In October 2024, Cider Chat MC Ria Windcaller recorded with Tom Vowles of Hedger Cider and Ben Crossman in Somerset. Initially, the two recordings felt like separate brand stories. Then, nearly a year later to the day as the produciton of this audio began and the transcript peeled away a story of entwined history came to light and a shared connection: Coates Cider of Nailsea. Tom Vowles" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Tom-Vowles-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Tom-Vowles-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Tom Vowles Suddenly a light bulb was illuminated! The Coates Cider Company was at the helm of the story and here at Cider Chat Central we saw the weaving in of the story behind both Nick Showering and Bob Cork episode on Triple Vintage! The story of cider is entwined in surprising ways and make perfect sense! Remembering Tom Vowles Tom walked Ria about his production room which showcased a massive rack and cloth press – that originally came from Coates: “It’s a big old press, isn’t it? Came out of Coates originally. We’ve put a lot into getting it running again, and it does the job.” – Tom Vowles At the time of this recording Hedgers Cider had been opened for just 14 months and during that time had become a go-to place for cider fans. The fact that it is located 5 minutes from the Bristol Airport and along a major artery from Weston super-Mare to Bristol also helps. What we didn’t expect was Tom unexpectedly passing away in June of 2025. At the time of this broadcast in fall of 2025, his wife Jo and their son David is now carrying Hedgers forward. Ben Crossman’s Cider and Family History Ben’s story reaches back to the 1930s, when his grandfather made cider alongside Redvers Coate. They even at one time considered a partnership. Ben Crossman" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Ben-Crossman-with-jug-of-cider-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Ben-Crossman-with-jug-of-cider-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Ben Crossman Tradition: Wild ferments, bittersweet varieties Continuity: Keeping cider alive through tough decades Parallel: A family path entwined with Coates’ rise “It’s funny, isn’t it? The Coates family were massive, and yet they’re not here anymore. But we’re still making cider.” – Ben Crossman Sidebar: Coates & Triple Vintage Founded 1925 by Redvers Coate in Nailsea Wartime boost: rationing and zoning expanded markets 1951 premium launch: Triple Vintage and Festival Vat 1956 takeover: Showerings doubled production Modern link: Showerings’ Triple Vintage continues the name – launched in 2023 Reflection: Cider’s Market Identity Cider was the choice drink for many and Perry once rivaled champagne and held prestige in Parliament. Today, the challenge is reclaiming value without losing openness. Like vinyl records and artisan bread, cider’s comeback requires: Consistency of quality — season after season Audience engagement — beyond cider circles, into wine, food, and tourism Authenticity without snobbery — refined yet welcoming Contact info for Hedgers and Crossman's Hedger Cider: https://www.hedgercider.co.uk Crossman’s Cider: https://www.crossmanscider.co.uk Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours Absolem Cider Apple Pie Bake Off – October 4, 2025 – judging starts at 4pm Kanga Cider
UK Cider Tour 2025 Audio Snap Shots Wallace and Ria in Bristol" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ria-and-Wallace-in-Bristol.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ria-and-Wallace-in-Bristol.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Wallace and Ria in Bristol In this Episode 469 of Cider Chat, we brings listeners inside the UK Totally Cider Tour 2025 through the voices of the guests who joined. From Somerset, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, to Wales guests on this tour discovered not just cider and perry, but also community, history, and inspiration. First Impressions and Highlights Many guests shared that they signed up to experience places they couldn’t access on their own. From the scale of Showering’s Cider Mill, the second largest in the country to the intimate welcome at Oliver’s, the contrast certainly left a deep impression. The discovery of Perry was a recurring theme. From Ohio travelers Chris and Megan who tasted their very first Perry on the tour, while Rodney from Virginia declared he’d be grafting Perry scions at home. Personal Connections Group Selfie with Sam Leach of Wilding Cider" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/469-Group-selfie-Wilding-Cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/469-Group-selfie-Wilding-Cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Group Selfie with Sam Leach of Wilding Cider For repeat travelers like Debbie and Bryce from California, the tour reaffirmed how relationships with makers enrich the experience: “ They treat us like friends, not tourists.” Ancha from Hungary spoke of the joy of hiking the Malvern Hills in the rain and celebrating with fellow cider lovers. Rachel and Mary of Kanga Cider in Texas noted the value of orchard insights for their own plantings back home, while Thomas from Australia praised the tour for covering the full spectrum of producers—from industrial to artisanal. Learning and Inspiration Guests emphasized that tasting ciders in their native terroir cannot be replaced by books or certifications. Dan from Spacetime Mead and Cider Works in Dunmore Pennsylvania highlighted how only by being in Herefordshire or Somerset can one grasp the range of English cider styles. Susan and Tom of Heeman’s Cellars in Ontario pointed out how the pacing of the tour allowed real reflection—something missing from busier farm tours. The Takeaway Whether first-timers or repeat guests, everyone agreed: the Totally Cider Tour offers access, education, and camaraderie that can’t be replicated alone. As David of Oregon said it best, “It wasn’t really about the cider—it was about the people.” Contact info for Totally Cider Tours Website page: https://ciderchat.com/totally-cider-tours/ For details on upcoming cider journeys and to join the waitlist, send an email to info@ciderchat.com and write in the heading Totally Cider Tours. Let us know how many are in your party Destinations you would like to visit Mentions in this Cider Chat Episode 469 425: Babycham to Triple Vintage – The Showering’s Cider Legacy 450th Roger Wilkins – The Cider King 444: Worleys and Honey’s: Somerset’s Cider Makers 441: Wilding Cider and the Rural Method | Somerset, UK 454: Wild Ferment Meets Fine Cider: Inside Oliver’s Barrel Room 460: James Forbes on Little Pomona’s Ciders & Legacy 432: Ancha Gergely’s Abaliget Garden Projects | Hungarian Cider Maker
