Hardanger
Liora and Yolanda visit Hardanger in Norway to find out more about apples and hard cider, the wine of the north. Did you know that the fjord valley with its steep mountains create a microclimate perfect for growing fruits? Our hosts are eager to learn more about this, so they meet up with three apple-farmers to select three different ciders. Chef Steinar Rinaldo is ready for the chef’s challenge. Will his dishes match the chosen ciders?
Gardsutsal
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Hardanger
Surrounded by steep mountains, the Hardangerfjord and the Folgefonna glacier, Alde Sider is idyllically located on Bleie farm in Sørfjorden. The juice and cider producer, which was awarded the best in Norway in 2018, sells the noble drops from both the farm and Vinmonopolet (alcoholic beverage retailer). Gravenstein-, Discovery-, Summerred-, and Aroma apples are used in Alde's production of the traditional beverage.
The farm is open for private individuals, but also for groups by appointment.
Åker Gard
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Hardanger
Situated on the west side of the Sørfjorden in Ullensvang, with a perfect location for growing the tasty Hardanger apples, you’ll find the farm Åkre Gard. Fruit has been grown here for eight generations. In recent years, the current generation has increased their focus on apple juice production, liquor, and cider from Hardanger.
The various types of cider, all with the brand name Edel Sider, have already received several national and international awards, and it is not without reason. By using the Champagne and Charmant method, the cider farmers Arita and Gjermund have taken the traditional cider production a step further. Edel Sider can be bought directly from the farm, Vinmonopolet, and in selected restaurants.
Ulvik Fruit and Cideri
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The Fruit and Cider Route is a collaboration between Hardanger Saft- og Siderfabrikk, Syse Farm, and Ulvik Frukt & Cideri. Yearly, the group hosts festivals in May (Siderslepp; celebrating their ciders) and October (Fruktslepp; celebrating the fruit harvest). All farms have outlets selling cider and other farm produce, such as fresh fruit, meat and apple juice. If you wish to sample the exquisite products and step inside the breweries, you may book a tour through Taste Hardanger - tastehardanger.com.
Groups that wish to visit for guided tours and product tasting should contact the individual farms directly. All the farms are within walking distance of Ulvik town center, and every farm offers a truly unique experience