441: Wilding Cider and the Rural Method | Somerset, UK

Cider Chat

Wilding Cider, founded by Sam and Beccy Leach in 2019, uses Regenerative farming practices and a “rural method” to cider making. Based in Somerset the culinary skills of Sam blend with Beccy’s Sommelier palate. Their dedication to traditional orchards and natural fermentations has led to the creation of their standout orchard based ciders and perrys. This process sets Wilding apart, showcasing a commitment to purity, sustainability, and the land.

Beccy and Same Leach The Orchard at Wilding

• Size & Scope: 7.5 acres at the home orchard and additional rented orchards.
• Varieties: Kingston Black, Stoke Red, Porter’s Perfection, and so many more.
• Regenerative Practices

Sam in the home orchard

The orchards provide the perfect environment for Wilding’s cider-making, ensuring low-intervention fermentations that align with the Rural Method philosophy.

What is the Rural Method of Cider Making

Sam credits Skyborry cider in Wales for coining the phrase “rural Method”. He explains in this chat that at Wilding Cider Rural Method is an energy-efficient, traditional approach to crafting naturally sweet ciders. It utilizes:

• Cold Winter Fermentations: Utilizing natural temperatures to slow fermentation.
• Low Nitrogen Content: Achieved by using unfertilized orchards for balanced fermentations.
• Minimal Intervention: Avoiding filtration, sulfites, or pasteurization.

This method produces clean, complex ciders that capture the essence of Somerset orchards.

Signature Wilding Ciders and Perry

Wilding Cider showcases the Rural Method through their unique blends and single varietals:

• Symphony: A bittersweet blend.
• Comics: Multi-orchard cider built on Browns and Yarlington.
• Single Varietals: Stoke Red and Kingston Black.
• Perry Cider: Carefully macerated to achieve depth and balance.

These ciders are celebrated for their balance of tannins, acidity, and natural sweetness, hallmarks of the Rural Method.

Contact and how to find Wilding Cider

• Website: http://wildingcider.com
• Open Days: Second Saturday of the month, April through September.
• UK: Independent shops and restaurants.
• International: Belgium, Japan, and limited availability in the U.S.

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• CiderCon2025 Promo Code – Once you get to the registration form, towards the end of the first page you’ll reach a section in the form that says “additional registration information” and there is a question: If you have a coupon, please enter code here (case-sensitive): CiderChat
• Totally Cider Tour to the UK – send an email to [e-mail] to get on the wait list for this 2025 tour taking place August 25-31, 2025