Cider Maker and Founder Lee Van DeWater of Pierrepont Cider shares his story in this episode on how he is forages apples to share a taste of terroir from New York’s North Country. Lee Van DeWater Foraging Apples for Cider - Sustainable? Lee’s cider journey started with childhood memories of sweet cider and apple trees planted by his great-grandfather. But it wasn’t until he worked in Montana—buying wine for a co-op that he connected cider and apples through fermentation. Western Cider of Montana help Lee get that spark/idea of a cider life, and the seed was planted. Pierrepont cider is a one-man operation, sourcing apples exclusively within the Little River Watershed. Many of the trees Lee uses are wild seedlings, unknown varieties that thrive in New York’s tough climate. He honors the trees, the land, and water, seeing cider as a reciprocal act of love for place. Low-Intervention, High-Expression Lee is self-taught and intentionally minimalist. His ciders are: Wild-fermented Unfiltered Unsulfited Aged in stainless and neutral oak barrels Some of the most memorable ciders come from single trees. Others are blends of just a few wild apples growing together. He tracks everything via GPS and harvests with the patience and perspective of a forager. “The tree that holds its fruit until the first snow, that’s climate-controlled storage,” Lee laughs. Micro Batches, Big Intention What’s available? 2024 Pet-Nat: lemony, spritzy, bright Brighter Later: a single-tree cider still in label design Orbed Road: a terroir-based expression of elevation Maple Sap Ciderkin: rehydrated pomace with local maple sap, sparkling and experimental Each bottle comes with its own story. You might not find hundreds of cases, but you’ll find care, balance, and quiet brilliance. Contact Info for Pierrepont Cider Website: https://www.pierrepontcider.com Mentions in this Cider Chat Vermont & New York Cider Road Trip Series Part 1- 464: Czech Cider: From Roadside Apples to Cellar Ferments Part 2 -465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm Part 3 - 466: Growing Cold-Hardy Trees at Saint Lawrence Nursery | NY Part 4 - 467: Canton Apples and Frosty Twig: New York Cider Makers Unite Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition 2025 Sign up for the "early-to-know" wait list for upcoming 2026 Totally Cider Tours CiderCon 2026 - Providence, Rhode Island February 2-5.
How Canton Apples and Frosty Twig Fused Two Brands into One In New York’s “North of Upstate” region, in the town of Canton is the Canton Apples production building. It is now also home of a partnership shaping the local cider scene. Owner Joel Howie and cider maker Dan Gallagher live just a mile apart, and their skills mesh perfectly. Joel brings over a decade of experience growing apples, pressing sweet cider, and creating value-added products. Dan, a passionate fermenter, was ready to move beyond hobby scale when the two connected. Two Brands, One Vision Under Canton Apples & Cider, LLC, two product lines take shape: Canton Apples – approachable, consistent ciders for everyday enjoyment. Joel Howie" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Joel-Howie-in-the-Apple-storage-room-at-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Joel-Howie-in-the-Apple-storage-room-at-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Joel Howie Frosty Twig – small-batch, specialty ciders showcasing unique apples, fruits, and wild fermentation. Dan Gallagher" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Dan-Gallagher-on-the-Apple-bins-of-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Dan-Gallagher-on-the-Apple-bins-of-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Dan Gallagher Production takes place in a purpose-built facility designed for growth, with future plans for a taproom overlooking the orchard. Orchard Practices & Apple Diversity Between their combined orchards, Joel and Dan care for over 250 apple varieties — many planted by Bill McKentley of St. Lawrence Nurseries. These heritage and cold-hardy apples thrive in Zone 4, and every apple grown is put to use. When supplies run short, apples are sourced from other New York regions. Cider Making Approach Ciders range from wild-fermented pet-nats to cultured yeast ferments for consistency. Specialty ciders include Turkey Tree Wild Berry Pear cider Most ciders age 9–10 months before release, allowing flavors to develop naturally. Canton Apples cider and Frosty Twig Cider series" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/466-Canton-Apples-cider.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/466-Canton-Apples-cider.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Canton Apples cider and Frosty Twig Cider series Contact info for Canton Apples Website: https://cantonapples.com Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition 2025 Sign up for the “early-to-know” wait list for upcoming 2026 Totally Cider Tours Let us know how many in your party Vermont and New York Cider Road Trip series Part 1- 464: Czech Cider: From Roadside Apples to Cellar Ferments Part 2 –465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm Part 3 – 466: Growing Cold-Hardy Trees at Saint Lawrence Nursery | NY
A Century of Cold-Hardy Trees Saint Lawrence Nursery in Potsdam, NY, has been helping cold-climate growers find success since the 1920s. Originally founded by Fred Ashworth and later expanded by Bill MacKentley, the nursery is now stewarded by Connor and Allyssa Hardiman, the third generation in a nonfamilial succession. What Sets Saint Lawrence Nursery Apart Cold-Hardy Genetics Over 250 apple varieties Trialed at temperatures as low as -34°F Trees that thrive from Alaska to Michigan Only Standard Rootstock Seedling Antonovka (apples) and Baccata (crabs) for resilience and longevity Trees that can live 100+ years More Than Apples Black walnuts, butternuts, hazelnuts, and berry bushes Custom grafting for heirloom preservation Regionally adapted selections from partnerships and testing plots Passing the Torch of Generational Wisdom and Branding The nursery was handed down without a sale. It was gifted by Bill to Connor in a rare act of agricultural generosity. The plan is to do the same one day. “Love is what makes the world go ’round,” Bill often says, and it’s embedded in every tree tag and planting guide. Cold Hardy Trees For Orchardists and Backyard Growers Most customers are small-scale planters or long-time loyalists. Whether you want just one tree to honor a grandparent or 100 cider apples for a startup orchard, Connor and Allyssa are here to help—with personal attention, a rich planting guide, and an option to let them choose the right tree for you. Contact Info for Saint Lawrence Nursery Website: https://www.slngrow.com/ Mentions in this Cider Chat Listen to Bill MacKentley’s speach at New York Apple Camp 2023 391: Test Winters & Climate w/Saint Lawrence Nurseries (NY) Founder Totally Cider Tours Patrick McCauley Episode Feature – 302 Washtenaw County Cider Mille 1841- Today Topsoil Magazine
