Thursday 22 March 2012

Epic ciders - Wales

Real cider consumption is on the rise. And it’s no surprise given some of the great ciders that are being made in Wales, across the border in England and across Europe. In part 1 of the Epic Cider Trilogy we’ll look at 5 great Welsh Ciders.

Black Bart – Rosie’s, Llandegla
A sweet cider with a big punch. Matured in Barbadian Rum casks for an extra special taste sensation. This cider is named after the pirate Bartholomew Roberts, who was infamous in the Caribbean for his plundering.

Black Dragon – Gwynt y Ddraig, Llantwit Fadre
A strong cider that’s matured in oak barrels, which adds a rich colour and flavour to this very tasty cider. It is still, smooth and precariously easily to drink.

Photo - Paul Evans

Vintage – Hallet’s, Hafodyrynys
A very rare cider that is left to bottle condition for a full year after initial fermentation. A delicate cider that will appeal to the more discerning cider drinker.

Boris’s Brainbender – Raglan Cider Mill, Llanarth
A well renowned cider (possibly owing to London Mayor Boris Johnson’s face adorning the storage box) from this Monmouthshire orchard that specialises in cider from Welsh variety apples. A very tasty cider, which balances sweetness, crispness and strength perfectly.

Medium Dry – Ty Gwyn Cider, Newcastle
This cider maker is based near Crossway in Monmouthshire. It is slightly sparkling and made from Vilberie and Brown Snout apples. It is crisp, slightly sweet, very easy to drink and very refreshing.

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