Hawkstone Cider: A Premium Medium-Dry British Craft Cider with Heritage and Heart
When it comes to British cider, few names carry the same promise of craftsmanship, local pride, and authentic flavor as Hawkstone Cider. This exceptional beverage is more than just a drink—it’s a story told through generations of orchard keepers, cider makers, and heritage apple trees that flourish in the mineral-rich soils of the Cotswolds.
Crafted in partnership with Guy Lawrence, a fifth-generation cider maker at Weston’s Cider, Hawkstone is developed to match the taste and vision of farming icon Kaleb Cooper—a name many will recognize from British agricultural television. Each bottle of Hawkstone Cider is a testament to British tradition and excellence.
Handcrafted Using the Finest British Apples
What makes Hawkstone Cider stand out from the average store-bought option is its commitment to quality from orchard to bottle. Every cider apple used in Hawkstone’s unique blend is picked within 50 miles of the mill and pressed fresh—never from concentrate and never pasteurised. That means all the flavors, aromas, and natural essences of the apples are fully preserved.
Once pressed, the juice undergoes a meticulous fermentation process lasting up to six months. This slow fermentation takes place in aged oak barrels using champagne yeast, which contributes to the cider’s crisp texture and layered complexity. After fermentation, the cider is cold-filtered to preserve freshness while ensuring a clean, refined finish. The result is a medium-dry cider with a bold, refreshing character that’s both easy to drink and rich in flavor.
Tasting Notes and Aroma
Crack open a bottle of Hawkstone Cider and you’re greeted with an elegant aroma of fresh apples, hints of wood from the oak barrels, and a light floral note. On the palate, it’s perfectly balanced—medium dry, slightly tannic, and naturally sweet with a gentle sparkle.
Each sip delivers layers of apple complexity. There’s a juicy upfront flavor that transitions into soft acidity and finishes with just a touch of bitter-sweet apple peel and oak. This is a cider for people who appreciate natural ingredients and expert craft.
The Story Behind the Name: A Stone of Strength
The name Hawkstone is drawn from the legendary Neolithic standing stone that sits proudly atop the Cotswold Hills. This ancient stone, carved from local bedrock and hauled into place by hand thousands of years ago, stands as a symbol of perseverance and strength—qualities that mirror the cider’s bold yet balanced profile.
Looking over the lush orchards of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire, the Hawkstone watches over the very same lands that grow the apples used to make this cider. It’s a fitting namesake for a drink rooted in British soil and tradition.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Each case includes 12 x 500ml bottles—ideal for gatherings, barbecues, and Sunday afternoons in the garden. With an alcohol volume of 5% ABV, Hawkstone Cider offers a satisfying and social drink without overpowering your senses.
Serve it chilled straight from the fridge or over ice for an ultra-refreshing twist. Hawkstone pairs beautifully with pork dishes, mature cheeses, and hearty salads. It’s also a great companion for roast dinners or classic pub food.
Why Choose Hawkstone Cider?
- Crafted by a fifth-generation cider maker
- Fresh-pressed apples, never from concentrate
- Fermented in oak barrels with champagne yeast
- Unpasteurised for full flavor
- Named after the iconic Cotswold Hawkstone
Whether you’re a long-time cider fan or looking to explore craft options with more heritage and care, Hawkstone Cider offers an unforgettable experience. This is not your average mass-market drink—it’s cider made with respect for tradition, local agriculture, and the pursuit of excellence.
From its roots in ancient British soil to its modern appeal and crisp, bold taste, Hawkstone Cider is a tribute to everything that makes British craft beverages exceptional.