From Farm to Glass: Cider at 1000 Stone Farm At 1000 Stone Farm in Brookfield, Vermont, Kyle Doda and Betsy Simpson have built a dynamic model that unites organic farming, community-supported agriculture, small-batch cider. First came the farm and then over ten years, the couple expanded their offerings to include fruit trees, livestock, mushrooms, and now a seasonal restaurant and tasting room: The Farmers Hand Cider House & Kitchen. Besty is the Chef and a graduate of the Culinary Institue of Arts in New York. Besty Simpson and Kyle Doda" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/465-besty-and-kyle-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/465-besty-and-kyle-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Besty Simpson and Kyle Doda The Orchard & Philosophy Situated between 1,400–1,700 feet in elevation, the farm grows: Over 60 varieties of apples Plums, peaches, cherries, and Perry Pears Herbs interplanted with vegetables and orchard rows Livestock including lamb, pork, beef, and poultry And there is a dedicate grow space for a mushroom buisness Fruit is fermented on-site with minimal sulfites, both neutral and spirit oak barrels, and some filtered fresh juice for back-sweetening. The cidery prioritizes clean expressions of fruit and soil. Ciders Tasted During this Recording Volume One – Off-dry, barrel-aged, lightly back-sweetened Volume Two – Dry blend with Winesap, Kingston Black, Northern Spy Volume Three – Porter’s Perfection and Ashmead’s Kernel Tomcat – Gin barrel-aged cider, 10% ABV Graf – A farmhouse cider-beer hybrid aged in oak Gathering at The Farmers Hand Open seasonally, The Farmers Hand Cider House & Kitchen features hyperlocal meals built around the farm’s own produce and meats. The space invites locals and visitors to connect over cider, community, and shared tables. There is seating at the bar and also outside on a brand new patio for the 2025 season. Contact Info for 1000 Stone Farm and The Farmers Hand Cider House & Kitchen Website: https://www.1000stonefarm.com Farm Store: Open daily, 8am–8pm (self-serve) The Farmers Hand: Seasonal hours; check website or Instagram for updates June through December Fridays 1-8pm & Saturdays 1-8pm Location: Brookfield, Vermont What is 1000 Stone Farm? What is The Farmers Hand Cider House & Kitchen? Can I visit the farm or tasting room? What kinds of cider are made at the farm? Who makes the food and cider? Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours UK_Edition 2025 Wolfkin Cider, Seattle Cider 375: Cider’s Low Carbon Footprint | Wildbranch Cider, Vermont – Cedar Hannan
A conversation with Czech Cider Fan Dan Samek This episode brings us to the heart of Europe by way of Vermont. Ria sat down with Dan Samek, a cider enthusiast and home distiller from Prague, to talk about the evolving cider scene in the Czech Republic. They met at Kilowatt Park which is on the west side of the Connecticut River in White River Junction, Vermont. Dan Smaek" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/464-feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/464-feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Dan Samek This was the first stop on the Cider Tour to Vermont and New York in May 2025. In this Cider Chat featuring Czech Cider 1. A Fruitful History The Czech Republic is rich with apples, pears, plums, and cherries and exports a lot of fruit. For centuries, fruit trees lined roads to feed traveling soldiers. This is a legacy left from the Barak times, in the 18th century 2. Cider by Way of Calvados Dan journey to cider started while he was working at a French winery He has an affection for Calvados and thus made cider to distill. His process blends natural fermentation and dry yeast (He favors the yeast known as 72B). The apples come from old trees in his one-acre garden-orchard near Prague. 3. Small Scene, Big Potential Early cider makers in the Cech Republic began around 2007. Prague had a cider shop (InCider) and a cider bar, but today you can find cider at most bars. Cidrerie Kliment and Utopia are two standout producers—Utopia leans all natural. 4. Enthusiasts Leading the Way Many Czech homes still have fruit trees. Backyard fermenters use presses ranging from barrel-style to hydraulic. Gardening clubs and university programs help spread knowledge. 5. Beyond Apples Dan grows quince and medlars and has a Sorbus domestica tree in his orchard. Morovia which is to the north of Prague has a Sorubus Domestic museum. There’s a growing appreciation for traditional and lesser-known fruits in fermentation. Mentions in this Cider Chat Czech Cider Data Base https://databazecideru.online/dejv/ Natalia who write the Cider Explorers blog post on Czech Cider and Prague Cider Fest https://ciderexplorer.wordpress.com/2017/07/17/where-to-drinkbuy-cider-in-prague/ Prague Cider Festival – Slavnost Cideru to be held June 12–14, 2026 Art + Science Concerts and Campouts start July 5th | Oregon De Groote Wei Cider Fest – August 16, 2025 | Netherlands The Flower Expo Paper Crane Cannabis – Boey Bertold organic and regenerative family-owned farm Totally Cider Tour UK_Edition 20225 Related
