A recent segment on CBS Sunday Morning discussed hard cider and how its growing popularity has us all raising a glass to an old American tradition of cider-making. While this drink virtually disappeared in America post-prohibition, it has been rediscovered and is once again in great demand.
Presidents Thomas Jefferson and George Washington were orchardists that pressed apples from their farms and fermented them into cider. By the beginning of the 18th century, 300,000 gallons worth of cider were produced in New England, and by 1750, a typical person living in Massachusetts drank around 35 gallons annually.
Photo by Coco Van der Wolk
Nearly 100 years after prohibition, the delicious, bubbly beverage is making a resurgence and becoming cool once again. In 2012, sales increased by a reported 62%, which was more than any other alcoholic beverage in America. What makes this drink so appealing is that it is a mix between beer and wine.
Personally, hard cider has recently become my drink of choice. Not only does it taste like a crisp, fizzy juice, but the appearance of it being a beer masks some of its frilliness.
So, while it helps me appear chill enough to hang with the frat stars, I am essentially just drinking an alcoholic juice box; it’s a double win. Don’t be fooled, though. This fruity drink packs a nice punch. When sweeter apples are used, the alcohol level increases, making it the same strength as a hearty beer.
So, when you next want to responsibly enjoy a drink, consider a hard cider and cheers to the rediscovered craft of our founding fathers.
Photo by Coco Van der Wolk
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