Features / Cider
Leaving the corporate world behind to make cider
Two Bristol friends have left their jobs in the corporate world to pursue their dreams of making cider.
Their company, Pulpt, based in Hewish, has a steadily growing range which Al Collar, 45, and Jim Wakefield, 43, say are perfect for “curious drinkers”. Al grew up in Bristol and now lives is West Harptree and Jim lives in North Curry, near Taunton.
In the spring of 2017, Al and Jim made the decision to walk away from their stable incomes and instead start a cider business. Pulpt was the result, showcasing the pair’s passion for cider and belief in their skills.
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Their first cider wasn’t launched until over a year later, in July 2018, as the process of making cider is a slow one.
Pulpt originally released three ciders, Union, Level and Verve to showcase the best of Somerset’s apples.
Union, Level and Verve were launched by Pulpt last year
“We want to create the best of what cider can be,” Al told Bristol24/7.
“It’s not mass produced. They’re for people that appreciate authenticity and want to enjoy their drink and the experience.”
Pulpt want to educate people on what cider can be and give everyone to opportunity to discover more ciders.
They are an innovative company in how they make their cider and use the best equipment and best methods to create products that are different to those normally found on supermarket shelves.
Pulpt have had success so far and are stocked in Bristol and throughout the South West, but are building on their brand, making it more widely available with the hope of being stocked across the UK.
There is also huge scope to create additional ciders, as well as perhaps even curating cider-based experiences as well.
Al and Jim want to showcase the best of Somerset’s apples
When asked what his favourite cider of the three currently for sale, Al says: “That’s unfair; I like all of them!
“I like them all in different ways. Level when I want a few drinks, Union for eating rich food and Verve in place of a sparkling wine.”
Read more: Your Bristol Favourites: cider
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