Eric Depradine of Zydeco Meadery crafts mead with Heart, Honey, and Heritage As securing permission, Eric was able to start his fermentation journey in high school with a science project using cane juice. That spark stayed with him through his time in Louisiana and Kansas, eventually shaping what is now Zydeco Meadery in North Attleborough, Massachusetts. Eric Depradine" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/463-Zydeco-feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/463-Zydeco-feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Eric Depradine What makes these meads so special? Zydeco Meadery weaves Eric’s Caribbean heritage into every bottle. Drawing from Trinidadian traditions like “Sorrel”, a spiced hibiscus drink served during holidays, Eric reimagines this ancestral recipes by using honey instead of cane sugar. Each mead showcases distinctive honey varietals, from Louisiana wildflower to Massachusetts knotweed, adding layers of terroir that reflect the regions that shaped him. The result is a line of meads that are bold, balanced, and culturally rich—fermented expressions of family, migration, and memory. Meads and Cysers Featured in this Chat Carnival Rose Carbonated hibiscus mead rooted in Caribbean sorrel tradition 12% ABV, spiced, bold, festive Named in honor of Calypso Rose, the first female calypsonian Yankee Heritage Cyser Apple, raisin, and knotweed honey Inspired by colonial cider traditions and Bear Swamp Orchard & Cidery which is in Ashfield, Massachusetts but is no longer open. Bayou Soleil Traminette grape and citrus blend A nod to Louisiana groves and Eric’s wife’s love of German varietals Atlantic Creole 100% Massachusetts knotweed honey Molasses-like, earthy, and distinct Contact Info for Zydeco Meadery Website: https://zydecomeadery.com Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tour Uk_Edition 2025 Flower Expo Apple Guy Flowers Lucas of Apple Guy Flowers" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/463-Apple-Guy-Flowers-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/463-Apple-Guy-Flowers-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Lucas of Apple Guy Flowers
A Digital Media Empire Embraces Cider at The Newt The Newt in Somerset is a world-class estate blending cider-making, luxury hospitality, and horticultural excellence. The estate is owned by South African owners Karen Roos and her husband Koos Bekker, who is a South African tech entrepreneur known for his innovative ventures, including transforming media group Naspers. Bekker’s vision extends beyond digital media into luxury hospitality and agriculture, mirroring his approach at Babylonstoren in South Africa, The Newt’s sister property. Ciders tasted at The Newt in Somerset " data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Ciders-tasted-at-The-Newt-in-Somerset-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Ciders-tasted-at-The-Newt-in-Somerset-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Ciders tasted at The Newt in Somerset A Cathedral to Cider at this Luxe Estate The Newt’s cider operation began in 2018, a year before the estate’s gardens and hotel opened. Designed with a focus on creativity and the visitor experience, the cidery features state-of-the-art equipment, including Voran presses, hypoxic apple storage, and multiple fermentation tanks. The cider is predominantly crafted for guests visiting the estate, which receives up to 200,000 visitors a year. Charlie Inns: The Cider Maker’s Story Charlie Inns, the cider maker, brings a deep passion for microbiology and biochemistry to the operation. His journey began with home brewing in his youth, later gaining professional experience at Lilly’s Cider. At The Newt, Charlie focuses on crafting ciders using estate-grown apples from 65 varieties, many of them heirloom. The orchards, covering approximately 70 acres, are planted with traditional, full-size trees spaced widely to minimize disease spread and reduce the need for chemical treatments. Charlie Inns Cider maker at The Newt in Somerset " data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Charlie-Inns-Cider-maker-at-The-Newt-in-Somerset-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Charlie-Inns-Cider-maker-at-The-Newt-in-Somerset-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Charlie Inns Cider maker at The Newt in Somerset State of the Art Cider Production The cider-making process includes a variety of yeasts, including wine strains, and a mix of stainless steel and oak barrel fermentations. Techniques such as gravity-fed racking, malolactic fermentation, and freeze concentration for ice cider production are part of the cellar’s repertoire. Some ciders are back-sweetened with apple juice or ice cider concentrate, and a cider club offers members access to exclusive batches and virtual tastings. Watch a behind the scenes from The Newt Operations and Sales Support Luke Benson, who joined The Newt more recently, supports Charlie with operations and sales, ensuring the cidery runs efficiently and allows the cider maker to focus on quality and creativity. Luke’s background includes home cider-making and beer brewing. Ria, Luke Benson, Arthur Cole touring The Newt" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Ria-Luke-Benson-Arthur-Cole-of-The-Newt-in-Somerset-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-Ria-Luke-Benson-Arthur-Cole-of-The-Newt-in-Somerset-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Ria, Luke Benson, Arthur Cole touring The Newt Ciders Tasted at The Newt Fine Cider: A Braeburn single varietal fermented with Pinot Grigio yeast, crafted to appeal to wine enthusiasts. Kingston Black: A single-varietal expression using this traditional bittersweet apple, known for its crisp acidity. The cider featured champagne yeast and was back-sweetened with ice cider and fresh juice for a balanced finish. Red Love and Vilberie Blend: A complex cider combining the tart Red Love apple from Kent with the tannic Vilberie, resulting in a deeply colored, aromatic cider. The Winston: A méthode champenoise-style cider made from Katy apples, aged for several years, named after Winston Churchill and bottled in pint-sized bottles. The Winston" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-The-Newt-Feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/462-The-Newt-Feature-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> The Winston Hopped Braeburn: A single-varietal Braeburn cider infused with Nelson Sauvin hops from New Zealand, offering a delicate, aromatic profile with a hint of residual sweetness from the apple. Signature Blend: A flagship cider blending over 30 apple varieties from the estate, fermented in both stainless steel and oak, with a focus on capturing the essence of The Newt’s orchard. Contact Info for The Newt Website: www.thenewtinsomerset.com Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours_UK Edition 2025 Ethic Ciders | California Summer Solstice BBQ Saturday, June 21 · 12 – 5pm PDT. tickets @nordappelcider is sending an open letter to the German EU delegates, advocating for transparent labelling. This new comes in via 1785 Cider who was featured on Moscow’s Rebel Apple wins International Cider Maker of the Year at GLINTCAP Listen to Episode 216: Alex Ionov | Rebel Apple, Moscow Watch this video sung by Alexander Ionov. In this song the young man is addressing a girl with St Valentines letter explaining how much he dreams about her The main phrase of the song is «I need you more than a ton of cider» (or to be precise in translation «You are more important for me than a ton of cider»).
