Cider Crisis as Climate Shifts | Bristol News

Somerset’s cider orchards are reeling from a brutal summer drought that’s slashed apple yields by up to 90%, forcing small producers to confront a climate crisis reshaping their craft. With two years of dry spells stressing trees and warming winters disrupting traditional varieties like Dabinett, farmers face dwindling harvests and rotting fruit—even when it looks fine on the outside. While hot weather boosted sales, it’s now crippling supply for those who rely on fresh juice, not concentrates. Growers are scrambling to adapt, even watering young trees—a costly shift from past practices—as scientists warn hotter, drier summers are here to stay, potentially altering the very flavor of West Country cider forever. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/6ed31cb09da64ebc