Description
The Hessischer Apfelwein PGI is a cider obtained from the fermentation of a juice from apples, which are mostly cultivated on meadows and have a minimum acidity of 6 gr/l.
Production Area
The production area of Hessischer Apfelwein PGI covers the entire Federal State of Hesse.
Production Method
The apples used to produce Hessischer Apfelwein PGI belong to more than 2000 varieties which are located traditionally in the Hesse Province. The juice extracted can come from different varieties in a variable amount. The sorbole-Frucht, which avoids turbidity, can be added to the apple juice depending on needs. However, the majority of cider is obtained exclusively from apples. The fruits can be harvested by beating the branches and then picking them up from the ground. In fact, small imperfections are allowed for pressing (while stains are forbidden).
Appearance and Flavour
Hessischer Apfelwein PGI has a minimum alcohol content of 5% of the volume. The colour is gold yellow, it is lightly sparkling and the flavour tends to sourish tones.
History
Hessischer Apfelwein PGI boasts very ancient origins. Indeed, apple cider was already mentioned in the Capitolare de Villis, a book of regulations and laws thanks to which Charlemagne was able to organise the daily life and work in his properties in the best way. After a short period when the wine became the protagonist - in terms of production and use - since the 16th century in the Frankfurt area the cider production has returned to prevail and, in 1779, a cellar, which had become the most ancient of the region, was opened. Since then the fame and importance of this product have made it the identification symbol of Hesse. The Süßer-Feste and the "Hessische Apfelwein- und Obstwiesenroute", the route of cider and apple orchards are some examples of the will of cellars and authorities to keep alive the link between the region and its cider.
Gastronomy
Hessischer Apfelwein PGI has to be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from heat sources and direct light. It is consumed fresh and has to be served in the right way. In fact, the jug, which is traditionally called Bembel, and the typical glass with rhomboidal sides, called Gerippt, are used. It is ideal with different dishes from the regional cuisine such as pork chops with sauerkrauts or the particular marinated cheese with vinegar and onions.
Marketing
The product is sold as Hessischer Apfelwein PGI. It is sold in glass bottles.
Distinctive Features
Hessischer Apfelwein PGI owes its unique taste to the different varieties of apples used, but with an acidity which has not to be lower than 6gr/l.