Levi Danielson is the founder and cider maker at RAW Cider, based in Dayton, Oregon. With roots in the Driftless Region of Minnesota and a cidery nestled among cider apples and pears in the Willamette Valley, Levi’s story is one of wild ferments, place-based cider, and planting for the future – both in Oregon and back home. Levi Danielson" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/461-Feature.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/461-Feature.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Levi Danielson Building RAW Cider Levi’s path began in microbiology and health policy before a leap to France introduced him to wild fermentation and orchard life. After interning and later leading production at Dragon’s Head Cider in Washington, Levi launched RAW Cider in 2020 with méthode champenoise ciders that quietly matured during the pandemic. Since then, RAW Cider has: Opened a year-round tasting room on an orchard in Dayton, Oregon Earned gold and silver medals for its first releases Focused on native yeast fermentation, minimal intervention, and orchard-first practices Planted and top-grafted cider and perry fruit in both Oregon and Minnesota Pear Ambitions and a Regional Vision Levi’s passion for perry is central to RAW Cider. With 60-year-old pear trees, now top worked with perry pear varieties and wild seedlings grafted in the Mississippi River Valley, plus collaborations in Hood River, he’s betting on American perry’s future. He believes Hood River could become the “Domfrontais of the U.S.”—a new home for pear-driven sparkling ciders that mirrors the pear region in Normandy, France. Listen to episode 313: Wild Yeast Fermentations | CiderCon 2022 featuring a panel discussion with Levi Danielson Contact info for RAW Website: https://www.rawcider.com Mentions in this Cider Chat European Union 100% juice movement – Sign the petition today! https://www.petitions.net/protect-european-artisanal-cider-and-perry Totally Cider Tours Inn on Lake Champlain Keep #ciderGoingUP by becoming a patron at the Cider Chat Patreon!
An intimate sit down with James Forbes of Little Pomona to talk about grief of losing his wife and business partner Susanna Forbes, the growth of the cidery, and the evolving identity of one this select cidery. Remembering Susanna Forbes Susanna Forbes, co-founder of Little Pomona, passed away in 2024. Her warmth, encouragement, and belief in others shaped the cidery from day one. As James puts it, “She was always trying to build up and support others – including me.” James, Ria and Susanna 2019" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/460-James-Ria-and-Susanna-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/460-James-Ria-and-Susanna-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> James, Ria and Susanna 2019 What’s New at Little Pomona Champagne Method Quince Wine – Possibly the second of its kind globally, due this summer. Champagne Method Egremont Russet – One of his favorite apples, now sparkling. Keeved Ciders – A new path, with mixed results but promising bottles. Distilled Projects – Collaborations with Capreolus and Pleasant Land to craft pommeau aged in chestnut barrels. Annual Disco Nouveau – Returning with the 2022 and 2023 vintages. Natural Yeast Ferments – Used throughout, except the second ferment in méthode champenoise. Where to Find Little Pomona Hereford Beer House | Hereford Museum of Cider | Hereford Specialist shops in London, Manchester, and Glasgow Press Then Press – Select U.S. locations via Anxo (Washington D.C.) Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours – UK Edition Vermont and New York Cider Tour/Road Trip 1000 Stone Farm Saint Lawerence Nursery Frosty Twig and Canton Apples Pierrpont Cider Inn at Lake Champlain Support #ciderGoingUP at Patreon
Fourth-Generation Farmer, First-Generation Cidermaker Sophie Horstink of De Groote Wei, which means The Great Meadow in Dutch, is crafting Dutch cider as a value added project at her family’s farm. Located in the eastern Netherlands near Arnhem, the farm spans 16 hectares and has long produced dessert apples and pears. Sophie Horstink" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Sophie-with-cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Sophie-with-cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Sophie Horstink The Horstink family market is well-known and is a go-to place for locals to shop and would be considered a grocery store. She released her first cider in 2022. The early response was enthusiastic, selling out quickly and prompting her to scale production. She now ferments around 5,000 liters annually in what is called the ‘cider cave” on the family farm. De Groote Wei’s Ciders cider garden" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Cider-garden-at-de-Groote-Wei-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Cider-garden-at-de-Groote-Wei-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> cider garden Appel Vink (Apple Finch) ABV: 6.5% Notes: Lightly sparkling with fresh acidity and a hint of sourness. Made entirely from eating apples including Elstar, Jonagold, and Belle de Boskoop. Groente Vink (Green Finch) ABV: 6.5% Notes: A blend of apples as used in the Appel Finch and 30% Conference pears. Also bottle-conditioned, this cider has a rounder mouthfeel and delicate fruit aromatics. Contact info for De Groote Wei Website: https://www.degrootewei.nl Family Farm shop" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Inside-the-farm-shop-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/459-Inside-the-farm-shop-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Family Farm shop Mentions in this Cider Chat VT & NY Cider Road Trip Totally Cider Tours SpaceTime Mead and Cider Works set to close June 22, 2025 – listen to the Space Time episode 288 with Dan Schreffler Support this podcast by becoming a patron!
