On June 10–11, 2025, the team from the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMU) Polli Horticultural Research Centre visited two inspiring cider producers near Smiltene, Latvia – Mūrbūdu Sidrs and Abuls Sidrs.
- Mūrbūdu Sidrs impressed us with their innovative and flavorful ciders, while
- Abuls Sidrs focuses on traditional cider-making and natural purity.
Between the visits, a meeting of project partners took place to discuss what makes a truly good cider – which apple varieties are best suited for it, and how to define and document cider terroir – the combination of factors that most influence the quality and character of cider, such as variety, cultivation and production techniques, climate, and soil.
The project includes 7 Latvian and 4 Estonian cider producers. On the scientific side, the Latvian Institute of Horticulture (LatHort) and the EMU Polli Horticultural Research Centre contribute to the project’s success. The initiative is led by representatives from rural tourism associations in Latvia and Estonia.
Our collaboration in developing cider culture continues!