Hard Core is a new series from Heritage Radio Network taking a close look at the rebirth of American cider! Over the course of six episodes we’ll break through folksy stereotypes to gain a deeper understanding of where the cider industry began and where it’s headed. Hear from orchardists, cider makers, policy experts and academics to learn about everything from the science of fermentation, to the magic of terroir, and the challenges of breaking into the beverage market.
As extreme weather events become increasingly common, how will apples fare? Will the taste of cider evolve? We return to the labs at Cornell University to get a crash course from our favorite pomologist in apple genetics, biodiversity, and climate change. Find out how studying (and growing) historic apple varieties can change the future ...
North America was home to apples long before Europeans - or cider - reached its shores. Malus fusca, or the Pacific crabapple, is native to the continent and there's a rich history and contemporary culture surrounding the variety to explore. We'll look at how the apple has been and is still used by Indigenous nations and poke holes in the ...
Hard Core is back! The first season of Hard Core came out before the pandemic. While we're still drinking cider, the world is a very different place. That's why we're returning with season two. We can't wait to travel through history and across the U.S. with you.In this episode, we'll start our journey at the root. Before labeling, bottling, ...
For our season finale we're focusing our attention on what the future holds for cider. We'll dive into co-ferments, collaborations, and cider culture abroad. We'll also look to adjacent industries as a model for craft cider and explore how the cider industry can empower its community as it grows. Considering input from leaders across this ...
In this episode we visited our favorite bars, wine shops, and cider festivals to explore the many ways the industry is reaching out to curious drinkers. We spoke with retailers that are expanding their cider selection, looking closely at the language we use to talk about cider, and examined the front and back of labels to understand what's ...
This week on Hard Core, trek through orchards with us to deepen your knowledge of the impact that farming practices, tourism, policy, and collaboration can have on farms and cidermakers. From foraging for abandoned apples and to explore how growers work with their trees, we're looking a many methods of farming.The holiday season is all about ...
In this episode, we're looking at the science behind cider making and apple growing. We start with a chemistry lesson on fermentation and assess how microscopic organisms affect cider's taste. Then we pay a visit to Cornell University to explore the cutting edge of horticulture, where scientists seeking to increase yield and combat climate ...
In this episode, you will be transported to the Finger Lakes region of New York State to hear from many of the makers leading America's cider revival. We'll try to answer the question: Can you taste place? By diving deep into the meaning of terroir, we will work to pinpoint what makes the tastiest apple and how the cider industry can use ...
