Epic ciders - England

We’ve had 5 Welsh ciders.  Now it’s time for the traditional cider heartlands of England to show us what they’ve got.  Here are 5 great examples.

Still Medium – Orchard Pig, West Bradley

Based near Glastonbury in Somerset, Orchard Pig began making cider in 2004. The still medium cider is a very soft and clean cider, with a delightful fresh apple aroma and taste.

Kingston Black – Gwatkin, Abbey Dore

The Kingston Black variety of apple is reputed to be the most famous apple in the cider making world.  This is a very dry, traditional cider, weighing in at a thumping 7.5%

Dry/medium/sweet – Wilcox, Cheddar

What’s great about Wilcox cider is that you can mix the different flavours to make a cider that is perfect for your own palate.  The owners are friendly and knowledgeable, and they produce very high quality cider.  If you’re ever driving through Cheddar gorge, you can’t miss the shop as there is a huge plastic mouse standing guard outside.

Cheddar Valley – Thatcher’s, Sandford

A Somerset Cider maker that has become incredibly successful.  Plenty of choice here, including premium selections like Old Rascal and single variety Coxs.  My choice is Cheddar Valley as it is incredibly traditional, orange in colour, dry and bittersweet.  A classic traditional cider.



Cheddar Valley
Photo - Paul Evans



Medium - Worley’s, Shepton Mallet

A traditional cider maker using locally sourced apples.  The medium is the pick of the bunch, which manages the balance perfectly.  Worley’s pride themselves on their ‘lovingly crafted’ ciders which are arrived at after a system of cool natural yeast fermentation.

Time to find a beer garden, and let the good times roll!