Perry's Cider
'It's still the same as it has been for the last 90 years - to produce the very best Somerset Ciders with 100% apple juice, and with as little intervention from ourselves and nasty ingredients as possible.
We also strive to push the boundaries of craft cider - producing free thinking ciders with depth of flavour using only the simplest and purest of means..........'
Perry's Cider
'It's still the same as it has been for the last 90 years - to produce the very best Somerset Ciders with 100% apple juice, and with as little intervention from ourselves and nasty ingredients as possible.
We also strive to push the boundaries of craft cider - producing free thinking ciders with depth of flavour using only the simplest and purest of means..........'
Perry's Cider
'It's still the same as it has been for the last 90 years - to produce the very best Somerset Ciders with 100% apple juice, and with as little intervention from ourselves and nasty ingredients as possible.
We also strive to push the boundaries of craft cider - producing free thinking ciders with depth of flavour using only the simplest and purest of means..........'
ORCHARDS
Cider orchards, also known as apple orchards or cider apple orchards, are agricultural landscapes specifically cultivated for the production of cider apples. These orchards are carefully managed to grow apple varieties that are well-suited for making cider. Here are some key points about cider orchards:
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Apple Variety Selection: Cider orchards are planted with apple varieties that have desirable characteristics for cider production. These varieties can be classified into different categories such as bittersweet, bittersharp, sweet, and sharp, each contributing specific flavors, sugars, acids, and tannins to the cider.
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Orchard Design and Layout: Cider orchards are typically organized in rows or blocks, with trees spaced in a way that allows for proper air circulation, sunlight exposure, and ease of maintenance. The layout considers factors such as tree density, soil conditions, drainage, and potential windbreaks.
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Tree Pruning and Maintenance: Regular pruning is essential in cider orchards to promote healthy tree growth, improve fruit quality, and facilitate easier harvesting. Pruning helps control tree size, shape, and encourages optimal fruit production. Orchardists also monitor and manage pests, diseases, and nutrient requirements through appropriate agricultural practices.
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Harvesting: Cider apples are harvested at specific stages of ripeness to achieve the desired balance of flavors, sugars, and acids. Harvesting methods vary and can involve hand-picking or mechanical shaking of the trees to dislodge the apples. Care is taken to handle the apples gently to avoid bruising or damaging the fruit.
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Processing: Once harvested, the cider apples are taken to cider mills or processing facilities, where they undergo various steps such as washing, sorting, milling, and pressing to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented to produce cider.
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Orcharding Traditions and Terroir: Cider orchards often have a rich history and cultural significance in cider-making regions. Traditional orcharding practices, passed down through generations, contribute to the unique characteristics and terroir of the cider produced in those areas.
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Biodiversity and Wildlife: Cider orchards can support diverse ecosystems and provide habitats for various plant and animal species. Orchards with a mix of apple tree varieties, wildflowers, and hedgerows can enhance biodiversity and promote beneficial insect populations, which can help with pollination and pest control.
Cider orchards are integral to the production of high-quality cider. They require careful planning, maintenance, and knowledge of apple varieties to ensure the orchard produces apples with the desired attributes for cider production. The combination of orchard management techniques, apple variety selection, and the unique characteristics of the orchard's location contribute to the flavors and qualities of the cider produced.