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Apple wines and Cider

Apple wine, also known as cider, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples. Cider is typically a still or sparkling wine, depending on the level of carbonation present in the final product.

The process of making cider involves crushing apples to extract the juice, which is then fermented with yeast. The fermentation process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired style of the cider. Some ciders may be fermented using wild yeast that is naturally present on the apples, while others may use specific strains of yeast that are added during the fermentation process to control the flavor and aroma of the wine.

Cider can vary widely in flavor and aroma depending on the specific apple varieties used, the fermentation process, and the level of sweetness or dryness in the final product. Some ciders are sweet and fruity, while others are dry and tart. In addition to traditional apple ciders, there are also many flavored ciders available on the market today, including ciders made with fruits like pear, cherry, and peach, as well as ciders flavored with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.

Cider has a long history as a traditional alcoholic beverage in many regions of the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and parts of Europe. While cider may not be as well-known as other types of wine, it remains a popular choice among consumers who enjoy the unique flavor and aroma of this refreshing and versatile beverage.

The market scope for apple wines/cider has been growing rapidly in recent years, driven by some factors including changing consumer preferences, increasing availability of high-quality products, and a growing interest in locally-sourced and artisanal products.

In the United States, the cider market has been expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 10% in recent years, with sales reaching over $1 billion in 2020. This growth has been driven by several factors, including the increasing popularity of craft beverages, a growing demand for gluten-free and low-alcohol options, and a rising interest in locally-sourced and sustainable products.

Outside of the United States, cider has a long history as a traditional alcoholic beverage in many regions of the world, including the United Kingdom, France, Spain, and parts of Europe. The global cider market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for innovative and premium products in both developed and emerging markets.

The market for apple wines/cider is diverse and dynamic, with a wide range of products available to consumers ranging from traditional still or sparkling ciders to flavored and specialty products. As consumer tastes continue to evolve, the market for apple wines/cider is likely to continue expanding, providing opportunities for both established and emerging players in the industry.

There are many players in the market for apple wines/cider, ranging from small, locally-based producers to large, multinational companies. Some of the major players in the global cider market include:

1. The Boston Beer Company: This company, which owns the popular Samuel Adams beer brand, also produces a range of cider products under its Angry Orchard label.

2. Heineken: The Dutch brewing company has a significant presence in the global cider market, with brands like Strongbow and Bulmers.

3. AB InBev: The world's largest beer company has also made significant investments in the cider market, with brands like Stella Artois Cidre and Johnny Appleseed.

4. Aspall: A UK-based producer of premium ciders, Aspall has a long history of crafting high-quality products from locally-sourced apples.

5. C&C Group: An Irish company that produces a range of cider brands, including Magners and Woodchuck.

6. Thatchers Cider: A family-owned UK-based cider producer that has been crafting ciders for over 100 years.

7. Strongbow: A popular cider brand owned by Heineken, Strongbow has a significant presence in many markets around the world.

8. Woodchuck: A US-based cider producer that is known for its range of flavored and specialty ciders.

The commercial production of apple wines/cider involves several stages, including sourcing apples, pressing the apples to extract the juice, fermentation, aging, and bottling. Here is a brief overview of the production process:

1. Sourcing apples: The first step in cider production is sourcing apples. Many cider producers work with local orchards to obtain fresh, high-quality apples for their products.

2. Pressing: Once the apples are sourced, they are typically washed and then pressed to extract the juice. Some cider producers use traditional manual presses, while others use modern mechanical presses to extract the juice.

3. Fermentation: After the juice is extracted, it is typically fermented with yeast to convert the sugars in the juice into alcohol. The fermentation process can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the desired style of the cider.

4. Aging: Once the cider has finished fermenting, it may be aged in barrels or tanks for several months to develop its flavor and aroma.

5. Bottling: Finally, the cider is typically bottled, often with the addition of carbonation to create a sparkling cider. Some cider producers also filter or pasteurize their products to ensure stability and shelf-life.