Ben Watson smiling while standing in an apple tree with pruning shears

Ben Watson Remembered: Author, Apple Advocate and Cider Ambassador

Ben Watson, the writer, apple advocate and longtime cider educator whose book Cider, Hard and Sweet helped introduce a generation of Americans to traditional cider and the apples behind it, died Saturday, August 15, 2026, at his home in New Hampshire. He was 64. Watson’s influence stretched well beyond the pages of his books. He … Read more

CiderDay sign - Ria's Making cider workshop

197: Top 5 Picks for Franklin County CiderDays

Top 5 Picks for Franklin County CiderDays Franklin County CiderDays takes place on the first weekend of November every year as it has been for the past 25 years. Yes, this November 1-3, 2019 is the 25th Annual and the number of events taking place across the county are outstanding. Download CiderDays schedule Here are … Read more

059: Cider Books for Holiday Gift Giving w/ Hugh McKellar

Cider Books for Holiday Gift Giving w/ Real Cider Reviews Hugh McKellar of Real Cider Reviews chimes in on cider book recommendations for this holiday season. Hugh calls this chat “The Christmas Book List Podcast” while I am sticking with “Cider Books for Holiday Gift Giving”….cuz in Ciderville we celebrate the holidays all year long … Read more