Cider: Don't Call it a Comeback!

Hard cider is not just for pilgrims anymore.

Originally brought over by the pilgrims, much cider tradition was lost during prohibition, but in the last 10 or so years its being revitalized and becoming a burgeoning market, particularly for Autumn. Sure, hard cider is only a small part of the overall alcoholic beverage market, but its a rapidly growing niche. According to SymphonyIRI data, hard cider sales at supermarkets and other stores totaled about $71.5 million for the 52 weeks ending Aug. 5. This is more than an 50% increase over the same time last year. Brands are taking notice, with ciders now out from Anheuser-Busch (Mich Ultra Cider) and Boston Beer Co. (Angry Orchard Cider). 

Cider also is appealing to young drinkers because it avoided the extra tax introduced in 2010 because its a fruit-based drink. Millennial drinkers are also said to be the most adventurous with their selections from wine to beer, so cider's boom is likely to resonate well with them. I know I'll be having one this fall!