Whether you were racking up the steps going from stage to stage in the heart of the action at Glastonbury or watching all the music and drama unfold from the comfort of your living room, there’s something you will have likely spotted in the crowd.
Among the sea of sequins, feathers, cowboy regalia and Uniqlo shoulder bags, the ubiquitous accessory clutched in every festival-goers hand was a pint cup. Sipped to the soundtrack of everyone from Elton John to Jayda G was the sweet nectars of Somerset’s own Brothers Cider.
The drink - and more specifically, the brand - has been a stalwart at Worthy Farm for 28 years, first welcomed on the site by Michael Eavis back in 1995 and has become near synonymous with the festivial itself - not in the least due to the fact that the home of Brothers Drinks Co. in Shepton Mallet is a mere three miles away. How’s that for locally sourced? The antidote to the scorching heat, a gulp will transport you right back to the sun-soaked grass of the UK’s biggest five-day party, whether you’re at a pub garden or picnicking in the park.
There are 14 variations of flavour that range from the Wimbledon-ready Stawberries & Cream to the newer Raspberry Ripple and even an alcohol-free Toffee Apple - the first of its kind. While you can never go wrong with the classic concoction of tangy Festival Apple Brothers Cider that will satisfy the sweet tooth of cider traditionalists, if you’re looking for the VIP experience without the cost of a hospitality wristband, see the Showerings offering.
While not officially named after the hygiene practice that hardcore campers on Pennard Hill or Paines Grounds are longing for, as the name suggests, it has that refreshing, cooling feeling made with nothing but the finest fresh-pressed apples. The brand has a rich history of over 170 years and a long list of awards in that time. The quality comes from the use of late-season Dabinett’s, a premium variety of apple that is brimming with tannins. This makes up the Showerings Triple Vintage, a premium product that more closely resembles wine in both name and aesthetic, redefining a new category of posh cider.
If you’re feeling truly fancy, serve up in a wine glass, pop on repeats of Arctic Monkey’s 2013 performance or Amy Winehouse bringing her beehive to the Pyramid stage in 2007 and kiss those Glastonbury blues goodbye.
Showerings Triple Vintage Cider
From the exterior packaging, you’d be mistaken for thinking that this was a posh mini bottle of wine with its embossed glass and lavish label - and you’d be half right. This may just be the poshest pint you’ll have this summer.
With over 170 years of experience, Showerings’ cider is not the kind of taste that you will automatically associate with a product of this type. It’s about the furthest thing you can get from what you’ll find in a student union.
It is made from Dabinett apples sourced in the label’s award-winning orchard in Somerset - and for those in the know, you’ll be well aware that this is one of the most highly regarded varieties of apples on the market, giving a well-balanced bittersweet taste that is the perfect mix of sugars and tannins and is full-bodied.
Serve up in a wine glass to give the beverage the element of sophistication that it deserves.
Buy now £45.00, Showerings
Brothers Cider Mixed Case - 6 x 500ml
In the cider game since 1658, the Somerset-born label Brothers has some of the most creatively flavoured drinks on the market. You won’t find the likes of simple cider here, instead there’s unique combinations such as Marshmallow, Strawberries & Cream, and of course the most well known, toffee apple -made from a blend of cider, cream soda and toffee.
These all-rounder ciders have a smooth taste with a rich creamy finish that are heavenly for those with a sweet tooth. As the days get chillier, try heating them up for a warming evening tipple. All flavours are gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Buy now £22.21, Amazon