Donatas Genys didn’t set out to launch Lithuania’s first keeved cider. But after trips to England and Normandy, years of experimentation, and the planting of over 6,000 cider apple trees, that’s exactly what he’s doing. At Sodo Sidriné, located just a few kilometers from the city of Kaunus, Donatas is into a whole new era for cider Lithuania’s cider revival Donatas Genys Cider Culture and Baltic Roots Lithuania has deep agricultural roots, but apple trees which at many of the homes are desired more for eating or making apple wine while vodka and beer under Soviet rule flourished. Note: Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990, becoming the first Soviet republic to do so, an act made possible in part by the loosening of Soviet control under Gorbachev’s Perestroika reforms. Donatas is using both local varieties like Auksis and imported cider apples such as Yarlington Mill, Harry Masters Jersey, and Marie Ménard. His orchard-first philosophy ensures every cider is estate grown and rooted in place. Keeving in Lithuania The hallmark of Sodo Sidrine’s offerings is a naturally keeved cider. Donatas showcased his keeved cider at CiderCon 2025 and received a lot of praise from attendees, including this Cider Chat Producer Ria Windcaller. Genys admits it’s the most labor-intensive process, but also the most rewarding. This method yields a semi-dry cider with natural sweetness and long-lasting complexity, a rarity in a country where most consumers only know industrial cider. A New Era for Lithuanian Cider With a production facility nearly complete, Genys is preparing to scale up. His vision includes: Sodo Cider Stainless steel fermentation A small tasting room with potential for expansion Fruit wines and hopped ciders to appeal to a wider audience Apple brandy aged in sherry casks for future release Inside Sodo Sidrine Despite legal gray areas (there’s no craft cider license in Lithuania), Donatas is pushing forward — blending tradition, research, and experimentation with quiet determination. He expects his licensing process to be completed by the summer of 2025. Stay tuned! Contact info for Sodo Sidriné Website: https://sodosidrine.lt/ Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition Bent Ladder | Doylestown Ohio – Events Locust Grove Brewing – Mother’s Day Brunch – Live Music, Food Truck 11-2pm
At the base of Colorado’s Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, five generations of fruit growers have worked the land. Today, Snow Capped Cider carries on that legacy, crafting estate-grown ciders from fruit nurtured at elevations between 6,130 and 7,000 feet. The high desert sun, volcanic soil, and pure snowmelt water combine to create vibrant apples and distinctive ciders. From Hobby to Heritage What began as a small experiment soon blossomed into a full-fledged cidery. Sparked by a disappointing store-bought cider, Kari Williams and her family leaned into their winemaking background and deep orchard knowledge to create cider reflective of their exceptional terroir. Kari Williams Cider Making at High Elevation At Snow Capped Cider: Only estate-grown fruit is used. Over 100 acres are dedicated to cider-specific apple varieties. The extreme UV exposure at high elevation leads to apples with higher sugars, acids, and tannins, setting the stage for rich, complex ciders. Managing a shorter growing season, spring frost risks, and labor-intensive frost protection methods has shaped their unique approach to farming and fermenting. A Range of Styles Snow Capped produces: 16 canned ciders distributed across four states. 54 distinct bottled ciders, from single varietals like Kingston Black and Harrison to blends featured in the Elevation Series. Botanical infusions and experimental ferments, all handled with precision and passion. Their Gold Rush cider, a blend of French and English apples, showcases the vibrant flavors that their terroir imparts — a naturally complex, award-winning cider approachable for all levels of cider drinkers. Where to Find Snow Capped Cider Ciders are available via: Retail in Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and California Online at VinoShipper Their exclusive cider club offering small-batch, estate ciders. Contact Info for Snow Capped Cider Website: https://snowcappedcider.com Mentions in this Cider Chat Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours Keep #ciderGoingUP by supporting this podcast via Cider Chat Patreon Season:Season 10 Categories: Cider Maker profile, Colorado Ciders Tags: Cedar Ridge ciders, Colorado Ciders, Grand Mesa, high elevation orchards, UV exposure and fruit quality
This episode of Cider Chat, was recorded in person with Abram Goldman-Armstrong at CiderCon2025 in Chicago. Hear his journey to cider. From growing up in Oregon’s Yamhill County to his current work in Norway’s Hardanger region at Alde Sider. Abram began fermenting cider as a student in Minnesota and went on to found the cidery known as Cider Riot in Portland, Oregon. His experience reflects both the evolution of the cider industry and the challenges of building a business grounded in values and community. The Cider Riot Years Cider Riot grew from a home cider making project into a well-regarded cider brand and pub. Abram describes building the business, navigating challenges like rising rent and market shifts, and the significance of Cider Riot as a political and cultural hub. The pub hosted community meetings, union organizers, and events that reflected Portland’s activist spirit. Standing Against Far-Right Violence On May 1, 2019, Cider Riot became the site of a violent confrontation when members of the far-right group Patriot Prayer, led by Joey Gibson, clashed with patrons during a May Day celebration. The altercation resulted in injuries, including a woman being knocked unconscious. Abram filed a $1 million lawsuit against Gibson and others involved, alleging that they had instigated the attack. The incident drew national attention and highlighted the challenges faced by businesses taking a stand against hate groups. Relocating to Norway After Cider Riot closed in late 2019, Abram accepted an offer to collaborate with cider makers in Norway. He began working with a small brewery before moving west to Hardanger, where he now produces cider at Alde Sider. The region has a long history of apple growing and is the first in Norway to receive a protected designation for cider. In this Cider Chat Early influences in Oregon: Working with Alan Foster of White Oak