Today (June 21) marks Summer Solstice which means the summer season has officially begun – although the hot weather has been hanging around for a while! So, of course, we’re looking for ways to cool off constantly, from outdoor swimming to hiding in the cinema. But one of the simplest experiences of our childhood was filling up on refreshing slushies. While some say we’re a bit too grown up to enjoy a colourful frozen beverage (we wouldn’t agree), The Cider Box might have the answer.
Bristol being Bristol, cider is everywhere. Especially in the summertime when they make the perfect pairing. The city is understandably obsessed with cider pubs. But only one has been brave enough to combine the South West speciality with our childhood fave and make cider slushies. Is this Heaven?
The Cider Box is well-known for sourcing the best and latest independently brewed craft and traditional ciders. They have been distributing these finds to a loyal fanbase at their Wapping Wharf-based store. (They also have a taproom in St Phillip’s we urge you to check out too.) But it’s these awesome summertime exclusives that wheel us back to Harbourside every weekend.
These cider slushies are made with fresh pressed full-juice cider tossed around in a slushy machine until nice and icy. They’re then served with a splash of Somerset Cider Brandy and a sprig of mint. Doesn’t that sound refreshing? If you prefer you can always just help yourself to just plain ol’ regular cider, either from the fridges crammed with cold cans or the draught dispense pouring fresh cider.
If you happen to be reading this article in the winter, however, we’re afraid you won’t find any cider slushies. But The Cider Box will be serving up hot spiced cider instead! The Cider Box at Wapping Wharf is open Thursday and Friday from 1 to 8 pm, Saturday from 12 to 8 pm, and Sunday from 12 to 5 pm. TO learn more head here.
Unit 10, Cargo 2, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6ZA
The Cider Box, Arch 5, Silverthorne Lane, BS2 0QD