Apple cider vinegar seems to be having a moment. People on social media report drinking it to lose weight and improve their health – although not everyone agrees about its purported benefits.

But what about the less acidic, tastier, alcoholic version of apple juice? Cider too has become fashionable again in recent years, thanks mostly to expensive marketing campaigns and extensive PR.

Yet there is a slower, softer side to cider making and drinking, which is worth seeking out – not just for the taste, but for its social and environmental impact.

Read the full article here – https://theconversation.com/craft-cider-is-surprisingly-good-for-the-environment-232514

The Orchard Projects Project Manager Lewis McNeill recently shared his years of experience about setting up community orchards.

Lewis’ workshop was part of a series of presentations about orchards, which can all be found online.

Celebrate the season

It’s hard to not think of blossom when Spring is mentioned, which is why The Orchard Network (which we’re a member of) celebrate it with a dedicated day each year.

Orchard Blossom Day on 28 April is a chance to highlight the importance of local orchards, and share this beautiful season with the wider community. For 2024, poet and author James Crowden has written a series of poems to mark the event.

Take a trip back to the 90s to see the Carhampton wassail – a ceremony to wake apple trees from their winter sleep, scare away evil spirits and ensure a good harvest.

If you are going to a wassail this year, let us know and we will share your pics and videos.

Exciting happening in the Scotland real cider scene this year.

Update from Caledonian Cider Company –

2023 has been another fab year to be a Scottish cider drinker, Slàinte Mhath

Newcomers are @hebrideancider all the way up there on Lewis, Outer Hebrides.

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Thousands of thirsty apple lovers headed to Stanmer Park last sunday for the annual apple day hosted by Brighton Permaculture Trust. It was great fun for all ages, where you could press apples for juice, and even buy apple crumble made with local apples.

If you can find your nearest apple day, even better take along some apples that you can donate and prevent food waste.