Anticipation runs high among cider producers for this year's harvest of apple wine.

Apple wine producers anticipate a quality harvest for cider this year - Apple wine production is anticipated to be successful in wine cellars this year

In the heart of Hesse, a region traditionally known for its vineyards, there are exciting developments in the world of apple wine and cider. Although the cider tradition is much younger than in places like England or Normandy, it has gained momentum in recent years.

The main apple varieties used for cider production in Frankfurt and its surroundings are often a mix of dessert and table apples. True cider apples are rare but highly sought after. Common varieties include:

Boskoop (Renette): Rich in acid and tannins, a classic cider apple
Bramley (Cooking apple, sour and prolific)
Berlepsch: High in acid and aroma
Idared: High in sorbitol, for acidity and aroma
Gravensteiner: For freshness and fruit aroma
Goldparmäne: Slightly bitter, aromatic
Jakob Lebel: Juicy, a classic cider apple

In addition, local varieties like "Köstlicher aus den Vierlanden", "Roter Eiserapfel" or "Gülderling" are often used. With many old orchards being harvested, the variety spectrum is wide and traditional.

There are increasing efforts to test specialist cider apples from abroad in Hesse, such as English varieties like Dabinett, Foxwhelp or Kingston Black. However, these are still rare and are only planted sporadically.

Key players in the Frankfurt area include local (small-scale) cideries, private cider makers, and projects like Apple Wine Economies, which also produce experimental ciders. Some local farmers' markets also sell regional cider and apple juice.

The main apple varieties in the Frankfurt area are Boskoop, Bramley, Berlepsch, Idared, Gravensteiner, Goldparmäne and old orchard varieties. True English or French cider apples are still the exception, but interest and experimentation are growing.

Tip: Those wanting to learn more should contact local apple and orchard initiatives, cideries or cider projects in Frankfurt and South Hesse – here you will find the most information about current varieties and projects!

Sources: Hessian Apple Wine and Fruit Juice Producers' Associations, regional cideries, orchard initiatives (as of 2023).

Recent rainy weather during the summer has contributed to the growth of apples, and the sunny days in August have aided in their ripening. According to Martin Heil, chairman of the Association of Hessian Apple Wine and Fruit Juice Producers, everything has fallen into place for this year's harvest. Despite modest harvests in the past three years, the Association is urging orchard owners to bring their apples to the cideries, as this year's harvest is expected to be much improved.