Scrumpy cider is a traditional, often rustic style of English cider known for its robust flavors and artisanal production methods. This list covers ten authentic scrumpy ciders from different producers, highlighting what makes each unique and worth trying. Whether you’re a cider enthusiast or new to the world of scrumpy, this guide will help you explore some of the best examples and understand how to pick the right one for your taste.
1. Westons Old Rosie
Westons Old Rosie is one of the most iconic scrumpy ciders from Herefordshire, England. It’s made using traditional methods with bittersweet cider apples, resulting in a cloudy, medium-dry cider with an ABV of 7.3%. Its rich apple aroma and slightly tannic finish make it a staple for anyone wanting an authentic West Country experience.
2. Gwatkin Black Dragon
Gwatkin Black Dragon is a strong scrumpy cider from Herefordshire, boasting an ABV of 8.2%. It’s crafted from a blend of bittersweet and sharp apples, fermented naturally and matured in oak vats. The result is a bold, complex cider with deep fruit flavors and a dry, lingering finish that appeals to those who enjoy a powerful, traditional cider.
3. Thatchers Katy
Thatchers Katy is a single-varietal scrumpy cider made exclusively from Katy apples grown in Somerset. This cider is slightly sweeter than many scrumpies, offering bright apple flavors with a refreshing crispness and a smooth finish. At 5.2% ABV, it’s a great introduction to scrumpy styles that balance tradition with approachability.
4. Dunkertons Organic Vintage Cider
Dunkertons produces this organic scrumpy from Herefordshire apples, emphasizing natural fermentation and minimal intervention. The cider is cloudy with a medium-dry profile and an ABV of around 6.8%. It features a blend of bittersweet and sharp apples, giving it a vibrant acidity balanced by earthy, tannic notes that highlight the orchard’s terroir.
5. Gwatkin Redstreak
Redstreak is a traditional English cider named after the Redstreak apple, a once-popular cider apple variety. Gwatkin’s version is a medium-dry scrumpy with an ABV of 6.8%, showcasing fresh apple aromas and a subtle bitterness. It’s unfiltered and unpasteurized, preserving the authentic rustic character prized in scrumpy ciders.
6. Orchard Pig Scrumpy
Orchard Pig Scrumpy is a modern take on traditional scrumpy, produced in Somerset with a blend of bittersweet apples. It’s unfiltered and naturally cloudy, with an ABV of 6%. This cider is known for its bold apple flavor, balanced acidity, and slightly tannic finish, making it a popular choice among those who want a lively but authentic scrumpy experience.
7. Sheppy’s Farmhouse Cider
Sheppy’s Farmhouse Cider is crafted from apples grown on the family farm in Somerset, using traditional methods including natural fermentation and bottle conditioning. The cider is medium-dry with an ABV close to 6%, featuring a cloudy appearance and a rich, fruity character. Its balance of sweetness and acidity, combined with a rustic mouthfeel, makes it a classic farmhouse scrumpy.
8. Westcombe Organic Cider
Westcombe Organic Cider from Somerset is made using organic bittersweet apples, fermented with wild yeasts and matured in oak vats. It has a cloudy, unfiltered look and a medium-dry profile with an ABV of 6.5%. The cider delivers earthy apple flavors with a crisp acidity, appealing to those who appreciate organic and traditional cider-making techniques.
9. Sheppy’s Cider Mill Vintage
Sheppy’s Cider Mill Vintage is another strong scrumpy-style cider from Sheppy’s, made from a blend of traditional cider apples and matured to develop complexity. With an ABV of about 7%, it offers a full-bodied profile, rich in tannins and apple character, and a slightly dry finish. This vintage-style cider is prized for its depth and the authenticity of farmhouse cider production.
10. Dunkertons Ciderhouse Dry
Dunkertons Ciderhouse Dry is a modern scrumpy with traditional roots, made from bitter and sharp apples and naturally fermented. It is unfiltered and cloudy, with an ABV of 6.8%. The cider is known for its crisp acidity, balanced tannins, and a dry finish, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a genuine scrumpy that pairs well with food.
How to Choose
When selecting a scrumpy cider, the key factors to consider are apple varieties used, fermentation method, sweetness level, and strength (ABV). Traditional scrumpies often use bittersweet and sharp cider apples, which impart tannins and acidity, resulting in a complex, dry profile. Unfiltered and naturally fermented ciders tend to have more character and a rustic appearance. Consider whether you prefer stronger ciders (above 7% ABV) for bold flavor or milder options (around 5-6%). Also, organic or single-varietal scrumpies offer distinct tastes influenced by the orchard and production style. Finally, packaging and producer reputation can guide you toward consistent quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is scrumpy cider? Scrumpy is a traditional English cider typically made from bittersweet and sharp apples, often unfiltered and naturally fermented, resulting in a cloudy, robust drink.
Is scrumpy cider stronger than regular cider? Generally, yes. Scrumpy often has a higher alcohol content, ranging from 6% to over 8% ABV, compared to many commercial ciders that hover around 4-5%.
Why is scrumpy cider cloudy? Scrumpy is usually unfiltered, so it retains apple solids and natural yeast, which cause the cloudy appearance and contribute to its fuller flavor.
Can you find scrumpy cider outside the UK? While scrumpy is traditionally English, many specialty cider shops and online retailers worldwide import it, especially from Herefordshire and Somerset producers.
Is scrumpy cider gluten-free? Yes, cider is made from apples and is naturally gluten-free, including scrumpy, unless additives containing gluten are introduced (which is rare).
How should scrumpy cider be served? Scrumpy is best served chilled but not ice-cold, around 8-12°C (46-54°F), to preserve its complex flavors and aromas.
Final Thoughts
Scrumpy cider offers a rich, authentic taste of traditional English cider-making, with bold flavors and rustic charm that set it apart from mass-produced ciders. Exploring different producers and styles reveals a spectrum of complexity, from sweeter single-varietal ciders to strong, tannic blends. Whether you’re seeking a robust farmhouse experience or a refined organic option, scrumpy cider provides a rewarding journey for cider lovers. Keep in mind the apple varieties, production methods, and alcohol strength to find the perfect scrumpy that suits your palate.
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