From Orchard to Can: The Journey of Cider & Ginger Beer
Ever cracked open a cold cider or ginger beer and wondered how it’s made? While every brand has its own secrets and special touches, the process typically follows a fascinating journey — one that blends farming, craft, and a hint of mystery. At Wildah, we take pride in sharing the story behind the can while keeping a few trade secrets close to the chest.
Fresh From the Farm
It all begins with nature. Apples are the heart of most ciders, while ginger roots bring the fiery kick to ginger beer. In Australia, growers work hard to cultivate the orchards and fields that provide the base for these drinks. Every season delivers something a little different, and that’s part of the charm — the flavour that reflects the land it came from.
Pressing & Extracting
Once harvested, the fruit and roots are pressed to release their natural juices. This is where the foundation of the flavour comes through — bright, crisp apple juice for cider, and bold, spicy ginger juice for ginger beer. From there, brewers may add unique blends of spices, fruits, or even carefully selected sweeteners. The exact mix? That’s usually where the “secret recipe” begins.
Fermentation & Brewing
The real magic happens during fermentation and brewing:
Cider: Apple juice is fermented with yeast, which transforms the sugars into alcohol. Different strains of yeast, fermentation times, and temperatures can dramatically change the flavour — creating ciders that are sweet, dry, or somewhere in between.
Ginger Beer: Ginger juice is brewed and sometimes fermented, depending on the style. Some recipes go for a light fizz with natural spice, while others lean into a stronger kick. Brewers often guard their exact methods — it’s where tradition and innovation collide.
Finishing Touches
After fermentation, the liquid is clarified, filtered, and carbonated before being packaged for sale. Some producers keep it simple and pure; others add subtle flavourings or secret blends that give their drinks a signature taste. This is often the part of the process shrouded in mystery — the closely held techniques that set one brand apart from another.
From Brew to Can
Finally, the finished cider or ginger beer is canned or bottled, sealed to lock in freshness and fizz. Every sip reflects not only the orchard and farm it came from but also the skill and creativity of the brewers behind it.
Why It Matters
Behind every drink is a story of farming, craft, and often generations of know-how. While no two ciders or ginger beers are ever exactly alike, the process connects them all — starting in the orchard or ginger field and ending in your hand. At Wildah, we’re proud to be part of that tradition, celebrating Australian ingredients while adding our own little twist.
