Cider Chat

In Episode 423 of Cider Chat, we delve into the fascinating world of apple identification a.k.a. Apple Id with the one and only John Bunker, a renowned author and the c0-founder of FEDCO Trees, Maine Organic Farmers and Gardners Association (MOFGA). Hear as he shares his lifelong passion for tracking down historic apple varieties and teaching others how to preserve these treasures is truly inspiring. This presentation is part one of a two-part series on Apple ID recorded at CiderCon2024. John Bunker portrait by John Alsop of Cornville, ME Hear John Bunker walking us through the intricacies of apple identification, reminding us that it's not just about identifying a fruit — it's about preserving history. For orchardists and cider makers, understanding the varieties in your care is a crucial part of maintaining the integrity of your orchard and the quality of your cider apples. 00:00 Introduction to Cider Chat and Apple Mysteries 01:37 John Bunker's Apple Identification Journey 04:11 The Importance of Apple Identification 10:11 Understanding Apple Trees and Grafting 21:39 Resources for Apple Identification 25:37 DNA Profiling and Apple Identification 30:12 Practical Apple Identification Scenarios 33:40 Mentors and the Black Oxford Apple 34:39 DNA Profiling and Apple Identification 37:06 The Mystery of the Canadian Strawberry 38:52 The Hunt for Lost Apples 41:36 Identifying Seedlings and Grafted Trees 45:49 Commercial Orchards and Misidentified Apples 48:47 The Role of Historical Records in Apple Identification 53:26 The Fun and Challenges of Apple Hunting 58:05 Becoming an Apple Detective 01:04:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Contact for John Bunker Website: Outonthelimbapple.com Books recommended in this episode: Apples and the Art of Detection by John Bunker (2019) Systemic Pomology by UP Hedrick 1925 The American Fruit Culturist: Containing Practical Directions for the Propagation and Culture of All Fruits Adapted to the United States, John Thomas 1849 The Fruit Manual, Robert Hogg 1886 Episode 422 John Bunker Keynote: Orchards and Legacy Subscribe to Cider Chat YouTube Totally Cider Tours - French Cider Tour

New York Apple Camp Keynote Address by John Bunker In a captivating keynote from the 2023 New York Apple Camp, John Bunker, the founder of FEDCO Trees and renowned author on apple identification, shared his profound connection to the outdoors. John Bunker in his favorite shirt and barefeet Enjoy the Keynote by John that weaves his passion for Jazz, quotes from thought leaders and his insights on the late frost of 2023 and the community surrounding apples, cider and plants. In This Keynote Address Find 5 key areas that John bunker focused on during his speech. Connection to Nature and OrchardsObservations Learnings from Plants Environmental and Agricultural Reflections Philosophical Musings and Inspirations Legacy and Passing the Torch View from above of John Bunker's Keynote Subscribe to Cider Chat for Part 2 with John Bunker – Apple ID 101 w/John Bunker coming out in Episode 423 – August 21, 2024 What is the New York Apple Camp? The camp took place for the first time ever in July of 2023. It was held at the Ashokan Camp in New York State. The Ashokan Center is an independent music & nature nonprofit established in 2008. The musical history of this camp was a perfect fit for John's keynote which also featured many references to musicians and songs. Mentions in this Cider Chat 374: NY Apple Camp News! Bonus Cider Chat Live on NY Apple Camp 380: The Legacy of the Downing Brothers: Architects of Nature 388: French Origins of American Apples | The Grand-Mères 385: Cider's Ki – Remix French Cider Tour 2024

Eli Shanks' of Punta de Fierro Fine Cider In this episode meet Eli Shanks, a passionate cider maker sharing his journey from urban Massachusetts to the picturesque landscapes of Chile, where he co-founded Punta de Fierro Cider. Eli developed an early interest in food systems and agriculture with influences from attending The Farm School, working at The Food Project and running an orchard in Concord, Massachusetts. Eli Shanks with bottle of Punta de Fierro The History of Cider in Chile Chile has a rich tradition in fermenting apples into cider. Historically, cider production was a significant part of the local economy. Families were taxed based on their cider tank space, and cider apples were a staple in many homes. Chilean cider, known as "Chicha", is a farmhouse product with various local recipes, often fermented naturally with residual sugar. Organizations and Collaborations Eli has co-founded the Chilean Cider Collective (COSIGI), which aims to preserve and promote Chile's unique cider heritage. COSIGI works closely with the Department of Agriculture and other local organizations to support cider makers and enhance cider production quality. Mother Pudu with baby Chilean Ciders Tasted in this Episode Punta de Fierro - is both the name of the cidery and the cider itself. This particular cider tasted during the recording was made in 2022. It was bottle #61 out of 771 bottles in total. All the apples came from one single orchard that Eli and his business partner Carlos Flores produce cider on. TenCai Sidra - this cidery is owned by Rene Galindo. We tried two ciders during the recording. The first cider called The Truth. This cider was co-fermented with an indigenous berry called Maqui. They are smaller than blueberries and lend a purplish hue to the cider. The second cider -called Futura was made by first grinding the apples and allowing them to macerate for approximately 24hours. The apple blend is Reineta and Braeburn. All the ciders were feremented dry and are delicious! Contact Info for Punta de Fierro Website: https://puntadefierro.com/ Contact Info for TenCai Sidra Website: https://tencaisidra.cl/ Mentions in this Cider Chat Cider Chat info flyer - scroll down this page and download and post flyer! Tag Cider Chat and use hashtag #xpromotecider ciderGoingUP Campaign page - find a list of business supporting Cider Chat!

