Cider Chat

Ria Windcaller: Award-winning Cidermaker, Podcaster | Craft Beer Columnist
  • 4.8 (85)
  • FOOD
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Interviewing cidermakers, importers, orchardists, foodies, farmers and cider enthusiasts around the world. Let's delve into the semantics of cider…or is it hard cider, cidre, sidra or fermented apple juice? The truth is out there in Ciderville and we are going to find it. We toast in celebration of cider; As a libation, a gift from the gods, a taste of terroir, and a hard pressed good time. Ready to quench your thirst? Grab a glass and join this chat! See you in Ciderville!

  1. 489: Natural Cider Production Seminar | CiderCon 2025

    3D AGO

    489: Natural Cider Production Seminar | CiderCon 2025

    Natural cider is often misunderstood as funky, volatile, or flawed. Recorded live at CiderCon 2025, this seminar reframes natural cider as a philosophy of low intervention, balance, and intentional care, not a free pass for faults. Moderator Haritz is joined by Richard of Brooklyn Cider House and Jasper Smith of Son of Man (Oregon) to explore how Basque cider traditions influence modern natural cider production in the U.S. The panel dives into fermentation choices, malolactic fermentation, volatile acidity, sensory evaluation, and why great natural cider is defined by quality, not dogma. This conversation also examines how natural cider is judged in Spain, what tasting panels consider true faults, and why these ciders are designed first and foremost to be enjoyed with food. Ciders featured: Zapiain (Basque Country), Son of Man (Oregon), and Solstice (Brooklyn Cider House) Episode 489 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Basque Cider 00:25 Meet the Host: Ria Windcaller 00:42 The Magic of Sidra Natural 01:41 Exploring Natural Cider Production 02:32 Cider FOMO and CiderCon 03:34 Cider Chat Milestones and YouTube Channel 05:21 Thanking the Cider Chat Patrons 08:44 Featured Presentation: Natural Cider Panel 09:23 Defining Natural Cider 11:32 Production Techniques and Philosophies 27:05 Harvest Strategies and Apple Varieties 36:21 Exploring the Price Range of Ciders 37:01 The Science Behind Well-Integrated Volatile Acidity 38:31 The Role of Malolactic Fermentation in Cider 39:55 Tasting Panels and Quality Control in Basque Cider 42:44 Cider Pairing with Food: A Gastronomic Experience 44:31 The Cultural Significance of Cider in Spain 51:31 The Importance of Apple Varieties in Cider Making 55:43 Challenges and Rewards of Natural Cider Production 01:01:48 Final Thoughts and Future of Cider 01:06:55 Conclusion and Farewell Find the full show notes for this episode at CiderChat.com Episode 489: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/489-natural-cider-production/ Listen to Episode 489 of Cider Chat® wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville. Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture. 💛 If you love what you're hearing, please consider supporting Cider Chat. Your support helps keep the podcast on the air and makes it possible to share more conversations like this one.

    1h 11m
  2. 488: Vintage Cider Label Lawsuit

    JAN 28

    488: Vintage Cider Label Lawsuit

    A pending lawsuit spearheaded by Ron Extract of Garden Path Fermentation could change how cider makers label harvest year and "vintage" on cider over 7% ABV. Ron explains why the current TTB rules block truthful harvest-year labeling, how this impacts both producers and consumers, and what success would look like for the cider community. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:43 Cider Labeling Controversy 02:46 News and Events in the Cider World 04:56 Upcoming Cider Tours 09:16 Featured Presentation: Ron Extract on Cider Labeling Lawsuit 42:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Find the full show notes to this episode at CiderChat.com Episode 488 https://ciderchat.com/podcast/488-vintage-cider-label-lawsuit/ Listen to Episode 488 of Cider Chat® wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville. 📺 Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture. 💛 If you love what you're hearing, please consider supporting Cider Chat Your support helps keep the podcast on the air and makes it possible to share more interviews and deep-dive conversations like this one.

