Lucien Alperstein, a scientist based in Sydney, has dedicated the last decade to picking feral apples from trees located along rural back roads to create cider. This unconventional hobby, which he refers to as a "guerilla" endeavor, emerged from his curiosity about the genetics and fermentation processes involved in cider production. Alperstein's commitment to wild apple picking has been a noteworthy aspect of his life, and it continues to fuel his passion for exploration and travel.

The inspiration for his cider-making venture stemmed from local legends about apple trees flourishing in the wild as a result of discarded apple cores or seeds. Alperstein's memories date back to his childhood when he would fill the trunk of his family car with apples during expeditions with his parents. His approach to cider making not only reflects a personal passion but also intertwines with his broader academic research on probiotics in aquaculture, highlighting an intersection between science and artisanal craft.

As for the future of his cider project, Alperstein remains uncertain, but he is motivated by a desire to continue exploring rural areas for these natural resources. His work is a testament to the connections that can be forged between nature, science, and creativity, illustrating that such pursuits can lead to both personal fulfillment and potential community engagement around local agriculture and sustainable practices.