Strongbow (cider)

British brand of cider

Strongbow is a brand of cider produced by H. P. Bulmer in the United Kingdom since 1960. It is named after the medieval knight Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Pembroke, known as "Strongbow" for his skill with the longbow. Strongbow is the world's leading cider brand, with a significant presence in the UK, Europe, and North America.

History

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Strongbow logo 2012

Strongbow was first introduced in 1960 by H. P. Bulmer, a cider-making company based in Hereford, England. The brand quickly gained popularity due to its crisp, refreshing taste and strong marketing campaigns. In 2003, Bulmers was acquired by Scottish & Newcastle, which was later taken over by Heineken in 2008. Under Heineken's ownership, Strongbow has continued to expand its market reach and product range.

Production

Strongbow is made from a blend of bittersweet cider apples, primarily grown in the orchards of Herefordshire. The production process involves pressing the apples to extract the juice, which is then fermented and matured to develop its distinctive flavor. The cider is filtered and carbonated before being packaged for distribution.

Varieties

Strongbow offers a range of cider varieties to cater to different tastes. The original Strongbow cider is known for its dry, crisp taste. Other popular variants include:

• Strongbow Dark Fruit: A sweeter cider with blackcurrant and blackberry flavors.
• Strongbow Cloudy Apple: A traditional cloudy cider with a rich apple taste.
• Strongbow Rosé: A light, fruity cider with a pink hue.

Marketing and Branding

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Strongbow UK logo

Strongbow's marketing campaigns have played a significant role in its success. The brand is known for its iconic "Earn It" campaign, which emphasizes the rewarding nature of enjoying a Strongbow after a hard day's work. The brand's logo, featuring a stylized archer, reinforces its association with strength and precision.

Global Presence

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Strongbow cider in the US

Strongbow is available in over 50 countries worldwide. In the United States, Strongbow has adapted its product offerings to suit local tastes, introducing sweeter variants like Strongbow Gold Apple and Strongbow Honey & Apple. In Europe, Strongbow remains a market leader, particularly in the UK, where it is one of the top-selling ciders.

Cultural Impact

Strongbow has become synonymous with cider in many regions, often being the first choice for consumers seeking a refreshing alcoholic beverage. Its presence at festivals, pubs, and social gatherings has cemented its status as a staple in the cider market.

Related pages

• Cider
• H. P. Bulmer
• Heineken
• Herefordshire

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Strongbow cider bottle