Cider, planting bittersweet varieties like Kingston Black. DIY beginnings: Making cider in college using apples from the dining hall and a cheese grater. Founding Cider Riot: From garage startup to a full-scale cidery and pub in Portland, Oregon. Pub culture & Portland community: Supporting labor organizing, queer and trans spaces, and anti-fascist events. Financial challenges: Draft-focused sales model, missed retail opportunities, and the impact of hard seltzers. Closure of Cider Riot: Reflections on its cultural significance and decision to shut down in 2019. Move to Norway: Invited to launch a cider program with a brewery in Sandefjord, leading to Tall Ship Cider. Transition to Alde Sider: Current role as lead cider maker in Hardanger, Norway’s key cider region. Hardanger cider traditions: Protected cider designation and historic use of apples like Gravenstein and Discovery. Production methods at Alde: Use of Nottingham ale yeast Chaptalization with Danish beet sugar High-acid juice (~pH 3.1–3.2) Residual sweetness target of 1.003 SG Crossflow filtration to halt fermentation Barrel aging program: Experiments with French agricole rum and Norwegian whiskey barrels. Community cider scene: Five producers in the village of Nå, collaboration across the fjord, and cider tourism via fjord boat. Cultural observations: Comparing pub cultures, lifestyle differences between Norway and Portland. Low-ABV cider innovation: Creating a 4.7% cider for draft sales in collaboration with 7 Fjell Brewery. Use of wild yeast: Petnat-style experiment using orchard yeast and natural inoculation. Future plans: Continuing to explore cider styles in Norway, working with bittersweets, and developing new blends. Contact Info Abram Website: https://www.aldesider.no Mentions in this Cider Chat 317: How a “Cyder” Teapot fueled the American Revolution Stone Ridge Orchard Wassail May 3rd & 4th – tickets https://www.clover.com/online-ordering/Event-Tickets Episode: 450th Roger Wilkins – The Cider King
John Edwards, longtime cider maker and integral team member at Ross on Wye Cider & Perry Co., and the creative force behind his personal label Fly be Night Cider was last on the podcast in 2019. John Edwards In this Cider Chat with John Edwards ohn is part of the tight-knit crew at Ross Cider who keep things running from orchard to bottle. The team has embraced a belt press system, which John finds surprisingly nimble—even for small batches. While Ross is rooted in tradition, they’re also evolving their process to match the scale and diversity of their orchard. Transitioning to stainless steel fermentation tanks Working with old and rediscovered apple varieties Committed to wild yeast and natural fermentation Managing fire blight Diversifying the orchard’s apple stock with varieties like Kingston Black, Golden Ball, and Cider Lady’s Finger. Fly Be Night: A Creative Outlet Fly by Night remains John’s personal cider expression—just a few barrels a year, shared with friends. Each release gets a new label (last year’s was “Space Goat”), and while the iconic “0% Sh*t” label is retired, the spirit of fun and integrity lives on. A Cellar Surprise for Ross Fest 2025? John has one cider still in the cellar: a 2014 Foxwhelp that might just see bottles soon. Whether blending at Ross or bottling at home, John’s work reminds us that cider thrives on community, curiosity, and a bit of mystery. Mentions in this Cider Chat Episode 195: Fly Be Night Cider | 0% Sh**, UK Totally Cider Tour UK Edition
Rainy Days Goes Best with Dry Cider in the Barrel Room Walking into the barrel room at Oliver’s Cider and Perry Company, you might think you know what to expect. But surrounded by whitewashed stone walls, standing beneath the old Hessian sacking floor, and facing rows of aging barrels, I quickly realized this wasn’t just a cidery—it’s a living, breathing creative space for cider making. Tom Oliver sources fruit both from his farm and from local orchards across Herefordshire. This isn’t an estate cidery where everything is grown on-site—but what sets Oliver’s cider and perry apart is Tom himself. A master blender with an instinct for balance, he brings character to every bottle. And while the farm may not produce every apple, it certainly imparts its own terroir through the land, the barns, and the quiet, purposeful rhythm of the work. Tom and Ria In this Cider Chat Blending Tradition with Innovation Tom is now experimenting with distillation: apple brandy, pommeau-style blends, and barrel-aged perry into brandy too! He’s careful with naming, refusing to call something a “Pommeau” unless it honors French tradition. Barrels sourced from rum, sherry, port, bourbon, and white wine shape each unique blend. Tasting in the Barrel Room In the barrel room We tasted perries straight from the barrel—some from single ancient trees, others blended with gin pears or red pear varieties. Each sip revealed: Confectionary sweetness Banana, melon, pineapple notes Mellow malolactic fermentation This isn’t a showpiece cidery as Tom puts it, “It’s a working farm“, evolving from a hop yard and now cider. Tom calls it “just a part of the agricultural calendar.” No pretense, just purpose. Tom Oliver straddles the line between tradition and experimentation with ease. Whether it’s a single-varietal showcase or a spirit-kissed blend, the goal remains the same: make cider that speaks of time, place, and people. Contact info for Oliver’s Cider and Perry Co. Website: https://www.oliversciderandperry.co.uk Mentions in this Cider Chat 2025 Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition Send an email to info@ciderchat.com to get on the wait list for the next cider tour! Tom Oliver Featured episodes: 029 Tom Oliver| Oliver’s Cider and Perry, UK 105 Tom Oliver on Making Perry | UK 366 Acclaimed Cider w/Minimal Intervention | Tom Oliver
