Expert: Paul Wagner - 5/18/2008

Question
Do you know why Cider isn't readily available/popular in Portugal?

Answer
HI Jason

Every country has its own food and beverage traditions, which is not surprising.  Food and wine are expressions of the culture that makes them.  Apples have never been a big crop in Portugal (although quite popular in Asturias, in nearby northern Spain).  Cider seems to be a very Norman drink--it exists mainly where the Normans lived:  Normandy, Britain, and Asturias.  You can find it in the USA (at least in some parts) but we have a strong cultural connection with Britain.  It's hard to find in Italy, Greece, and as you have discovered, Portugal.  There they drink Vinho Verde, which is a bright, fresh white wine that sometimes tastes just a bit like Cider!

Paul Wagner