Basque Cheesecake and Santa Cruz Cider Cider Chat Live brings you a tasting of a celebratory cider from Santa Cruz Cider Company paires with a what is called Basque Cheesecake! Basque Cheesecake is much less dense than classic New York cheesecake. It is crustless, and has a golden, beautiful caramelized exterior. It also has a much lighter texture and flavor. The cheesecake is baked at a high temperature in order to get that burnt exterior and super creamy interior. In this Live on Cheesecake and Cider from Santa Cruz! This mini episode came about when Nicole Todd who cofounded Santa Cruz Cider Company in California with her sister Natalie. Nicole was traveling east to Maine with fellow book club members who she has been meeting monthly since covid kicked off in 2020. They spent the evening with Ria, went for a swim to avoid the heat and drank copious amounts of cider and ended the evening with a special pairing of the 10 year anniversary cider with the Basque Cheesecake. Hear about this anniversary cider and how it all started with foraged fruit in the Monterey Bay area of California. It is one part picking up fruit that turned into a relationship with an older orchardist in the Watsonville area of California. Listen to past episodes with Nicole: 060: Nicole Todd | Santa Cruz Cider Company, CA 280: Why the Cider Maker Wears Fuzzy Slippers – describes the harrowing house fire that Nicole and her husband Felix survived! Contact for Santa Cruz Cider Company Website: https://santacruzciderco.com/

Wooden Gate: From Farm to Cidery with Clint Caver Clint Cavers and his wife Pamela have been farming for over 30 years at Wooden Gate The Farm and cidery is based in Pilot Mound, Manitoba, Canada which is right over the border of North Dakato. Clint's journey from hobby fermenter to full-time cider maker now represents 95% of their farm's focus. Initially homesteaders, they shifted towards cider making due to a passion for fermentation. Clint began making wine and cider about 25 years ago, initially with fruit wines before discovering the potential of apples. The Shift to Full-Time Cider Making In 2018, Clint and Pam decided to turn their cider-making hobby into a business. By 2019, Wooden Gate obtained its official license, and in 2020, it became a full-time venture. This shift was motivated by their desire for a less labor-intensive activity and a need for fulfilling work after their children left home. Orchard and Apple Varieties Wooden Gate's orchard spans seven acres with about 800 trees, including winter-hardy varieties like Goodland Norkent Norland Kerr – which is featured in the Orchard Queen cider that is tasted and discussed in this episode and various crab apples such as Rescue and Trail They have also planted heritage varieties and some English cider apple varieties like Dabinette. Cider Production and Techniques Clint emphasizes slow fermentation at low temperatures, with some fermentations lasting up to six months. Wooden Gate primarily uses cultured yeast, but experiments with wild ferments, particularly in their Orchard Queen cider. They produce about 50 cases of Orchard Queen annually and 300 gallons of other cider varieties. Community and Events Wooden Gate hosts various events, including an annual cider release and pop-up pizza and cider nights. Their son-in-law, a chef, handles the cooking, while their daughter plans events. They also groom cross-country ski trails in the winter, turning them into walking trails in the summer. Five Core Principles of Wooden Gate 1. Community: Creating a sense of community around their cider and farm. 2. Environmental Stewardship: Using organic, permaculture, and holistic management practices. 3. Sourcing Locally: Using locally grown fruit and selling locally. 4. Quality: Ensuring their cider represents their farm and Manitoba's unique terroir. 5. Authenticity: Highlighting the distinct flavors of their region in their cider. Contact Info for Wooden Gate Cider Website: https://louisemb.com/m/wooden-gate-cider Mentions in this Cider Chat @spacetimemeads @woodengatecider @cultivarcreativestudio Listen to episode 190 Cider Revitalizes a 1750 Colonial Era Orchard | MA Stone Cow Brewery, Barre Massachusetts

