Innovation at Cidrerie Manoir du Val: Blending Tradition and Modernity
Located in Normandy's Pays de Risle, Cidrerie Manoir du Val and with maker Marie Bourut at the helm s crafting innovative ciders with a nod to tradition. With Marie's husband Thomas Courtoux., this couple has transformed a historic orchard. From pioneering the production of Blanc Cider (white cider) to fermenting with Sorbus Domestica via the distinctive LaCormé Cidre, the duo's approach is reshaping the way we think about Normandy cider.
In this Cider Chat
Arnould Nazarian helped connect Cider Chat with Marie and was on hand during this interview and helping with the translation. Arnould's hobby is both finding Sorbus Domestica trees and sharing his affection for this magical fruit. Listen to his two Cider Chat's
One of the standout ferments at Cidrerie Manoir du Val is the development of La Cormé Cidre, a cider made with the unique Sorbus Domestica tree. This rare fruit imparts a complexity and depth of flavor that sets it apart from more traditional apple-based ciders. Marie and her husband have also crafted Blanc Cidre, a white cider made by halting the oxidation process to create a fresh, clear cider that pairs perfectly with seafood and light dishes.
La Corme Cidre
More Innovation! To support the orchard's demanding harvest, Marie's husband, Thomas, designed and built a custom machine called the Delorian. This tricked out tractor picks up apples from the ground, dramatically speeding up the harvesting process and reducing the need for manual labor.
The Ciders of Cidrerie Manoir du Val
Pink Cider (Rosé) – Made from red-fleshed apples like La Rouge du Val, this vibrant cider is a sweet, fruit-forward offering with a stunning hue.
La Cormé Cider – This unique cider is made with a blend of apples, pears, and the rare Sorbus Domestica fruit, bringing a balance of tartness and complexity. Note: Arnould and his mother Charlotte pick all the Sorbs used Ciderie Manoir du Val.
Blanc Cider – A white cider that stands out for its clarity and crispness, perfect for pairing with seafood. The lack of oxidation during pressing keeps the cider fresh and bright- hear how this is done in the episode.
There is also Calvados, Pommeau, Fresh Pressed Apple Juice and Poiré
Apple Varieties at Manoir du Val
Cidrerie Manoir du Val's ciders are made from a carefully selected range of apple varieties, each chosen for its unique contribution to the cider-making process. Some of the key varieties include:
La Rouge du Val (Red-fleshed apple) – name after the estate
La Petit Jaune (Acidic variety)
Chlorono (Sweet variety)
Doux Vérets de Carrouges (Sweet variety)
Benit Rouge & Douce Moen (Bitter Sweet)
FréquinRouge & Marie Menard (Bitter variety)
The Delorian – apple picker upper
Where to Find Cidrerie Manoir du Val Ciders
Cidrerie Manoir du Val products are sold both at their farm store and in various locations throughout the Paris region, including:
If you're ever in Normandy, visiting the cidery is a must — not only for the ciders but also for a closer look at their innovative approach to cider-making.
To learn more about innovative cider makers like Marie Bourut and stay informed on the latest episodes of Cider Chat, subscribe to the podcast and the Cider Chat YouTube channel. By subscribing, you'll be notified of upcoming episodes that focus on cider-making, so you won't miss any of the exciting stories from the world of cider.
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