The Refreshing History and Versatile Nature of Cider
Origins of Making
It has a long history that can be traced back thousands of years. Evidence
shows that as early as 3000 BC, wild apples were gathered and fermented into
alcohol in areas stretching from Central Asia to Europe. The traditional method
of pressing apples to extract sweet cider and fermenting it into an alcoholic
beverage was well established by the Celts and later the Romans brought it
making techniques to England. It became an important part of life and the
economy in certain parts of Western Europe like Britain, France and Spain.
Regions like Normandy and Brittany in France as well as the West Country of
England became renowned for their production.
Different Styles Around the World
While its making traditions spread across much of Europe, different countries
and regions developed unique styles influenced by local apple varieties and
techniques. In England, it is commonly quite dry, sparkling and medium-bodied
while French Ciders
from Normandy and Brittany tend to be sweeter and fuller. Spanish ciders,
like those from the Asturias region, have noticeable aromas of apples and
berries. In America, refreshingly crisp and semi-sweet hard ciders grew popular
and many modern craft variety use a blend of culinary apples. Australian and
New Zealand variety are often inspired by English styles but utilize local
apple cultivars. There's a rich diversity in global styles with something to
satisfy different tastes.
Pairing It with Food
Due to its crisp acidity and lack of heavy tannins found in wine, it is
wonderfully food-friendly and versatile to pair with meals. It can cut through
rich dishes yet is light enough to complement lighter fare. It stands up well
to robust cheeses, goes with roasted and grilled meats, poultry and fish. Its
tartness also pairs beautifully with mushrooms, onions and foods featuring
fruit, stonefruit or berry flavors. Different styles work best with particular
cuisines - dry sparkling ciders suit Asian food while sweet type complement
Mexican dishes like tamales. When enjoyed with food, its fruity complexity
comes forward to enhance flavors on the plate.
Health Benefits of Apples and Cider
There are reasons beyond taste why it is a refreshing beverage. As apples are
pressed and fermented into it, many of their antioxidant and other nutrients
carry over providing health benefits. Apples are high in polyphenols which act
as antioxidants and may help reduce risks of chronic diseases like heart
disease and certain cancers. Fiber in apples promotes digestion. Fermentation
creates probiotic compounds in it beneficial for gut health. Moderate alcohol
is associated with lowering risks of heart attack, stroke and diabetes. The
anthocyanins in apple skins which give color also have anti-inflammatory
properties. Overall, it can be part of a balanced, healthy diet when consumed
in moderation.
Artisan Cider Renaissance
Once a thriving part of rural economies, its production declined through the
20th century as tastes turned more to other alcoholic drinks. However, since
the 1990s, a renaissance of it has been sweeping many countries with consumers
embracing local, artisanal beverages. In America especially, the number of
craft cideries has boomed with cidermakers experimenting with new techniques
and unique blends of heritage and modern apple varieties. This resurgent
industry supports small family farms while promoting cultural traditions.
Exciting developments are also occurring elsewhere with innovations like ice
cider in Canada and sparkling and fruit-infused types globally. Its future
looks bright as appreciation grows for versatile, regional artisanal beverages.
it has a long agricultural history and traditions unique to
places around the world. Its refreshing tasting qualities and versatility with
food, along with potential health attributes, ensure it will continue to be
enjoyed for years to come. Recent industry developments signal exciting times
ahead as appreciation grows for local, artisanal type crafted with care.
About Author:
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold
in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched
articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information
and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravina-pandya-1a3984191)
Comments
Post a Comment