Paving a Path for Cider Branding at Cultivar Meet Kirk Evans, the founder of Cultivar Creative. In this episode, Kirk shares his journey from a casual cider maker to a professional brand designer specializing in cider packaging and identity. Kirk Evans Cultivar Creative focuses on creating comprehensive brand identities that go beyond just a logo. Kirk emphasizes the importance of a cohesive brand voice, graphical elements, and a well-thought-out brand guideline to ensure consistency across all marketing materials. His approach ensures that even small cider brands can present themselves professionally and attractively to consumers. The Journey to Cider Branding at Cultivar Kirk's journey into the cider world began in early 2020 when he decided to try making cider at home. What started as a hobby quickly turned into an obsession, leading him to a career shift. With his extensive experience in design and marketing, Kirk saw a gap in the cider industry for specialized branding services. Thus, Cultivar Creative was born. The Importance of Brand Identity According to Kirk, brand identity in the cider industry involves more than just a logo. It encompasses everything from the brand's voice to the graphical elements used in packaging. A strong brand identity helps cider makers communicate their story effectively and stand out on crowded shelves. Kirk's process includes creating detailed brand guidelines that outline all aspects of the brand's visual and verbal identity. This comprehensive approach ensures that every piece of marketing material aligns with the brand's core message and appeals to its target audience. Branding Tips for Cider Makers Know Your Brand: Understand who you are as a brand and what you want to convey to your customers. Be Bold: Don't be afraid to be bold and disruptive with your branding. Standing out is crucial in a competitive market. Consistency is Key: Ensure your branding is consistent across all platforms, from social media to packaging. Invest in Packaging: Eye-catching packaging can make a significant difference in attracting new customers. Contact Info for Cultivar Website: https://cultivarcreative.com/ Mentions in this Cider Chat French Cider Tour 2024 Who's cross promoting cider #xpromotecider @spacetimemeads @sraml_machinery encourage followers to listen to episode 324 featuring Jan Šraml @degerdenner @3dogciderbrewstillery @hardciderguy

Celebrating an Agricultural Legacy and the New England Apple Association The New England Apple Association (NEAA), a venerable institution supporting apple growers across the New England states, will be closing its doors at the end of this fiscal year on June 30, 2024. This announcement, delivered by the NEAA's Executive Director, Russell Steven Powell, marks the end of an 89-year legacy dedicated to promoting and supporting the region's apple industry. Hear Powell on Episode 245 present Apples of New England to the Amherst Historical society: a companion YouTube video of this informative presentation The History of New England Apple Association The NEAA, originally established in 1935 as the New York and New England Apple Institute, has played a pivotal role in the apple industry. The organization has evolved through the decades, reflecting changes in the industry and market dynamics. It became the Northeast Macintosh Growers Association in 1993 after New York established its own marketing organization and was eventually renamed the New England Apple Association. Contributions and Challenges Under the leadership of Russell Steven Powell, who has served as the Executive Director since 1997, the NEAA has been instrumental in various advocacy efforts, marketing campaigns, and educational initiatives aimed at supporting New England apple growers. Powell, an author of two acclaimed books on apples, "America's Apple" and "Apples of New England," has been a prominent figure in the organization, driving its mission forward. Russell Stevens Powell Despite its contributions, the NEAA has faced significant challenges in recent years. Changes in the New England apple industry, a shift from wholesale markets to retail orchards, and the rise of diversified attractions such as pick-your-own, bakeries, and tasting rooms have impacted the organization's traditional business model. This shift, while beneficial for many orchards, appears to have presented a challenge for the NEAA, ultimately leading to the decision to close. The Impact and Future of Apples in New England The closure of the NEAA is a significant loss for the New England apple community. The association has been a valuable resource for apple growers and enthusiasts, providing information on apple varieties, orchard locations, and industry developments. The NEAA's contributions to the agricultural heritage of New England will be remembered fondly. As we reflect on this bittersweet moment, it is crucial to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of individuals like Russell Stevens Powell and the many volunteers who have supported the NEAA over the years. Their efforts have left an indelible mark on the apple industry in New England. Supporting Local Agriculture The closure of the NEAA underscores the importance of supporting local agricultural organizations and initiatives. As Al Sax, who joins Cider Chat Host Ria Windcaller in this episode and is a lifelong champion of apple cider making and education, highlights in this episode, the sustainability of local agriculture depends on active participation and support from the community. Organizations like the American Cider Association, state-level cider guilds, and other regional agricultural groups play a vital role in promoting and preserving our agricultural heritage. Vote With Your Dollars Al discussed how he makes his money count by, "voting with your dollars." This philosophy underscores the importance of using our financial choices to support the organizations and causes we believe in. By purchasing memberships, donating, and buying products from local orchards and agricultural associations, we can directly impact their sustainability and success. Al practices what he preaches, supporting CiderChat and other agricultural initiatives that align with his passion for apples and cider. His commitment serves as a reminder that our spending habits can make a meaningful difference in preserving and promoting the agricultural heritage and local businesses we cherish. Contact Emails for the New England Apple Association Russ Holmberg, Chair: russellholmberg@gmail.com - Holmberg Orchards, Gales Ferry, Connecticut Steve Rowse, Vice-Chair: steve@newenglandapple.com Giff Burnap, Secretary/Treasurer: giffandmae@butternutfarm.net - Butternut Farm, Farmington, New Hampshire Mentions in this Cider Chat PA Cider Fest – June 15, 2024 Use Promo Code: CIDERVILLE for $10 tickets! French Cider Tour 2024 Who's cross promoting cider #xpromotecider @spacetimemeads @redislandcider @degerdenner

