Show Notes
Well, it's another Albertless episode, but that doesn't hold Justin and Adam back from interviewing the once and future Cider Critic James Finch of Chapel Sider and Cider Review fame! They discuss Chapel Sider's origin and future, James' love of orchards, and the vicissitudes of cider writing and advocacy, along with a bit of a retrospective on Cider Review and how it came about. Not to mention the legendary Fine Cider Fridays 👀 What's next on the radar for James? Will Justin keep asking questions he asked ten minutes ago? Will Adam survive the brutal summer heat of Ireland? And, most importantly, will the guys avoid the Wrath of Albert by managing to wrap in less than an hour?! Find out at CiderVoice.com, or wherever you pod! Albert is on paternity leave @rosscideradamhwells in spoiling in the heat @cider_reviewJustin is forgetting what he's asked @justinwellsjustin
More from Cider Voice
Recorded in early September 2026, Adam and Albert sit down with the inimitable Lydia Crimp and Tom Tibbits of Artistraw Cider to discuss sweet cider, harvest problems, varieties and rootstocks and much more.
Adam and Justin go into roving reporter mode, doing the Lord's work of completing Rossfest 2027 via a string of on-the-ground recordings. Along the way they'll reminisce about favourite back-vintage Rossfests, taste the 2027 new releases, catch up with other punters, watch the dog show, pair cider with crisps, drink American ciders, buy some ceramics, engage in longsword fights and do their best to clean the barn out of cider at the maker's share and bottle sales. All without Albert cottoning on. Joined by a record number of pod guests (almost as many as we have listeners) join the Cousins Wells on their journey through the best few days in the cider calendar.
The whole gang review all the communication received since we resumed publishing in 2026. We talk about the ciders that stood out this year, the value (if any) of American 'cider' varieties, the consequence of the hottest summer on record to British cidermaking, and a quick introduction to biochar.
Justin swaps spaceship for canal barge this week as the team sits down with Sam Leach of Somerset’s Wilding Cider. We talk about the move from restaurants to cidermaking, natural wine influence and quality of produce. Then we discuss the orchards and terroirs of Somerset and Wilding’s growing business before diving into all things distillation – from apples to methods to spirit that tastes like mustard. Additional shoutout to Matt of Pealer Mill Cider for the extra eau de vie.
With Justin returned from his latest space mission the team reunites for an epic new episode. We meet special guest star and Ross-on-Wye stalwart, Bassie, to learn about his journey from ordinary gaming man to hardened cider-pusher. Then, prompted by a request from a listener, we dive into all things label - what we want to see on them, how best to present information to consumers and who we think does some of the best labels in the game. We even find time for a game of back label 'just a minute'. Have a listen through the usual channels, and get in touch to let us know what you want us to talk about next. Cider Voice is presented by @rosscider @adamhwells and @justinwellsjustin