In 2016, we released our first dry hopped cider and, after a pause of ten years, we have just launched a new one. We thought you might like to know more about our latest addition and why we chose to create it now.
The History
Wandering Aengus, a craft cidermaker in Salem, Oregon, is credited with being the first to create a dry hopped cider for public consumption in 2010. It is pretty unlikely that this was the first time that a cidermaker had tried adding hops to their apple nectar though. We are a creative, flavour-curious bunch and we have been experimenting with ciders since the Romans were in charge. Hops probably arrived in the UK in the late fifteenth century so there is every chance that one of our predecessors has tested out this intriguing combination previously, but its widespread availability really has quite a short history.
The Recipe
Dry hopped cider is created by adding carefully selected hops during the cidermaking process. The type of hops, timing of addition, length of ageing and fermentation and the characteristics of the cider apples will all impact on the final drink. When done well, dry hopping adds flavours and aromas that appeal to both cider and beer drinkers alike and possibly to those who aren’t massive fans of either! The aim is to balance the apple sweetness with the hoppy aromatics to create the best of both worlds.
Introducing Pip Hop
We like to think that we have done just that with our brand new Pip Hop. It is a vibrant, fruity relaunch of our first version that we first crafted a decade ago. We think that it perfectly bridges the gap between craft cider and beer. It boasts an inviting aroma of fresh hops and this leads into mouthfuls of juicy, authentic cider apple flavours that culminate in a satisfyingly crisp, hoppy finish. Crafted from a bittersweet base cider, Pip Hop is carefully steeped with modern British Jester hops and Nelson Sauvin hops from New Zealand to create a unique blend. The result is a twist on a traditional cider that is lively, fruity and floral, designed to appeal to both dedicated cider lovers and craft beer enthusiasts.
The Timing
When we launched St Louis in 2016, after a chance meeting and subsequent collaboration between Barny and Dan Kopman of Schlafly Brewery, it was an instant success, winning awards and praise across the board. Since then, there has been a massive period of change at Sandford Orchards as we have grown in size, expanded our range and our reach. Somewhere along the line, our dry hopped cider dropped off our radar but a decade after the first launch, it felt right to bring the dream back to life. There has been recent growth in demand for beers cut with fruit. Pip Hop just approaches it from the other angle. It’s an apple cider cut with hops! By combining our traditional bittersweet cider apples with the bold and juicy notes of Jester and Nelson hops, we’ve created something that feels fresh and unique. We released a small run of kegs that went down really well with drinkers at the London Craft Beer Festival and that confirmed our belief that the time was right for Pip Hop.
Sip a Pip Hop
So, if you like cider or beer, if you like well crafted drinks and you would like to try something new, we think our latest creation is just the craft cider with the hoppy hints for you. You can pick some up from our shop or try it in one of the many bars, in the South West and beyond, where it’s currently on tap. Have a sip or two of Pip Hop then let us know what you think. We would love to hear your thoughts!
