Autumn is a season of change, with vibrant colours from the trees changing, all of the cosy jumpers coming back out and of course, this is when it’s also apple season. With Apple Day on October 21st, what better time to delve into the history of apples, which are synonymous with West Country life here in the UK. Why is it that we have this fascination with the apple and how do we celebrate it? And why not take the opportunity to spotlight some of the fabulous apple juice and cider producers we have here at Boxlocal: Bradleys, Pulpt, and Ganley and Naish.
The History of Apples and the West Country
Apples go hand in hand with West Country life, whether “Drink up thy zider” is your wurzels song of choice, or you are mesmerised by the fields and fields of apple trees in the area, this love affair with the apple dates back centuries. Apples have been grown in this region since Roman times, with orchards flourishing thanks to the ideal climate and soil conditions. The tradition of cider making in the West
Country is a proud one, be it honing some of the finest ciders in the world or the local delicacy known as “scrumpy”, an acquired taste and known to some as the rough stuff.
Whichever variety tickles your fancy you know that the magic of cider has been passed through generations of families who have perfected their craft.
The introduction of specific apple varieties such as the Kingston Black and Dabinett, known for their excellent cider-making qualities, helped establish the region’s reputation. Today, the West Country continues to be a major hub for apple growing and cider production, blending traditional methods with modern techniques.
How and Why Do We Celebrate the Apple?
Apple Day, celebrated on October 21st this year, is a day dedicated to appreciating the diversity and significance of apples. Initiated by Common Ground in 1990, Apple Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of orchards, traditional varieties, and the cultural heritage of apple growing.
Celebrations often include apple tastings, cider sampling, apple pressing demonstrations, and family- friendly events at orchards and community centres. These festivities highlight the versatility of apples, from culinary uses to their role in producing refreshing apple juice and cider.
Spotlight on Local Apple Juice and Cider Producers
Bradleys
Bradleys pride themselves on being “quintessentially Somerset”, they are a family-run business known for their exceptional apple juice. Using only hand picked apples from their orchards in Somerset, Bradleys produces juice that is pure, fresh, and bursting with flavour. Their commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that every bottle of Bradleys apple juice is a true taste of the West Country.
Pulpt
Pulpt is dedicated to crafting real cider, cider without compromise, that celebrates the true essence of apples. Hailing from Somerton in Somerset, their approach involves using traditional methods combined with a passion for innovation. Pulpt sources apples from local orchards, ensuring that every sip of their cider is packed with the rich flavours and aromas that define the West Country's apple heritage.
Ganley and Naish
Ganley and Naish produce artisan craft ciders, using apples from their very own orchard in Kenn, North Somerset. Ganley and Naish use traditional techniques passed down through generations, with Andy the founder being a 4th generation cider maker. Their ciders are made from 100% pure apple juice, fermented naturally to create a drink that is both complex and refreshing. Ganley and Naish's dedication to preserving the authentic taste of West Country cider makes them a standout in the world of cider making.
So if you’re not already a seasoned cider or apple juice buff, celebrate this October and say cheers with a glass of appley goodness from one of these fabulous suppliers or add a cider to your next hamper order, with a nod to the West Country tradition.
And, if you happen to be West Country bound on October 21st, celebrate Apple Day at one of the many local orchards, participate in community events, and indulge in the delicious apple products that make this season so special.
Discover our selection of apple juices and ciders in the Build Your Own hamper section and enjoy the true taste of the West Country.
