Cider gets juicier

All cider sold in the UK will now have to have an apple juice content of 35%, according to new government regulations.

The change – which also affects Perry, which will now require a minimum of 35% pear juice – will ensure quality and protect the integrity of category, according to the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM).

Henry Chevallier Guild, chairman of the NACM, commented: “The NACM welcomes the government’s continued willingness to work with us to make positive changes and to understand the unique nature of our industry – like the hugely beneficial contribution made by planting new orchards even though this is an investment measured in decades.

“Their clear determination to consider in detail the duty and definition of cider is to be applauded in the context of the great volume of ‘background noise’ on alcohol in general and cider in particular.

“It is vital if we are to balance the development of sensible legislation and the need to address alcohol misuse then retailers, producers and all other agencies must not muddle the issues – whether that is because of a limited understanding of the facts or as an intentional consequence of placing a narrow interest ahead of the available evidence."

All apple juice-based alcoholic drinks with less than 35% juice will be classified as “made wine”, and as a result will face higher duty.

Guild added: “This not only ensures that mainstream manufacturers can continue to invest in orcharding and processing equipment safe in the knowledge they will not be unfairly penalised. Vitally, it protects the smaller craft end of the market as well. It also clarifies the issue for everyone."

Marinel FitzSimons, 09.11.2010