The symmetry between the brands is obvious – like Rocks Brewing Co, Tilse’s Apple Truck Cider is a family-based business that is focused on creating a quality product that stands out in a crowded marketplace.
Head of Sales for Rocks Brewing, Tim Fishwick, says that the decision to work with Tilse was an easy one that sees both brands playing to their strengths.
“We’re really excited about finally putting our first beers into the tanks at our new brewery, and right now we’re focussed on doing what we do best – making beer,” he says. “Luke Tilse has been a great supporter of Rocks in the Newcastle market, and we love the fact we’re able to repay the favour by getting his genuine natural ciders to market, both in pack and on tap.”
Apple Truck Cider is based at a small orchard at the foot of Barrington Tops, in the Upper Hunter Valley area. The Tilse family have owned the land since 1916 and have grown everything from oranges, plums, peaches, and pears, to cabernet and merlot grapes.
Focussed on quality, Apple Truck Cider uses a combination of Red Delicious and Granny Smith apples, grown both in the Tilse’s own orchard as well as on the plains around the township of Orange in NSW. Using no added sugars, and absolutely no concentrates, in the cider’s creation results in a crisp, medium sweet cider with a huge apple nose and a refreshing, slightly tart finish – perfect for year-round drinking.
“We’re looking forward to working with Tilse to build the brand in Sydney,” says Fishwick. “Once it’s establish, we’ll definitely be looking at other markets where Apple Truck is not currently available.”
Apple Truck Cider has replaced Rocks Brewing Co’s own cider offering – previously known as Pickpocket – in the portfolio currently offered by the brand. The character of the Pickpocket is not about to be forgotten however, with a relaunch as a new permanent beer due to be unveiled in the next few months.
