Bob Cork’s Cider Career
- 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
- 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
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
- CiderCon2025 Promo Code – Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
- Totally Cider Tour to the UK – send an email to info@ciderchat.com to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025
- Wassail episode: episode 393: How to Wassail and Drink Hail
