[quote=Ashgan]
I see; didn't know they even called untreated apple juice 'cider' in the States. The article does claim though that it is only available in fall, so the people would still have to make do with something else for 3/4 of the year.
[/quote]

Stockpiles. Stockpiles of all the royal cider kept for Lord Solterra and his sister... and Flooby, on special occasions.

Edit; My personal favorite is hot cider
My GOD that shit is intoxicating 

"Hot apple cider" or "mulled cider" (similar to "Wassail") is a popular fall (autumn) and winter beverage,[18] consisting of apple cider, heated to a temperature just below boiling, with cinnamon, orange peel, nutmeg, cloves, or other spices added.