Herefordshire cider producers Once Upon A Tree are celebrating achieving PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status for their ciders with the release of their 2009 vintage Kingston Redstreak. This will be the first of many ciders from the Dragon Orchard estate to be released with the new accreditation.

“Being awarded PGI status absolutely guarantees our claims to be making cider using traditional methods with traditional cider apple varieties within Herefordshire," explains Cider Maker Simon Day “it also means that the heritage and tradition of cider making in Herefordshire is brought to the attention of consumers. I hope it will bring interest back from the mass producers to the farm business and promote our local, rural economy in Herefordshire."

The PGI accolade ensures that the ciders are made to strict rules and that they meet geographical and quality criteria. Only when they succeed in this process can they be named a Herefordshire Cider and join the elite group of designated products.

“I’m delighted to say that in this new 2009 vintage the famous Kingston Black flavours come through really well, and are perfectly complimented by the Redstreak." says Simon "It’s a medium-dry cider with a rich, spiced filled nose, a full body and a soft finish that fans of our 2008 vintage champion Kingston Black will love. "

Once Upon A Tree are now established in Herefordshire as quality cider producers, and consistently win awards for their ciders and perry. Their commitment to increase production reflects this success and the number of bottles produced for their 2009 vintage will see a four-fold increase on last year.

The launch of Kingston Redstreak coincides with the public “Grand Opening” of the NEW Once Upon A Tree Shop at Dragon Orchard, on the 31^st July at 11am.   Once Upon A Tree are celebrating the opening of the new, purpose built shop with free tastings of local produce, special discounts, and a free “Orchard Days” poetry walk around Dragon Orchard.

The ciders are also available via mail order, or through a number of stockists.