Cider: Understanding the world of fine, natural cider

by Felix Nash(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	40420 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	296 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Explore the fine cider movement and the people and producers behind it.

“Felix is one of those heroes of local produce and producers, in his case of what I call true ciders. These ciders (and perrys) bear no relation in terms of provenance, endeavour, cost, landscape or heritage to the commercial ciders that compete for the mass market. The world is logistics and marketing, well for those big companies maybe, for Felix it’s enthusiasm, effort and the lovely work of the local, “I can see the orchard from here”, producers. So here’s a book that opens the door to the past and, most importantly, the future.” – Trevor Gulliver, Co-founder of St John, London

Think you know about cider? Well think again. It’s not about the swill you guzzled as a student, or the so-called “flavoured ciders” that don’t actually contain any apples. The contemporary cider scene is an exciting place to spend some time, as passionate makers celebrate tradition and terroir while also embracing seasonality, innovation, and experimentation to produce characterful drinks that are quite remarkable. Fine Cider looks at this modern cider movement, charting its beginnings and introducing some of the key players in fine-cider making, as well as guiding you through the characteristics of different apple varieties, the cider-producing regions around the world, the processes and techniques of cider production, how cider is an exceptional partner with food and, of course, recommending ciders you need to try.