Back To The Woods
Egremont Russet returns once more, following a sell-out performance earlier this year – but this time it's been dallying with the spirit world rather than the winos.
In our view, Egremont Russet is one of the marvels of the dessert apple world. This cider came from the final act of the 2019 pressing season, when we ran a portion of the juice coming from the press directly in a cognac barrel (Remy Martin to be exact). This fermented spontaneously, settled pretty clear and tasted increasingly fantastic as time wore on. At one point in its evolution we decided to bottle it, unfiltered and without any additions.
It’s a powerful statement of a brilliant apple variety. It has a vinous quality about it for sure – think white burgundy or late picked Grüner Veltliner in its texture and feel – but make no mistake about it, this is all apple.
On the nose, a distinct fennel note overlays what can only be described as the very essence of Egremont Russet. In the mouth it is all apricot, honey and flowers with a clear lime skin note that runs through it. The signature nuttiness of Egremont Russet, along with fragrant barrel emerges on a very long finish.
Pair this with dishes on the richer side of life – fish pies or stews, ham hock (especially with lentils), or seared scallops and black pudding. It’s also versatile enough to work across a cheese board.
A limited run of 220 bottles it will be available via our Shop and online only, with members receiving their customary Club10 discount. That’s not quite true – when things reopen, it will also be on the tasting menu at the genius, Michelin-starred restaurant, Pensons, just up the road from us, and it's already in stock with our long-time supporters at the Hereford Beer House.
Egremont Russet - cognac barrel fermented - £12/bottle, 8.4%