Why is craft cider good for you?

Estonian craft cider – what is it?

The history of Estonian craft cider and cider-making is quite fascinating. By the beginning of 2015, when we finally mustered the courage and made the definitive decision to start producing Estonian cider, it was clear that we wouldn’t be the first. Rumors were circulating that Jaanihanso was already close to creating some kind of factory-style operation, and reportedly, the first bottles were already waiting to hit the shelves. Well, what could we do… We got in touch with Alvar and visited Jaanihanso in Pärnumaa. We exchanged lessons on cider-making, listened to his story, picked up some of the best ingredients, and drove back to Tallinn with a clear understanding: we were soon going to become cider makers in Estonia!

Craft cider is Estonia’s pride.

The juice needed for craft cider can only be made in Estonia once a year—when the local red-cheeked apples are ripe in late autumn.

The best cider apples, however, are actually small, tart, stubborn little fellows that aren’t suitable for eating. Luckily, by early November, plenty of these apples can be found scattered under trees across Estonia.

MULL° ciders are free from chemicals and contain only minimal residual sugar. Today, they come in both smaller bottles and elegant champagne-style bottles.

Craft Ciders in Estonia

More and more people now hear the word “cider” and think of MULL°, Jaanihanso, or some cool local estate crafting their own quality home-made cider.

Increasingly, people are realizing that 100% apple juice, naturally fermented and nearly sugar-free (and, by the way, delicious) is not only sensible but genuinely awesome in moderation.

More and more, instead of grabbing imported prosecco or cava from the store, folks are reaching for Estonian “prosecco.” And what’s really great is that young people tend to prefer alcohol-free cider over alcoholic versions.

Why is craft cider good for you?

The word “cider” is used only for beverages fermented from apple juice. So, a classic cider is an alcoholic drink made from apples, specifically apple juice.

The taste of craft cider depends mostly on the apples. In Estonia, craft cider is made mainly from eating apples. In Spain, France, and the UK, however, cider is made from special cider apples that are not suitable for eating. In our climate, there is little sun, so the apples tend to be tart with thin skins, making the cider pale yellow in color, light, and fresh in taste.

We usually harvest cider apples only from old, abandoned collective farm orchards, where the only fertilizer for the trees is the lovely cow manure scattered beneath them.

Nothing is added to our cider except 100% apple juice. That said, a warm warning: alcohol can be harmful to your health. We recommend drinking little, but drinking well, with quality and benefit in mind.

Who hasn’t heard the famous English saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”? Here are nine points about the benefits of apples:

Apple is good for:

1. The heart.
Apples don’t contain a huge amount of digestive fiber, but the fiber they do have forms a beneficial combination for health. This helps regulate blood lipids (fats), lowering the risk of heart disease and supporting overall cardiovascular health.

2. Muscles and skin.
Apples contain almost all essential nutrients, including various minerals and vitamins. They are rich in potassium, which is vital for muscle function. Potassium helps regulate water in tissues, keeps blood pressure in check, supports the elimination of excess toxins, and contributes to healthy, glowing skin.

3. Iodine from apple seeds.
When apples are pressed for juice, crushed seeds release their nutrients into the juice. Apple seeds contain beneficial iodine. You might remember parents encouraging you to eat those bitter seeds—turns out, there’s a good reason!

4. Better sleep.
For sleep problems, eating one unpeeled apple in the evening can help. Apples promote better sleep by keeping blood sugar levels stable overnight. They also help maintain healthy blood pressure while you rest.

A Gourmet’s Delight VOODOO

VOODOO cider is a special drink in an elegant, festive champagne bottle. It’s not a drink you sip lightly, but it’s an undisputed favorite among gourmets.

We source authentic Jamaican rum barrels, previously used to age strong rum. Then we let slightly timid Estonian cider age in these rum barrels for 3–4 months, and voila – Voodoo is born.

A strong Estonian cider with a subtle note of genuine Jamaican rum. Made from pure Estonian apples harvested in 2019. Rumor has it that Voodoo cures all ailments and diseases, and is timeless and full of magic.