Why is Craft Cider the Hottest Trend in Beverages?

Posted on September 27, 2024

Imagine entering a charming taproom, filled with the intoxicating aroma of fermenting apples and the cheerful buzz of fellow cider enthusiasts.

Craft cider has taken the beverage world by storm, captivating taste buds and piquing curiosity. But what makes it so irresistible?

In this article, we will explore the rise of craft cider and uncover the secrets behind its growing popularity. So sit back, grab a glass of your favorite cider, and join us on this journey of discovery.

A New Era for Craft Beverages

The resurgence of craft cider can be compared to the earlier craft beer movement, where small-scale producers began to reclaim traditional methods and ingredients, breathing new life into a historic beverage. Just as craft beer enthusiasts sought out diverse flavors and unique brewing techniques, cider-makers are now capturing the essence of their regional apples and heritage varieties.

You can think of craft cider as the art of pressing the story of the orchard into each bottle. Artisanal cideries emphasize local, often heirloom, apple varieties, allowing these distinctive fruits to shape the flavor profile of their creations, much like how craft brewers delve into hop varieties and malts for their diverse brews. It’s about the connection to the land, the heritage, and creating a product that is authentic and steeped in history.

Innovation in Every Bottle

The beauty of cider innovation lies in the creativity and techniques employed by modern cider makers. One standout method is the use of spontaneous fermentation, which means relying on wild yeast present on the apple skins or in the environment to kick-start the fermentation process. This low intervention approach allows nature’s quirks to shine, resulting in ciders with unique and unpredictable flavor profiles. By avoiding the use of cultured yeasts and additives, cider makers can craft beverages that truly reflect the essence of their particular region and its microflora.

This method not only appeals to those interested in traditional practices but also to health-conscious drinkers who appreciate the natural composition of their beverages. It’s akin to drinking a piece of the orchard, unadulterated and full of character.

Additionally, there is a trend towards incorporating unexpected ingredients and innovative techniques to set craft ciders apart. For instance, some cider makers are experimenting with barrel aging, using not just oak but also whiskey, wine, and even rum barrels to impart complex layers of flavor. Infusing ciders with herbs, spices, and botanicals, such as ginger, lavender, and hibiscus, adds yet another dimension, creating beverages that are as intriguing as they are refreshing.

It’s not uncommon to find ciders flavored with seasonal fruits like berries or tropical delights like pineapple and passionfruit. These experimental approaches allow cider makers to continually surprise and delight their audiences, ensuring there's always something new to discover, whether you are a seasoned patron of the taproom or a first-time visitor.

The emphasis on low intervention cider aligns perfectly with the broader food and drink movement toward sustainability and minimalism. Traditional practices like spontaneous fermentation, combined with the careful selection of apple varieties, result in products that not only boast exceptional taste but also a minimal environmental impact.

Moreover, many cider makers prioritize sourcing organically grown apples or even foraging for wild apples, which further reduces the carbon footprint and supports biodiversity. The appeal of this approach is wide-ranging, capturing the interest of environmentally conscious consumers and those eager to reduce their intake of synthetic substances.

When you enjoy a low intervention cider, you’re not just sipping a tasty beverage; you're partaking in a philosophy that values purity, sustainability, and a deep respect for the natural world. This conscientious approach to crafting cider resonates with a growing segment of drinkers who desire more than just a good drink—they want to feel good about the choices they make.

The Booming Cider Industry

The cider industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with North America now holding 25% of the global cider market. This expanding interest is largely driven by changing consumer preferences and the rise of craft beverages, making cider an increasingly popular choice.

One of the key factors contributing to this growth is the appeal of cider among younger consumers. As of March 2024, around 12% of respondents aged 18 to 29 in the U.S. reported consuming cider, perry, or rice wine. With more people turning to these beverages, it’s no surprise that per capita consumption is projected to reach 6.07 liters by 2028, indicating a steady increase in demand.

Regional sales trends further illustrate cider’s rising popularity. In 2017, states like Illinois saw significant growth, with Chicago experiencing an 8.5% increase in cider volume sales compared to the prior year. Additionally, the dollar value of the U.S. cider market saw a jump from $378 million in 2014 to $436.16 million in 2015, reflecting the steady upward trend in both production and sales.

Related - Craft Beer vs. Cider - Which Has Better Taste Profiles?

Final Words

Craft cider’s resurgence is driven by innovation, sustainability, and growing consumer interest. With expanding market share and increasing demand, the future of craft cider looks bright, offering endless possibilities for cider enthusiasts worldwide.

At Mojave Brewing Company, you’ll find that we bring the same attention to detail and passion for quality to our craft cider as we do to our beloved beers. Our cider is made using the finest apples and pears, selected not just for their taste and quality but also for their ability to create a unique, satisfying flavor profile. We take pride in our low intervention approach, shunning preservatives and added sugars so that each bottle offers nothing but pure, authentic flavor.

Try it today! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to give us a call at (725) 204-1387 or drop an email to [email protected]. Whether you’re stopping by to explore our taproom offerings or picking up a few bottles to go, each taste promises a journey through the orchard, mastered through the art of careful craft. Cheers to discovering the difference that dedication makes!