Sheffield, a city historically synonymous with craftsmanship and innovation, is once again at the forefront of an expanding trend. This time, it’s not steel, cutlery or even beer but the rise of craft cider that’s capturing the palates of its residents. Well known for its vibrant beer culture and long-standing brewing traditions, Sheffield is now experiencing a notable rise in interest for craft cider, with more locals showing enthusiasm for this emerging market. I talked to Mike Pomranz and Joe Spriggs, Directors at Quality Ferments Limited and owners of The Old Shoe and Alder Bar, respectively, about this growing new scene and what it means for Sheffield and local fare.
Sheffield’s reputation as a city of makers has played a significant role in its enthusiastic embrace of craft cider. While the city has a deep-rooted history with craft beer, cider production has traditionally been more associated with regions like Herefordshire and Somerset. However, the local ethos of quality craftsmanship and artisanal production has paved the way for craft cider to thrive here. When Sheffielders are introduced to craft cider, they recognise a familiar dedication to quality and creativity that resonates with the city’s identity.
Mike, who owns the bar The Old Shoe in Orchard Square, says, “It’s been about connecting the dots for people. When we’ve gotten craft cider in front of Sheffielders, the response has been incredible because these ciders fit an ethos that already exists in this city. It’s just getting past that Green Eggs and Ham moment: Try this, you’ll like it!”
And it’s not just about cider. The love for perry, a pear-based cousin of cider, is growing too. Some of the best “ciders” people have tried are actually perries, and the inclusion of this delightful drink broadens the appeal and variety available to enthusiasts.
The rising demand for craft cider is more than just a passing trend; it reflects broader changes in consumer behaviour and economic circumstances. Bars and pubs are struggling, and the beer industry is facing challenges. However it should be noted that the recent 2024 Beer Report found the brewing scene in Sheffield and the wider South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority area is bucking the national trend for closures despite the challenges of Covid and the cost-of-living crisis.
Amidst economic uncertainties and evolving drinking habits, craft cider offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a drink that looks both forward and backwards, embracing simplicity and tradition with a modern twist. Craft cider fits perfectly into the growing trend of lower-intervention products that emphasise local ingredients and traditional methods. Just like natural wine, sourdough bread, and local honey, craft cider brings a sense of locality and authenticity. For Sheffield, a city constantly seeking post-industrial reinvention, this shift towards natural and locally-produced goods is a positive and necessary evolution.
Stocking craft cider offers numerous benefits for local establishments. Unlike beer, which can spoil relatively quickly, most ciders have a longer shelf life, reducing the risk for pubs and bars. Beyond practical considerations, offering craft cider signals a commitment to quality and independent producers. It shows that the establishment values expanding its customers’ horizons and supports local artisans. “Cidermakers are different than brewers,” explains Pomranz. “When I see these products at a bar or restaurant, I recognise that this place is forward-thinking. I trust them. I trust their selection process across the board.” This support for local artisans fosters a sense of community and shared values among Sheffield’s residents.
Sheffield’s embrace of craft cider is part of a more significant trend towards local, artisanal products. While craft beer has become mainstream, the local aspect of its production is often limited. Ingredients are sourced from all over the world, making the process less connected to the locality. In contrast, craft cider is deeply local. Apples are often grown, pressed, and fermented locally, creating a product that is truly representative of its origin. “I make cider in Sheffield that’s made from 100% Sheffield garden apples,” says Mike. “That’s it. No brewer that I know of in the UK is able to reach that level of localisation.”
The focus on local production encompasses popular local products like sausages made with local meat or foraged ingredients used in restaurants. Craft cider represents the apex of this trend where quality and environmentally conscious food come together. Quality Ferments and Alder Bar are partners with ShefFood, the food partnership for Sheffield. A reminder that we need different perspectives on the food system including what we drink.
For those looking to explore Sheffield’s craft cider offerings, there are plenty of places to visit. The Old Shoe, boasting Sheffield’s only cidery on the premises, offers three dedicated craft cider draft lines and a curated selection of imported and local ciders. Alder Bar, also stocks a wide range of ciders if you’re around Neepsend and Kelham Island. Other stockists include Pipers Sausages, The Dram Shop, Kelham Deli, Joro, and Mitchell’s Wine Merchants.
Sheffield’s increasing love for craft cider reflects the city’s spirit of innovation and quality. Craft cider symbolises Sheffield’s commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and community. Cheers to Sheffield’s evolving palate!
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For more information on ShefFood, please contact ShefFood’s Partnership Coordination Team at [email protected] or visit sheffood.org.uk
