Somerset cider brandy wins protected status
Somerset cider brandy has been given Protected Geographical Identification status by the EU after a trade campaign backed by the Wine & Spirit Trade Association and the UK government.
It means that Somerset cider brandy joins a list of products whose geographical identity is officially safeguarded including Melton Mowbray pork pies, Arbroath smokies and Kentish ale.
Agriculture minister James Paice said: “This decision will protect the long-term future of an industry that already contributes more than £4 million to Somerset’s economy, and will preserve the local landscape and way of life.”
Julian Temperley, owner of Somerset Cider Brandy Co, said: “This is great news for the west country economy and a tribute to the quality of the product.
“It will help secure the future of traditional orchards which are such an integral and essential feature of the landscape and heritage.”
