The Core Ingredients in Bulmers Original Cider
At its heart, the standard UK version of Bulmers Original is crafted from a concise list of components. The distinct taste comes from a blend of apples, which are processed into juice concentrate, then rehydrated and sweetened during production. This process is a key part of making the cider consistently and in large volumes.
The Role of Apples: From Orchard to Concentrate
Bulmers cider is made from 100% British apples sourced primarily from Herefordshire orchards, continuing a tradition that began in 1887. The recipe incorporates a variety of apple types to achieve its balanced flavor profile. This blend includes both sweeter eating apples and sharper, bittersweet cider apples, such as Dabinett and Michelin, which add depth and character to the final product. By using juice from concentrate, the product's flavor remains consistent across batches.
Other Key Components
In addition to the apple juice from concentrate, Bulmers Original contains:
- Water: Used to reconstitute the apple juice concentrate to the desired strength and alcohol content.
- Sugar: Added to adjust the sweetness of the cider, complementing the natural sugars from the apples.
- Sodium Metabisulphite: This additive serves as an antioxidant and preservative, preventing spoilage and ensuring the cider remains fresh. It is important to note that this ingredient contains sulphites, which are highlighted as an allergen.
Ingredients in Other Bulmers Variants
While the Original flavor provides a baseline, other Bulmers products have more complex ingredient lists to achieve their unique flavors. For example, Bulmers Crushed Red Berries & Lime includes a mix of fruit juices and additional acids.
Bulmers Crushed Red Berries & Lime Ingredients
- Water
- Apple Juice (from Concentrate)
- Sugar
- Fruit Juices (from concentrate): A blend of sour cherry, lime, elderberry, blueberry, strawberry, and raspberry juices.
- Malic Acid: A natural acid found in fruits, contributing to the tart flavor.
- Citric Acid: Another natural acid used to add a citrusy tang.
- Coloring Food (from carrot concentrate): Used to achieve the red color naturally.
- Natural Flavorings: Provides the distinct berry and lime taste.
- Sodium Metabisulphite: Acts as an antioxidant and preservative.
Comparison Table: Bulmers Original vs. Crushed Red Berries & Lime
| Ingredient | Bulmers Original | Bulmers Crushed Red Berries & Lime |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Juice | Yes (from concentrate) | Yes (from concentrate) |
| Water | Yes | Yes |
| Sugar | Yes | Yes |
| Antioxidant | Sodium Metabisulphite | Sodium Metabisulphite |
| Additional Fruit Juices | No | Yes (Cherry, Lime, Elderberry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Raspberry) |
| Acids | No | Yes (Malic Acid, Citric Acid) |
| Coloring | No | Yes (Carrot Concentrate) |
| Natural Flavorings | No | Yes |
Dietary Information and Additives
Bulmers prides itself on using 100% British apples and avoiding artificial additives in its core UK range. This includes being free from artificial flavorings, colours, and sweeteners. Furthermore, all Bulmers ciders are suitable for vegans, as no animal products are used in their production. The ciders are also gluten-free.
It is worth noting that some regional variations of Bulmers, such as those found in mainland Europe, may have slightly different ingredient lists. For instance, a Belgian version of Bulmers Original has been documented to contain potassium metabisulphite and plain caramel colouring, unlike the UK version's use of sodium metabisulphite. Consumers should always check the label of the specific product they are purchasing.
Conclusion
The fundamental recipe for Bulmers cider is surprisingly simple, built on a foundation of British apple juice (from concentrate), water, sugar, and a preservative. While the Original variant keeps it classic, the brand expands its portfolio with flavored options that incorporate additional fruit juices, natural flavorings, and acids. Bulmers has committed to using only natural flavors and colors in its UK products and sourcing 100% British apples, reinforcing its heritage. For those with dietary concerns, the brand's suitability for vegans and gluten-free status makes it accessible to a wider audience, provided they are not sensitive to sulphites. Understanding these key ingredients offers a deeper appreciation for the taste and quality of the cider in every bottle.
