A cidery or a winery is the correct term for a place where cider is made. While some people may mistakenly refer to it as a “brewery,” this term is not accurate because brewing specifically refers to the process of making beer.
The distinction between brewing and cider-making lies in the methods and ingredients used. When brewing beer, the brewer typically boils or cooks barley or wheat grains to convert the starches into sugar. This process is known as mashing. Once the sugar is extracted, it is fermented with yeast to produce alcohol.
In contrast, cider-making involves a different set of processes and ingredients. Cider is made from the pressed juice of apples or sometimes a combination of apples and other fruits. The juice is extracted from the apples and then fermented, usually with the addition of yeast, to convert the natural sugars into alcohol.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit and work in various cideries and breweries. The atmosphere and production methods in these establishments can vary greatly. Cideries often have a more rustic and agricultural feel, with orchards or apple trees surrounding the facility. The focus is on the careful selection and pressing of the apples to extract high-quality juice.
Inside a cidery, you may find a range of equipment such as apple presses, fermentation vessels, and storage barrels or tanks. These are used to handle the different stages of cider production, from pressing the apples to fermenting and aging the juice. Cideries may also have tasting rooms or taprooms where visitors can sample their ciders and learn about the cider-making process.
Interestingly, some wineries also produce cider alongside their wine production. This allows them to diversify their offerings and cater to a broader range of tastes. In such cases, you may find both wine and cider production facilities within the same property.
The correct term for a place where cider is made is a cidery or a winery, not a brewery. While brewing refers to the process of making beer, cider-making involves the pressing and fermentation of apple juice. These establishments typically have a unique atmosphere and may offer tasting experiences for visitors to enjoy the delicious fruits of their labor.