Crank the Bach & Go Boating with Green Bench in Hand Brian Wing of Green Bench Mead and Cider is a classical music fan. Green Bench is located in Saint Petersburg, Florida and Brian was recently on episode 398 which is a must listen. Usually, we wait a bit here at Cider Chat Central to have a guest back on, but when a delivery of cider arrived from Brian, with 4 select bottles, the opportunity arose once again have a chat. Single Varietals to Bach Chamber Blends Black Twig: An Earthy Delight Brian starts the conversation by discussing the Black Twig, a cider crafted from the 2022 crop. This cider showcases a unique blend of 80% Black Twig and 20% Chestnut Crab apples. Brian describes the Black Twig as having a peachy blush color with a flavor profile that includes low acidity, apple Redfield: The Rosé of Ciders The Redfield, a single varietal cider made from 100% Redfield apples. Known for its vibrant red flesh, this cider offers a stunning color and a flavor profile dominated by cranberry and citrus aromas. Brian highlights the high acidity and minerality of this cider, making it a perfect rosé alternative for brunch or any occasion. Malus: A Flagship Cider Brian introduces the Malus, a cider that he considers the flagship of Green Bench. This cider is a blend of 12-13 apple varieties, including Dabinett, Kingston Black, Chisel Jersey, Black Twig, Chestnut, and Hughes Crab. The result is a balanced and rounded cider with a complex flavor profile that pays homage to French ciders. With an alcohol by volume of just over 7%, the Malus is a versatile and drinkable cider. Celebrity Chef Brian Duffy loved the Malus – listen to this special ep: 401 Episode 401: Celebrity Chef Brian Duffy | Cider Pairing Tips Chaconne: A High Acid Symphony The final cider discussed is the Chaconne, named after Johann Sebastian Bach's Partita No. 2. This high acid cider is a blend of Wickson, Yates, and Harrison apples. Brian describes the Chaconne as having intense pear and citrus aromas, a mouthwatering acidity, and a unique flavor profile that includes tropical fruit and a touch of black pepper. The label, featuring three robed skeletons playing violins, adds to the artistic and esoteric nature of this cider. Listen to Johann Sebastian Bach's Violinist Jascha Heifetz is featured via the link below Album cover for Jascha Heifetz which features Bach Chaconne d-Moll aus der Partita Nr. 2 https://archive.org/details/chaconne-d-moll-heifetz Contact for Green Bench Brewing, Mead & Cider Website https://www.greenbenchbrewing.com/mead-cider Listen to Episode 398: Cider in Florida? Visit Green Bench Brewing, Mead & Cider Mentions in this Cider Chat PA Cider Fest – June 15, 2024 Who's been cross promoting cider #xpromotecider French Cider Tour 2024 Who's cross promoting cider #xpromotecider @spacetimemeads Social Scranton on Facebook – page for the city of Scranton, PA @degerdenner @tomoliverscider @ciderexplorer @thompsons_brood

