Often caught in the crossfire between beer and wine, how should cider be merchandised? Cider expert Jane Peyton finds out What is cider? It’s an easy question to ask but not an easy one to answer. The Campaign for Real Ale, which also lobbies for cider and perry, defines it as a fermented drink from the whole juice of freshly pressed…

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has deferred extended producer responsibility (EPR) for packaging fees until October 2025. In an update to the scheme, posted today, Defra said there has been a decision to defer fees for one year. However, producers will still need to record packaging data. The update said that while fees were delayed, “other timescales have not changed – producers…

Cava producer Codorníu has lined up a new advertising campaign in the UK, as it looks to become the “market-leading cava by 2025”. The producer, which exported five million bottles to the UK in 2022, said the campaign will feature across various London tube stations, taxis, and buses. Outside of London, activity will take place in Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham and Manchester. Codorníu said the advertising…

The results of the International Cider Challenge (ICC) have been announced, with NeRø Issider being crowned Supreme Champion in the tasting competition. This marks the second year running that a Norwegian producer has won this accolade.  ICC chairman James Finch described the supreme champion as “a well-balanced, beautiful drink with a wonderful expression of the fruit”.  A further five ciders were awarded taste…

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has urged the government to provide the drinks industry with more information on the new Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme as businesses lack “clear guidance”.  According to a new report by the National Audit Office (NAO) called The government’s resources and waste reforms for England,  government officials have failed to clarify how the EPR scheme will…

London-based sake producer Kanpai is set to open a new brewery and taproom on Druid Street in Bermondsey. Kanpai, which is thought to be the UK’s first sake producer, will be relocating from its current premises in Peckham, meaning its new brewery will be part of the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile. The new brewery and bar will be set up in a…

In celebration of English wine week (June 17 – 25), Aldi has announced two upcoming vineyard tours and tasting experiences in partnership with Lyme Bay Winery – the producer of Aldi’s Bowler & Brolly English sparkling wine. Taking place on September 9 & 10 in Chelmsford, Essex, the tour will include an Aldi English wine tasting led by Sam Caporn MW. Attendees will…