More ciders from local fruit

Photo: BC Tree Fruits

One year after BC Tree Fruits launched its first cider, two more varieties are being added to the mix.

The co-operative is launching its new products exactly 12 months after the original release of Broken Ladder.

Michael Daley, the cidery manager, says it was a labour-intensive recipe process.

“The results are two new varieties of cider, Pears and the unique taste of Apples & Hops. These, in addition to Apples will be available in BC Liquor stores and private retail stores mid-April,” he said.

They are made from 100 per cent Okanagan Fruit.

Just like the Broken Ladder apple blend, the two new ciders will have no added sugars or additives. The fruit is grown locally by the BC Tree Fruits co-operative.

The pear cider tastes like biting into a ripe, juicy pear just off the tree, said Shannon Forgues, the cidery promotions manager.

“Hints of honey and melon balance the pear leaving a lingering citrus note on the finish. The smooth and effervescent taste is well balanced with no added flavours.”

Pears contains 4.5 per cent alcohol and Apples & Hops contains 6 per cent alcohol — Apples remains 5.2 per cent alcohol.

“Craft cider continues to be one of the fastest growing categories in the beverage sector,” said Daley. “We are an authentic homegrown producer. Apples and pears are handpicked and crushed right in our own mill, resulting in premium ciders.”

BC Tree Fruits is made up of more than 500 families, representing over 80 per cent of the tree fruits grown in the province.