The cider roads from Normandy to Italy.

The Cider Sommeliers and Tasters Association (APAS) proposes the organization in Italy of five events dedicated to cider tasting, with the aim of promoting mutual knowledge of the cider productions from Normandy and Italy. This initiative would create a cultural and productive dialogue between two territories united by a long agricultural tradition and a growing focus on enhancing cider production. To organize these meetings, guided by Sommeliers and Cider Guides affiliated with the Association, APAS is seeking products from Normandy: indeed, the Italian public traditionally recognizes Normandy as one of the main reference areas for cider production, as many consumers associate this drink with gastronomic and cultural experiences enjoyed during stays and trips in France. Through a tasting and in-depth exploration pathway that will also involve Italian cider producers from Central and Southern Italy, the public will be able to learn about the productive, historical, and cultural characteristics of a beverage that represents an important element of the European agri-food heritage. APAS suggests here indicative dates, which can be specified based on the availability of French producers, should they wish to personally participate in one or more events. In fact, the direct presence of producers would represent an important added value, allowing the public to engage with the experiences, production techniques, and traditions that characterize their regions of origin. THE PROJECT IDEA This initiative is based on the historical significance of the relationships between Normandy and Southern Italy, areas that preserve important testimonies of the Norman presence during the Middle Ages. This aspect offers the opportunity to incorporate cider tasting within a broader reflection on the shared heritage of knowledge and skills between the two European areas, reinforcing its cultural significance. CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL VALUE The initiative is not limited to the commercial promotion of products, but aims to develop greater public awareness regarding cider culture, its various territorial expressions, and the agricultural practices that determine its quality. The tastings will therefore be designed as moments of education and dissemination, capable of bringing consumers, industry operators, and enthusiasts closer together. SUPPORT FOR QUALITY AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIONS The project enhances productions linked to the territory and apple cultivation, contributing to the promotion of sustainable agricultural models and supply chains characterized by strong local roots. The collaboration between Italian and Norman producers will also highlight the different varietal and production traditions, showcasing the richness and diversity of the European pomological heritage. STRENGTHENING RELATIONS BETWEEN EUROPEAN TERRITORIES By involving producers, associations, and the public from both countries, the initiative aims to foster new opportunities for collaboration and exchange between entities united by their interest in cider culture. In this perspective, the meetings could represent a first step towards future shared activities in the fields of cultural promotion, specialized training, and the enhancement of quality agri-food productions. IMPACT The realization of events in various cities in Central and Southern Italy will allow for reaching a wide and diverse audience, generating positive impacts for the host realities and the operators involved. The presence of both Norman and Italian products within the same tasting pathway will represent a distinctive element capable of attracting the interest of enthusiasts, professionals, and cultural operators, contributing to the dissemination of greater mutual knowledge between the two production traditions. CALENDAR Currently, five tasting meetings have been planned: - One in November 2026 in conjunction with the conference “The Normans in the Western Mediterranean,” University of Salerno - Four between April and May 2027, having already consulted the availability of producers and hosting venues. Some details remain to be defined, but contacts have already been made for their clarification. Thus, the proposed calendar includes the following Italian locations: 2026 Mercato San Severino (SA): in conjunction with the conference “The Normans in the Western Mediterranean,” University of Salerno, November 24, 2026. 2027 Rome (RM): Casadora Craft Pasta Shop with Kitchen Salerno (SA): location to be defined Castellana Grotte (BA): Lieviteria: Brewpub & Craft Brewery Catania (CT): Mosaik Beer House & Tea Room Practical information: all audiences Between 10 and 15 euros to cover material costs