Autumn in the United Kingdom brings not only the vibrant colours of falling leaves but also the promise of delicious apple cider. Here at Hydes Cyder, we are in full harvesting swing. We are working with the local community to pick apples and windfalls and showcasing our production process. Mulching, pressing, fermenting and tasting are enjoyed every weekend.
Timing is Everything
Apple harvesting for cider production is an art that relies heavily on timing. The window for picking the apples is relatively short, usually from late September to early November, depending on the variety of apples and the regional climate. This period coincides with the apples’ peak ripeness, ensuring that they are loaded with natural sugars and optimal for cider production. The 2023 summer climate of late heat and a rather cool summer have played havoc on the ripening timing. Flexibility and patience is a must.
Varieties and Orchards
The UK boasts a rich diversity of apple varieties, each contributing distinct flavors and qualities to the cider-making process. Some popular cider apple varieties include Dabinett, Kingston Black, and Yarlington Mill, known for their complex flavors and tannin content. In addition to these cider-specific apples, many traditional dessert apples also find their way into cider recipes, adding sweetness and balance.
To gather the apples for cider, orchards across the UK come alive during the harvesting season. According to data from the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM), there are over 480 commercial cider makers in the UK, managing thousands of acres of orchards.
Some Surprising Facts and Figures
Production Volume: The UK cider industry is a major player on the global stage. According to figures from the NACM, the UK produced 2.3 billion pints (approximately 1.3 million liters) of cider in 2020.
Apple Orchards: The UK boasts around 360,000 acres of orchards, with a considerable portion dedicated to cider apple cultivation. Over 18,000 acres are planted with traditional cider apple trees, according to the Royal Horticultural Society.
Economic Impact: The cider industry in the UK contributes significantly to the national economy. The sector supports over 18,000 jobs and generates £1.1 billion annually, as reported by the NACM.
The Cider-Making Timeline
Apple Harvesting: The first step in cider production is, of course, the harvesting of apples. We are in full harvesting swing here at Hydes.This includes washing, mulching and then…..
Pressing: Pressing is a fun part of the process. Our method here at Hydes has progressed from a small hand press to a larger commercial electric press to cope with ever increasing quantities.
Fermentation: The juice is then transferred to fermentation vessels, traditionally wooden barrels or stainless steel tanks. At Hydes we rely on natural yeast to convert the sugars in the juice into alcohol, a process that can take several weeks.
Maturation: After fermentation, the cider is left to mature. The length of maturation varies depending on the desired end product. Some ciders are ready to drink within a few months, while others may benefit from aging for several years.
Blending and Packaging: Here at Hydes we blend various batches of cider to achieve our desired taste. This is the fun part. Many tasting sessions take place.The final product is then filtered, clarified, and packaged in bottles, kegs, or cans.
Enjoying: The last, but certainly the most enjoyable step, is the consumption of this delicious, traditional beverage. We are delighted to have produced our first batch of premium medium dry cider. We are looking forward to developing and blending other batches in the future.
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