What exactly are Cider Hybrids Exploring Cider Hybrids and Co-ferments as recored at a panel discussion at CiderCon 2024. The terminology for this category is still developing, reflecting the innovative and experimental nature of these beverages. As producers continue to explore and create unique blends and co-ferments, the language will evolve to better capture the diversity and creativity inherent in these new cider expressions. In this episode of Cider Chat Delve into the innovative and creative world of cider hybrids and co-ferments with a panel of expert cider makers from around the globe to discuss the nuances, challenges, and joys of creating these unique beverages. The discussion opens with a brief introduction to the panelists: Christine Hardy – Co-owner and cider maker at Riley's Cidery on Bowen Island, BC, and board member of the Cider Institute of North America. Tom Oliver – Cider and Perry maker at Oliver's Cider and Perry in Herefordshire, England. Ryan Burk – Owner and cider maker at Occam Cider. Johan Sjöstedt – Founder and cider maker at Pomologik in Sweden. Kathleen Cherry – Winemaker and co-owner of Calche Wine Cooperative in Vermont. Tariq – Cider maker at Revel Cider in Ontario, Canada. (ltor) Tariq Ahmed, Kathline Chery, Johan Sjöstedt, Ryan Burk, Tom Oliver Panelist Questions on the topic of Cider Hybrids Defining Cider Hybrids and Co-ferments: Challenges and Regulatory Issues in this category Innovative Ingredients and Techniques Marketing and Consumer Perception Advice for Aspiring Cider Makers Contact Information for Speakers: Christine Hardy – Riley's Cidery Tom Oliver – Oliver's Cider and Perry – Listen to Episode 366 with Tom Ryan Burk – Occam Cider Johan Sjöstedt – Pomologik – Listen to Episode 399 with Johan Kathline Chery – Kalche Wine Cooperative Tariq Ahmed – Revel Cider Listen to Episode 405 with Tariq Mentions in this Cider Chat PA Cider Fest – June 15, 2024 Locust Grove Brewing Company – Milton, New York Who's been cross promoting cider #xpromotecider French Cider Tour 2024 Who's cross promoting cider #xpromotecider @degerdenner @Berkshire_Cider @deansbeanscoffee Albemarle Cider Works @lapommelie

Businesses Certified as a B Corp Stand Out! Explore the benefits of B Corp certification with leaders from solar, candle, coffee, and cider industries. Learn about their challenges and successes in creating positive social and environmental impact. In this Cider Chat Enjoy this informative panel discussion led by Bridget Sprague of Revision Energy with Ted Barber of Prosperity Candle, Beth Spong of Dean's Beans Organic Coffee and Kat Hand of Berkshire Cider Project. Listen as they share their experiences, challenges, and successes in becoming and maintaining B Corp certified. The conversation highlights the value of this business model in creating positive social and environmental impact through business. Feature with B Corps begins at (10:04 minutes) Introduction to B Corps Guest Introductions and Their Businesses Bridget Sprague: Vice President at Revision Energy, a solar company based in Maine and Massachusetts, B Corp since 2015, 100% employee-owned, nearly 500 employees. Ted Barber: Co-founder of Prosperity Candle, B Corp since 2014, supporting refugees through handmade products. Beth Spong: CEO of Dean's Beans Organic Coffee, established in 1993, focusing on organic, fair trade coffee, and recently became a worker-owned cooperative. Kat Hand: Co-founder of Berkshire Cider Project, B Corp since April 2023, focused on celebrating the Berkshire region through locally sourced hard cider. Why They Became B Corps Bridget Sprague: To ensure accountability and maintain a high standard of business practices. Ted Barber: The combination of environmental sustainability and social impact aligned with their mission to support refugees. Beth Spong: To affirm their mission of social, economic, and environmental justice through specialty coffee. Kat: To align their business with personal values of sustainability and accountability. Challenges and Wins as a B Corp Community and Marketing Impact The Panel Shares their Favorite B Corps Find a B Corp in your Area and Industry Go to the following website to find a B Corp: https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/ Current list of Cider Brands certified as a B Corp Berkshire Cider Project | Massachusetts Since 2023 Ernest Cider Ltd Since 2017 Ramborn Cider, Luxembourg Since 2020 FinnRiver Farm and Cidery, Washington state Since 2015 Sxollie, South Africa Since 2022 How to get Certified as a B Corp Website: https://bcorporation.uk/b-corp-certification/what-is-a-b-corp/ Contact for B Corp Panel Speakers Bridget Sprague – Revision Energy B Corp since 2015 Website: Revision Energy Ted Barber – Prosperity Candle B Corp since 2014 Website: Prosperity Candle Beth Spong – Dean's Beans Organic Coffee B Corp since 2018 Website: Dean's Beans Organic Coffee Kat Hand – Berkshire Cider Project B Corp since 2023 Website: Berkshire Cider Project Mentions in this Cider Chat PA Cider Fest – June 15, 2024 Who's been cross promoting cider #xpromotecider @ThyCider @degerdenner @yanngilles.cidre @raging_cider @rawcider @pressthenpress @ciderexplorer @sowamsciderworks @ryan_and_caseyliquors French Cider Tour 2024