Drought decimates Somerset cider apple crop

Somerset's cider orchards have been severely affected by a prolonged summer drought, with some producers harvesting only a tenth of their usual crop. Trees are stressed, dropping unripe fruit, and many have produced no fruit at all. Producers like Kimberly Jones of Honey's Cider near Bath report a 90% reduction in apples, while Neil MacDonald, managing over 1,000 acres, has lost about half his crop to premature fruit drop and rot. George Scott of Rich's Cider, who normally harvests 20-30 tonnes per orchard, expects far less and notes that neighboring growers are also down significantly. The drought follows a dry 2025, compounding stress on trees. Climate scientists warn that such extreme weather may become more common. Additionally, mild winters have reduced the yield of Dabinett apples, a key variety for Somerset cider's bittersweet taste, prompting some growers to graft more drought-resistant varieties. While current cider stocks remain sufficient, the long-term viability of orchards and the traditional flavor profile are at risk.