Celebrating Perry’s Past, Present, and Future Tom Oliver began his keynote by saying, "At this year’s Applefest Banquet, I had the honor of lifting a glass to the people behind the pear—specifically Perry. It wasn’t just a toast to the drink itself, but to the incredible commitment behind its preservation and craft." Tom Oliver Three Perry Legends Charles Martel Known for his Stinking Bishop cheese and peri-based products. Catalogued disappearing peri pear varieties, creating the first national collection at the Three Counties Showground. His book on Gloucestershire pears remains a landmark work. Jim Chapman Solicitor turned perry champion. Discovered the Hartbury Green pear and launched the Hartbury Orchard Centre. Now curates over 100 varietals displayed annually at the Malvern Autumn Show. Prefers dry, still perry—no bubbles, no fuss. Kevin Minchew Perry pioneer bottling single varietals long before it was fashionable. Crafted standout perries like Gin and Huffcap in whiskey barrels. His final release, Last Hurrah, is a 23-year-aged marvel at 11% ABV. Why Perry Matters "Each of these individuals helped elevate Perry to something worth saving, savoring, and sharing. Their legacies shape not just what’s in our glass—but how we think about heritage, land, and tradition. Let’s keep their torch lit. Raise your glass—Perry!" quote from Tom Oliver AppleFest menu Contact info for Oliver’s Cider and Perry Website: https://www.oliversciderandperry.co.uk Contact info for Hereford AppleFest Website: https://herefordcitycouncil.gov.uk/hereford-applefest-2025/ The AppleFest will be taking a pause for 2025 - stay tuned for 2026 Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours - UK Cider Tour 2025 Ciderganza at Ross Cider and Perry Co. Gabe Cook - Ciderologist Hereford Beer House - United Kingdom Jane Peyton Keynote Episode 440: Jane Peyton Keynote |Hereford AppleFest Banquet
Drew Phillips opened the doors of Four Phantoms in Greenfield, Massachusetts in 2021. He began his fermentation career in the Pacific Northwest, and while waiting to open his own brewery, he took on the role as cider maker at Artifact Cider Project. Drew Phillips Known for his creative ciders and beers, Drew blends tradition with innovation, sourcing local fruit and experimenting with wild fermentation. Check out his talk on the making of Old Gods . In this episode, Drew shares how Four Phantoms’ unique approach reflects the terroir of Western Massachusetts. Early Challenges of a Brewery/Cidery: Gaining a License Drew initially couldn’t produce cider legally due to licensing restrictions in Massachusetts. After securing a farmer winery license, he started making cider alongside beer and mead. All ciders are crafted from Pine Hill fruit in Colrain, Massachusetts. Signature Ciders and Fermentation Techniques Late Harvest – 6.5% Apples (Spy, Golden Russet and Baldwin) Tamlane – 6% 100% Macintosh apples, aged on black birch wood, giving it a herbal, German liqueur note. Redfield – 7.7% 100% Redfield apples – A red-fleshed apple cider with natural acidity and structure. Chapin’s Waltz – 8.5% A blend of Golden Russet, Baldwin, and Northern Spy, co-fermented with low intervention. King of the Wharf – 7.5% A Mac-based cider aged on rum-soaked oak chips, giving it a smooth, warming finish. Old Gods – 8% Inspired by Finnish farmhouse brewing, fermented on black birch. Listen to Episode 345 on how Old Gods a Co-Fermentation of Wort and Apple Juice was made! Ciders Tasted during this chat Low Intervention and Sense of Place Drew emphasizes low-intervention cider making — no back-sweetening, minimal sulfites, and natural wild cultures. The ciders reflect the unique qualities of Western Massachusetts apples and local wood aging. Poly tanks and oak aging contribute to the distinctive flavors and textures. Community and the Future of Four Phantoms Four Phantoms Tasting Area by the production room Drew values the connection between local agriculture and cider. He sees cider’s future as more craft-focused than beer, with room for independent voices. “Cider resists commercialization,” says Drew. “It’s about sense of place.” Contact Info for Four Phantoms Website: https://fourphantoms.net Mentions in this Cider Chat Totally Cider Tours Cider Route Itinerary send a request to Cider Chat Cider Rap Song – by Robert Sherman of EsoTerra Ciderworks in Durango, Colorado
In this Season 10 premier of Cider Chat, "Introductions" are featured from over 40 persons in attendance at the annual 2025 Berkshire Roundtable. Kicking off Season 10 of Cider Chat The opportunity to begin Season 10 with "Hellos" from a wide range of people in the cider community is the perfect fit for this milestone episode. Here at Cider Chat Central we hope that this Season opener acts as a reminder that there is a wealth of knowledge at hand at a grass roots level in every region of the US. Of course, this holds true for other countries as well and right about now this reminder feels very timely. In Wisdom Lies Hope — hope for sustaining orchard ecosystems, hope that information can be passed on, history can be preserved and through shared learning and collaboration we can all create a better world. We wish you all strength in knowing that so many others are working toward the same goal of stewarding this earth with care and intention. That shared purpose is a source of hope and resilience, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. What is the Berkshire Roundtable? The Berkshire Roundtable is an annual gathering held each March at Stump Sprouts, a rustic retreat center in Buckland, Massachusetts. This event brings together orchardists, cider makers, and industry professionals to exchange ideas and strengthen community ties. Meetings take place over the course of a day and a half, in a large room at the retreat with everyone sitting in a round circle. Berkshire Roundtable group photo New Beginning for the Berkshire Roundtable The Berkshire Roundtable has been taking place for the past 35 years! Micheal Phillips was integral in starting this meetup of orchardist and makers. In 2012, the Holistic Orchard Network (HON) was founded by Michael Phillips. His influential book, The Holistic Orchard, continues to be sought after by orchardists around the world. Find more of his books at the Cider Books Resource page on this website. Michael passed away unexpectedly while out in his New Hampshire orchard on February 27 2022. Today, HON continues on with leadership from Micheal Biltonen and others. Michael's work is continuing on by his wife Nancy and daughter Gracie Phillips and the HON work today. Gracie and Nancy Phillips Contact Info for HON and Heartsong Farm/Lost Nation Orchard Holistic Orchard Network with Berkshire Roundtable info : https://holisticorchardnetwork.org/ Heartsong Farm and Lost Nation Orchard Mentions in this Cider Chat 392: Bent Ladder Estate Ciders & Wine | Ohio 408: Cider’s Pomological Life Coach | Know Your Roots, NY 312: Angels Dressed Like Bears | Michael Phillips 1957-2022 Heartsong Farm and Lost Nation Orchard workshops Follow MJ in Australia @getontheciders and his cidery @ciderinfusion Follow Adrian Luna @hardciderguy
Barry Walsh
Zing! 🤣