    43 min
  3. 487: Further Tales of Chocolate Pears

    JAN 21

    487: Further Tales of Chocolate Pears

    In This Episode, We Cover Why Sorbus domestica is often nicknamed "the chocolate pear" (and why that name actually helps people get it) What bletting means, and why sorbs can be delicious before they turn fully brown (depending on the fruit) The "custard stage" vs. fully bletted "medlar-like" stage (and how this relates to cider pressing windows) Ben's sorb travel finds across: Croatia (including fruit for sale at the market + trees growing in yards) Moravia (Czech Republic) — including the Sorbus museum and harvest festival France (sorb hunting with Arnold and tasting cormé/cormé-style ferments) Somerset, UK (a surprise roadside discovery!) Growth habits that can make Sorbus domestica look like an oak Why sorbs may matter in a changing climate: deep root systems drought resistance long lifespan later bloom time (less frost risk) Seed-grown vs grafted sorbs — and why Ben prefers genetic diversity (for now) The surprising reality: sorbs have already been distributed widely in the U.S. through seedlings What's being made with sorbs in Europe: brandy co-ferments with grapes wine experiments Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to Sorbus Domestica 00:18 Meet the Podcast Host: Ria Windcaller 00:52 Exploring Sorbus Domestica: History and Uses 01:25 Cider Chat Episodes Featuring Sorbus Domestica 02:39 Sorbus Domestica in France and the US 04:05 Cider News and Upcoming Events 07:53 Interview with Ben Kunesh: Chocolate Pears 08:33 The Unique Characteristics of Sorbus Domestica 17:25 Sorbus Domestica Around the World 21:03 The Versatility and Adaptability of Sorbus Domestica 24:20 The Future of Sorbus Domestica in Orchards 25:49 Sorbus Domestica: A Historical Perspective 27:34 Ben's Travels and Discoveries 34:25 Exploring Sorbus Domestica Variations 35:30 Propagation Techniques and Genetic Diversity 37:29 Historical Context and Distribution 39:50 Nursery and Distribution Efforts 41:09 European Adventures and Discoveries 45:30 Tasting Sorbus Domestica Products 54:23 Future Prospects and Cultivation Tips 01:00:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🎧 Listen to Episode 487 of Cider Chat® wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville. 📺 Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture. 💛 If you love what you're hearing, please consider supporting Cider Chat Your support helps keep the podcast on the air and makes it possible to share more interviews and deep-dive conversations like this one.

    1h 4m
  4. 486: Apples, Cider, and Community | 450 Years of Cider Culture in Chile

    JAN 14

    486: Apples, Cider, and Community | 450 Years of Cider Culture in Chile

    Recorded live at CiderCon, this episode brings listeners into a rare, in-depth conversation about Chile's living cider tradition—one shaped by more than 450 years of apple fermentation, deep regional biodiversity, and community-based agriculture. Moderated by Eli Shanks, this panel features cider makers, cooperative leaders, and academics from southern Chile who explore how apples arrived, adapted, and endured across Araucanía, Los Ríos, and the Chiloé archipelago. Rather than a "new" cider movement, Chile offers something far rarer: a cider culture that never disappeared. At the heart of the discussion is Chicha—the traditional name for fermented apple beverages in Chile—and the cultural weight that language carries. Panelists unpack how Chicha and cider share the same roots, why heritage orchards matter, and what's at stake as aging farmers, development pressure, and climate change threaten seed-grown apple diversity. Listeners will also hear about: Heritage apple orchards over 100 years old, many grown from seed The role of women as primary stewards of orchards and biodiversity Native fermentation vessels made from Raulí and other Chilean woods Cooperative cider making on the island of Chiloé The challenges of valuing cider beyond "cheap, rural" perceptions The future of Chilean cider on the global stage, including education, competitions, and potential export This episode offers an essential perspective for anyone interested in cider as culture—not trend—and in how place, people, and history shape what ends up in the glass. Panelists & Contributors Eli Shanks – Co-founder, Punta de Fierro Fine Cider; Head Cider Maker, Western Cider Gicella – President, Cooperative Chilwe (Chiloé) René Galindo – Third-generation cider maker, Araucanía Carlos Flores – Co-founder, Punta de Fierro Fine Cider; Orchardist, Valdivia Fabián Lara – Cider & beer consultant; INDAP (Chilean Ministry of Agriculture) José Antonio Aldea – Professor and fermentation educator Key Themes Chilean cider and Chicha traditions Heritage apple orchards and seed-grown ecotypes Women's roles in orchard preservation Cooperative models and island agriculture Native materials and spontaneous fermentation Preserving cider culture in a changing landscape Timestamps ⏱️ Detailed timestamps are listed above to help you jump to specific topics, speakers, and cider discussions. 00:00 Introduction to Chicha and Cider 00:26 News Out and About  Ciderville  00:43 Episode Overview: Chilean Cider Panel 03:30 Upcoming Events and Announcements 07:42 Introduction to the Chilean Panel 10:44 Chilean Cider Regions and History 16:11 Traditional Cider Making in Chile 18:11 Modern Chilean Cider and Future Prospects 20:16 Cider Tasting and Panel Discussion 29:32 Consumer Perception of Cider in Chile 30:07 Challenges and Efforts in Differentiation 30:34 Traditional and New World Ciders 31:13 Exciting Apple Varieties and Characteristics 32:19 Naming and Regional Varieties 35:40 Incorporating Local Fruits into Cider 38:09 Historical Context and Apple Lineages 41:47 Fire Blight and Disease Resistance 42:57 Modern vs. Traditional Cider Making 44:15 Collaborations with Winemakers 47:12 Preserving Heritage Apple Orchards 52:10 Forming a Cooperative in Chiloé 54:53 Market Development and Sales Strategies 57:03 Generational Gaps and Preservation Efforts 59:08 Future Goals and International Connections Support Cider Chat® If you value independent, long-form conversations that preserve cider history and amplify global voices, consider supporting Cider Chat® on Patreon. Your support helps keep these stories accessible and the podcast on the air.

