Cider is a common beverage served at different parties and even at home. It adds charm and elegance to a joyous evening. It was a standard alcoholic beverage before 1920; after that, people relegated cider for various reasons.
Cider has a long and storied history that stretches back thousands of years. While its popularity waned in some regions, recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in this versatile and delicious drink.
From its ancient origins to its modern-day revival, European dry cider culture offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of tradition, innovation, and taste. This article will discuss cider’s rich history and how it resurged now, so continue reading.
Ancient Origins
The roots of cider can be traced back to ancient times, with evidence of its production dating as far back as 1300 BC in regions such as ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. Early civilizations discovered that fermenting the juice of crushed apples produced a refreshing and mildly alcoholic beverage. Over time, cider-making techniques spread throughout Europe, becoming particularly popular in regions with suitable climates for apple cultivation, eliminating the doubt of does hard cider go bad.
Medieval Europe and Beyond
In medieval Europe, European dry cider became an integral part of daily life, consumed by people of all ages and social classes. It was often safer to drink than water, which could be contaminated, and its alcohol content provided a source of hydration without the risk of waterborne diseases. Monasteries played a significant role in the cultivation and refinement of cider-making techniques, with monks developing new varieties of apples and perfecting fermentation methods.
Colonial America
Cider-making arrived in North America with European settlers, who brought apple seeds and saplings on their voyages. Cider quickly became a staple beverage in the American colonies, with orchards springing up across New England and beyond. The prevalence of cider was such that it was even used as a form of currency in some regions, with farmers paying their workers in barrels of the drink.
Decline and Prohibition
Despite its popularity in earlier centuries, the rise of beer and other alcoholic beverages led to a decline in cider consumption worldwide. Additionally, the temperance movement of the 19th and early 20th centuries, culminating in Prohibition in the United States, dealt a severe blow to the cider industry. Many orchards were destroyed, and traditional cider-making knowledge was lost as producers turned to other crops or went out of business.
Modern Resurgence
However, European dry cider has recently experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, fueled in part by a growing interest in craft beverages and artisanal production methods. Cider makers worldwide are rediscovering traditional techniques and experimenting with new flavors and styles, leading to an explosion of creativity in the industry. Consumers are increasingly drawn to cider for its diverse flavors, from crisp and dry to sweet and fruity, and its versatility as a pairing for food.
Craft Cider Movement
The craft cider movement, inspired by the success of craft beer, has played a crucial role in the revival of cider culture. Small-scale producers focus on quality ingredients, sustainable practices, and unique flavor profiles, attracting a new generation of cider enthusiasts. In addition to traditional apple ciders, craft cider makers are experimenting with heirloom apple varieties, wild fermentation, barrel aging, and the addition of other fruits, spices, and botanicals.
Global Diversity
While cider has strong associations with specific regions, such as England, France, and the United States, it is enjoyed in many countries worldwide, each with its unique cider culture. In Spain, for example, cider is often served in a distinctive pouring style called "estancia," pouring it from a height to aerate the liquid and enhance its flavor. In Japan, cider is experiencing a surge in popularity, with producers creating innovative blends using local fruits and flavors and clearing the notion of when does hard cider go bad.
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