I am excited to share that I recently joined Ria Windcaller on the renowned Cider Chat podcast for a deep and engaging conversation about Pommeau, its history, and how U.S. producers are increasingly exploring this traditional French beverage. The episode, 478: Pommeau: What Happens When a French Classic Lands on U.S. Labels, can be listened to via Cider Chat’s website here.
During the episode, Ria and I dive into the origin of Pommeau in northwestern France—typically produced by blending apple brandy with fresh apple juice—and discuss how American cideries, distilleries, and other craft producers are beginning to construct domestic interpretations. The conversation also touches on labeling considerations, TTB classification issues, and unique and emerging regulatory questions as interest in Pommeau grows in the U.S.
What makes this interview especially meaningful is Ria’s thoughtful, well-researched approach. Cider Chat has long been one of the most trusted, community-building platforms in the cider world. Ria has an incredible gift for elevating both technical and cultural conversations around cider, apple growing, orchard stewardship, and the cidermakers behind it all. Her interviews feel like sitting down with a knowledgeable guide who genuinely wants to further understand—and help others understand—the legal concerns behind cider.
For those interested in cider or the evolving landscape of Pommeau in America, this episode is a must-listen. Ria’s curiosity and generosity as a host make the discussion not only informative but enjoyable and accessible, even when tackling complex regulatory topics.
I was previously a guest on Cider Chat’s Episode 85: Cider Law.
I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to join the show and highly encourage anyone passionate about cider—professionally or personally—to explore Cider Chat’s archive. It is one of the richest and most welcoming resources in the industry.
Listen to the episode and explore more from Cider Chat at ciderchat.com.
