North Wales Loses a Craft Cider Icon
Shock and disappointment are rolling through North Wales this week after the area’s best-known craft cider producer announced a shutdown. For years, this small but mighty operation stood out at local markets, country fairs, and festivals, pouring pints made from apples picked just down the road. With a focus on old-school techniques and homegrown fruit, the business built a loyal following in the region's pubs and farm shops. Now, with a heartfelt message to supporters, the company has confirmed the decision to call time on its cider-making journey.
While the official notice stopped short of spelling out exact reasons, it’s clear that keeping a traditional food and drink business going has become an uphill battle. The founder described recent times as "challenging," hinting at the pressures facing small producers everywhere—from rising costs, tough competition, to shifting market demands. Employees learned about the closure in advance, and the company reportedly went the extra mile to help them plan for what's next.
Community Reaction and Fond Memories
Cider fans aren’t hiding their disappointment. All over social media, locals are posting stories about their first taste, visits to the cider press, and the company’s stall at village celebrations. Some pubs and small shops even rushed to stock up on the last few batches, hoping to give regulars one more sip of their favourite blend. One pub landlord called it "the end of an era for local drinkers." Solidarity has come in from nearby businesses too, who know just how hard it can be to keep pace in a tough environment.
For regular customers, the brand wasn’t just about the drink. It symbolized local pride and a hands-on approach you can’t get from supermarket ciders. By using only local apples and traditional pressing methods, the team kept things authentic. Over the years, they racked up awards at food events and drew praise from regional foodies. Their stall was a fixture at nearly every festival from Bangor to Wrexham, bringing together cider lovers and curious newcomers alike.
- The business encouraged fans to look for remaining bottles with local stockists.
- No new ventures or asset sales have been announced, so the future for the brand’s equipment and orchards remains unknown.
If you spot bottles on shelves, now might be the right time to grab one. For North Wales’ craft drink scene, the loss rings out as a warning about the pressures facing even the most well-loved local producers.
Write a comment