A cidery located in eastern Newfoundland is taking a unique approach to flavoring its beverages by submerging them underwater. The Newfoundland Cider Company, based in George’s Brook-Milton, introduced a new product line called High Tide in 2024 by placing 24 bottles in the Atlantic Ocean. The founder, Chris Adams, described the concept as a fusion of oceanic and orchard elements, creating a distinct experience.
Upon retrieval, the bottles are encrusted with salt, sand, barnacles, algae, and marine life such as sea stars, adding to the allure of the submerged aging process. Adams emphasized the importance of preserving the sea creatures involved in the process, ensuring their well-being. The remnants of algae and barnacles on the bottles are intentionally left untouched to enhance the authenticity of the High Tide taste.
Using wild apples and yeast, the cidery aimed to elevate their cider production after hearing about wineries aging wine at sea. Adams highlighted the uniqueness of the sea-aged cider, noting the subtle maritime aroma that distinguishes it from traditional ciders. The underwater aging process simulates the effects of cellar aging, maintaining a consistent temperature conducive to flavor development.
Jean-Benoit Deslauriers, the head winemaker at Benjamin Bridge in Nova Scotia, acknowledged the mystery surrounding how underwater aging influences alcoholic beverages. He explained that the stable, cool temperatures underwater prevent temperature fluctuations that can compromise the quality of the beverage. Additionally, the absence of ultraviolet light underwater protects the cider from light-induced damage.
Despite facing challenges in submerging the cider, Adams expressed enthusiasm for future attempts, learning from setbacks such as storms damaging the bottles. He plans to select calmer sea locations and secure the crates with anchors to mitigate damage from ocean currents in subsequent batches of High Tide. The ongoing experimentation with underwater aging reflects the company’s commitment to innovation in cider production.
Overall, the Newfoundland Cider Company’s venture into underwater aging represents a harmonious blend of nature’s elements, offering consumers a truly distinctive and adventurous tasting experience.