442: Bob Cork: 40 Years in Cider | Shepton Mallet, England

Bob Cork’s Cider Career

Bob Cork

• Bob Cork has 40 years of experience in cider making, starting in 1980.
• Initially an apprentice engineer, he transitioned to cider making, thanks to his engineering background.
• He now works as a cider-making consultant, still contributing to the legacy of Showering Cider Mill.

The Evolution of Showering Cider Mill and Babycham

Entrance to Showering Mill

• Showering Cider Mill, made an undeniable mark for a perry called Babycham.
• The mill has evolved over the years, modernizing its equipment while maintaining traditional cider-making techniques.
• During the production of Babycham, horizontal tanks for producing this widely popular drink. At the time they were laid outside and eventually a buidlign was built around the tanks.
• The Shepton Mallet Cider Mill is the second largest mill in the UK and over the years it expanded to include a variety of ciders, while continuing to produce Babycham, the popular Fever brand and today a traditional cider called Showering Triple Vintage.

The Traditional and Modern Blend: The Triple Vintage

Matthew, Daniel, Jonathan Showering and Ria Windcaller

The Triple Vintage cider, created by the Showerings blends three vintages to produce a high-quality product.

Bob Cork in this episode discusses how it is made using bittersweet and bittersharp apples, fermented with a wee bit of natural yeast and then a cultured yeast. The cider is matured to achieve a balanced, high-quality cider. Key to the cider-making process, is low-temperature fermentation and controlled maturation.

Bob Cork’s Advice for Aspiring Cider Makers

• Bob advises aspiring cider makers to approach the craft with passion, as it requires significant investment and a long-term commitment.
  • He emphasizes the importance of a solid business plan and understanding the market’s cyclical nature.
  • Despite the challenges, he believes in the future of cider, with increasing consumer interest in high-quality, craft ciders.

Mention in this Cider Chat

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