About Real Cider & Perry

Cider has never been a more popular drink. Recent polls suggest that cider is now the most popular drink in the UK - more so that beer or wine. But what do 'they' mean by cider? Certainly there has been an increase in the popularity of cider; the peaktime advertising and promotion of brands such as Magners and Bulmers have meant that it is suddenly 'cool' to drink cider. But beware! Just as there is a difference between gassy cask beers and real ales, so there is also a vast difference between those fizzy ciders best served 'over ice' and real ciders and perries.

This section of the website will attempt to explain all aspects of real cider and perry:

• What Is Real Cider & Perry - Definitions of real cider, perry, scrumpy and apple wine
• Cider & Apples Through the Ages - Gillian Grafton's History of Apple Growing and Cider Making in the UK
• Cider Apple Varieties - a discussion of the varieties of apples which are or have been used for the production of cider.
• Pears and Perry Through The Ages - Gillian Grafton's History of Pear Growing and Perry Making in the UK
• Perry Pear Varieties - a discussion of the varieties of pears which are or have been used for the production of perry.
• Cider & Perry Books - Some recommended further reading about Cider & Perry
• Cider & Perry Links - A list of cider-related websites

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