History of Cider

Central to making cider is the core ingredient, the humble apple. The history of the apple is far more interesting than might be imagined. It was the apple on “The Tree of Life” that tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, while in an ancient Greek myth, Hercules stole the apple from the Goddess Hera’s orchard. The apple has a central role in Norse myths (the Gods remain young forever by eating apples) and also features in Irish folklore. Over time the apple has been associated with love, life, fertility, eternal youth, bliss and immortality.

The Romans are thought to have brought apples and cider making to France. However it was not until the Middle Ages when monasteries and abbey’s throughout Europe started making cider that it’s popularity truly expanded. Following the Norman invasion of England in 1066, cider production and popularity flourished in Britain.

Over the centuries the demand for cider waxed and waned throughout the globe. However, today the popularity of cider globally is on a strong upward trend and craft ciders are leading the market with innovative new varieties in Australia.