t Cider Mill has announced the launch of a new range of speciality ciders that celebrate the master cider makers who created them over twenty years ago, Bob Chaplin and Bob Cork.A closely guarded secret for over two decades, the new range is the result of a quest by the pair to produce a craft cider using specially selected fresh pressed apple juice that would surpass all others.
The liquid was disguised under secret batch number ‘417’ and enjoyed by just a handful of Chaplin & Cork’s friends, but word quickly spread just how special these ciders were.
brand manager for Chaplin & Cork’s, Holly Chadwick said:
“This cider was simply too good to keep to ourselves.
“People are looking for brands with an engaging personality and something to believe in and we have a great story to tell here.”
“Ultimately this exciting new range is about quality and innovation, just like its creators, and as such we believe Chaplin & Cork’s will appeal to the more discerning cider drinker that is willing to pay more for speciality brands.
“Consumer demand for speciality ciders is on the increase and particularly those offering a premium proposition.”
The specialist and craft segment boosted cider volume by 18 percent and value by 28 percent last year alone, a trend set to continue as customers trade up their drinks choices.
With consumer confidence at its highest peak for six years, premium products will remain in high demand within the cider sector as more customers seek out new products like Chaplin & Cork’s that can boast of strong heritage.
The new premium speciality range comes in two variants, Somerset Gold (5.2% ABV) a full- bodied medium cider and Somerset Reserve (6.8% ABV) a rich medium dry cider.
A third variant is planned for later in the year.
Chaplin & Cork’s is already listed in Waitrose stores nationally and The Shepton Mallet Cider Mill will continue to drive distribution through key off trade channels throughout the UK, as well as exploring opportunities to gain new distribution of Somerset Gold within targeted on trade outlets.
The range is available in 500ml glass bottle and in 8x500ml case and is now available to off trade stockists.