    1h 1m
  5. 485: Cider as a Catalyst for Chile's Edible Forest

    JAN 7

    485: Cider as a Catalyst for Chile's Edible Forest

    Carlos Flores is an architect, landscape designer, and co-founder of Punta de Fierro Fine Cider. At the 2025 CiderCon in Chicago he presented Carlos presented "Developing An Experimental Edible Forest in a Heritage Apple Orchard." - this episode features his full presentaiton and you will also find his audio synced with all the power point slides at the Cider Chat YouTube Channel. Find full shownotes to this episode at https://ciderchat.com/podcast/485-chile-edible-forest-cider/ 00:00 Intro to Cider Chat - news 00:49 Carlos Flores and the Edible Forest 01:43 The Rich History of Chilean Cider 04:03 Upcoming Cider Events and Tours 08:41 Carlos Flores' Journey and Vision 18:40 Creating the Edible Forest 30:59 Bees and Flowers 31:08 Meteorological Station and Climate Change 32:24 Community Involvement and Workshops 33:37 Greenhouse and New Trees 34:12 Summer School and Neighbor's Orchard 36:17 Building a Cider House 37:47 Biofilter and Water Management 39:32 Community Impact and Economic Development 41:34 Pruning and Tree Management 43:14 Future Plans and Experiments 50:22 Funding and Government Grants 55:30 Final Thoughts and Conclusion Contact info for Carlos of Punta de Fierro Cider Website: https://puntadefierro.cl Listen to Episode 421: Explore the Rich History of Chilean Cider w/Punta de Fierro Mentions in this Cider Chat 393: How to Wassail & Drink Hail Totally Cider Tours CiderCon2026 Support Cider Chat via our Patreon Page!

    57 min
  6. 484: Rethinking American Cider History with Patrick McCauley

    12/31/2025

    484: Rethinking American Cider History with Patrick McCauley

    Meet Patrick McCauley, a Michigan-based cider maker and researcher, who is questioning some of the most common myths about American cider history. What Patrick uncovers is a far more regional, farm-based, and resilient cider story than the usual "cider died because of Prohibition" narrative.   00:00 Introduction to Cider and Prohibtion 00:23 Meet the Host and Guest 01:56 Listener Support and Community 04:51 Cider Salon Hungary, Uk & French Cider Tour 08:03 Featured Conversation with Patrick McCauley 10:25 Cider Production and Historical Insights 14:48 Regional Cider Production in the US 30:36 Impact of Prohibition and Industrialization 37:30 Challenges in Cider Production 38:33 Cider Culture and Consumer Perception 39:22 Historical Context and Regional Differences 42:08 Modern Cider Making Techniques 45:14 The Future of Cider 48:05 Historical Research and Discoveries 59:24 Reviving Lost Cider Traditions 01:05:58 Closing Remarks and Gratitude   Contact info for Patrick McCauley Listen to Patrick's Episode 302: Cider Mills of Washtenaw County (1841 to today) Website: https://patrickmccauley.reinhartrealtors.com/ Mentions in this Cider Chat 2026 UK Blossom Time Totally Cider Tour Patron letter - Zach New England Cider Association - @newenglandciders Cider Salon Hungary Cider Chat Patreon - join today!

