460: James B. Forbes on Little Pomona's Ciders & Legacy

460: James B. Forbes on Little Pomona's Ciders & Legacy

Author: Ria Windcaller: Award-winning Cidermaker, Podcaster | Craft Beer Columnist May 21, 2025 Duration: 45:47

An intimate sit down with James Forbes of Little Pomona to talk about grief of losing his wife and business partner Susanna Forbes, the growth of the cidery, and the evolving identity of one this select cidery.

Remembering Susanna Forbes

Susanna Forbes, co-founder of Little Pomona, passed away in 2024. Her warmth, encouragement, and belief in others shaped the cidery from day one. As James puts it,

"She was always trying to build up and support others – including me."

Cider Chat Ep 460 James Forbes, Ria and Susanna 2019
James, Ria and Susanna 2019

What's New at Little Pomona

  • Champagne Method Quince Wine – Possibly the second of its kind globally, due this summer.
  • Champagne Method Egremont Russet – One of his favorite apples, now sparkling.
  • Keeved Ciders – A new path, with mixed results but promising bottles.
  • Distilled Projects – Collaborations with Capreolus and Pleasant Land to craft pommeau aged in chestnut barrels.
  • Annual Disco Nouveau – Returning with the 2022 and 2023 vintages.
  • Natural Yeast Ferments – Used throughout, except the second ferment in méthode champenoise.

Where to Find Little Pomona

Mentions in this Cider Chat

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There’s a whole world in a glass of cider, and Cider Chat is your invitation to explore it. Hosted by award-winning cidermaker and writer Ria Windcaller, this podcast travels far beyond the bottle to meet the people who make the global cider culture so vibrant. Each conversation is a journey-you might find yourself in a heritage orchard learning the history of forgotten apple varieties, in a bustling taproom with an importer explaining regional traditions, or in a kitchen with a chef pairing cider with unexpected foods. The discussions get into the delightful nuances, too, whether that’s the semantics of what we even call this drink or how the concept of terroir translates from soil to sip. It’s not just about production; it’s about the community, the travel, and the stories that fermentation unlocks. This is for anyone curious about the craft, history, and sheer enjoyment of fermented apple juice in all its forms. So, pour a glass and settle in for a series that feels like a wide-ranging, informative, and genuinely good-humored chat with friends who happen to be obsessed with cider. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for every effervescent, tart, or sweet sip, hearing directly from the growers, makers, and enthusiasts who are shaping this drink’s exciting present and future.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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