Twenty years after Frightened Rabbit’s debut album resonated with a generation, Grant Hutchison is embarking on a new creative journey. It’s a path born not of escaping music, but of a lifelong, quietly held passion – cider.
The loss of his brother and bandmate, Scott, in 2018 prompted a necessary shift, a stepping away from the intense world of touring and recording. But it also created space for something else to blossom, a dream he’d once casually voiced in an interview: to work in a cheese shop or, perhaps, to make his own cider.
That seed of an idea took root, evolving into Re:stalk, a cider import and distribution company, and ultimately, Aeble – Scotland’s first dedicated cider shop. Located in the charming coastal town of Anstruther, Fife, Aeble isn’t just a shop; it’s a testament to a deeply held belief in the potential of this often-overlooked beverage.
Grant remembered the frustration of touring, of discovering exceptional ciders in places like Bristol only to return to Scotland and find shelves dominated by familiar, mass-produced brands. A gap existed, a world of flavor and craftsmanship unknown to many.
The move to Anstruther with his wife, Jaye, during the pandemic felt serendipitous. Spotting a vacant shop, they took a chance, a “punt” as Grant described it, and Aeble was born. It quickly became a haven for both locals and tourists, a vibrant hub in a quiet fishing town.
But Grant wasn’t content with simply selling cider. He wanted to share the stories behind it, to connect people with the passionate producers crafting these unique drinks. He missed the direct interaction lost in wholesale distribution, the joy of guiding someone to a cider they’d truly love.
Now, Grant and Jaye are launching the Ubhal Cider Gathering in Edinburgh on March 28th. This isn’t just a tasting event; it’s a mission to redefine cider’s image, to elevate it to the level of respect enjoyed by wine and whisky.
“People think they know cider,” Grant explained, “but what we’re talking about is something much closer to natural wine.” He envisions cider as a national drink, a celebration of British craftsmanship and tradition.
Jaye’s influence has been crucial in shaping Aeble’s welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by her experiences in Melbourne and a honeymoon in Japan, she’s created a space where curiosity is encouraged, and questions are not only welcomed but celebrated.
They’ve intentionally avoided the intimidating atmosphere of some specialist shops, prioritizing personal connection and education. Aeble attracts a diverse clientele – cider aficionados, curious locals, and even dedicated fans of Frightened Rabbit making a pilgrimage.
The Ubhal Cider Gathering will showcase 15 producers, ten from Scotland and five from England, offering attendees a chance to experience the breadth and depth of the cider world. Limited to 100 tickets per session, it’s an intimate opportunity to learn about the art and science behind each drink.
Jaye emphasized the event’s goal: to provide a platform for these dedicated makers, from Herefordshire to Fife, who pour their passion and respect for tradition into every bottle. She believes cider is on the cusp of a cultural shift, driven by a growing interest in natural, lower-alcohol beverages and environmentally conscious choices.
Choosing Edinburgh as the location was a deliberate decision, prioritizing accessibility and the potential for growth. They envision the Ubhal Cider Gathering becoming an annual event, a cornerstone of a burgeoning cider culture in Scotland and beyond.
Ultimately, the Ubhal Cider Gathering is about more than just tasting cider; it’s about celebrating a craft, a community, and a shared passion for a drink that deserves a place at the table – or perhaps, in the glass – alongside the nation’s favorites.