    1h 10m
  7. 483: The Talking Pomme's Grand Winter Party

    12/24/2025

    483: The Talking Pomme's Grand Winter Party

    Enjoy this annual winter tale from Cider Chat Central! In this special holiday episode, Cider Chat invites you to step into the enchanting world of the Talking Pommes. The Talking Pommes Grand Winter Party is more than just a story - it's a celebration of all things pome, community, tradition, and the joy that comes with every glass of cider. The cider house hums with anticipation as Ria, Perry Pear, Mr. Quince, and the Medlars prepare the night before their annual pressing. But as every year before there is always magic in the air for Ciderville. With the Talking Pommes truly anything can happen and so it does! With snow blanketed orchards, and just the right amount of "Believe" a sleigh pulled by apples glides through the starry sky. Raise a glass and join us on this festive adventure—because in Ciderville, the magic is always just a sip away. Meet the Stars of the Cider House This holiday episode of Cider Chat brings together some of Ciderville's most delightful characters: Apple: The vibrant leader with a twinkle in their eye. The Medlars: Sweet, quirky, and always ready with a witty remark. Mr. Quince: The taskmaster who wants to be a comic Perry Pear: Full of charm and flair, a natural performer. A Wide Assortment of Pommes: From Dabinett to Kingston Black, they bring their unique personalities to the mix. The Gift of Holiday Cider Magic This story is for anyone who cherishes the magic of the season. As Apple says, "Every glass of cider holds a story, and this one's for you." From Cider Chat to all of Ciderville, we hope this episode brings joy to your holiday season. Raise a glass, gather 'round, and join the Talking Pommes and Ria in Ciderville!

    14 min
  8. 482: FLX Cider & Cheese Pairing with Cheesemonger Rachel Freier

    12/17/2025

    482: FLX Cider & Cheese Pairing with Cheesemonger Rachel Freier

    At the New York Cider Fest in November, there were 2 Cider and Cheese sessions. Cider Chat Emcee Ria Windcaller attended one featuring ciders from 4 different makers. This cider and cheese pairing was led by Rachel Freier, a cheesemonger who is based in the Finger Lakes. She brought deep knowledge, humor, and a whole lot of heart as we tasted our way through four ciders and three cheeses. 00:00 Introduction to New York City Cider Fest 01:55 Networking at the Cider Fest 02:50 Exploring the Finger Lakes Cider Scene 04:36 Upcoming Cider Tours and Events 09:32 Cider Making Tips and Anecdotes 13:46 Featured Presentation: Cider and Cheese Pairing 23:31 Sterilizing Juice and Grape Skins 23:41 Exploring Apple Varieties: Northern Spy and Crab Apples 24:06 Harvesting Feral Fruit and Gnarly Branch Rose 24:51 Pairing Cider with Cheese 25:31 The Finger Lakes Cider Scene 26:09 Cider and Goat Cheese Pairings 27:19 Kingston Black: The King of Apples 30:16 The Art of Blending Ciders 31:09 Sustainable Cheese Making 33:43 Chisel Jersey Cider and Cheese Pairing 36:19 Upcoming Cider Chat Episodes 37:20 Celebrating the Holidays with Cider 39:23 Musical Outro: Strange Apples Contact Info for the Ciders and Rachel Rachel Freier, (Cheesemonger): Eve's Cidery - Maker Ezra Idiot Brother Cider - Maker Robert Grisamore/ Cider Works - Maker Simon South Hill Cider - Maker Steve Mentions in this Cider Chat Episode 198: Becoming a Pomologist w/ Dr. Peck Totally Cider Tours UK tour feature in CAMARA's Pint West Patron Letter - Sune 2026 Blossom Time Totally Cider Tour The Talking Pommes' Grand Winter Party Annual Special Episode

    42 min
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4.8
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About

Interviewing cidermakers, importers, orchardists, foodies, farmers and cider enthusiasts around the world. Let's delve into the semantics of cider…or is it hard cider, cidre, sidra or fermented apple juice? The truth is out there in Ciderville and we are going to find it. We toast in celebration of cider; As a libation, a gift from the gods, a taste of terroir, and a hard pressed good time. Ready to quench your thirst? Grab a glass and join this chat! See you in Ciderville!

Information

  • Creator
    Ria Windcaller: Award-winning Cidermaker, Podcaster | Craft Beer Columnist
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    492
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Cider Chat 2014- 2025
  • Show Website
    Cider Chat

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