Hitting The Small Screen!

We're thrilled to announce that we'll be on James Martin's Saturday Morning on ITV show tomorrow morning! Fans will know that as well as being one of those chefs that make the tastiest dishes seem effortless, James is a strong supporter of British producers. So the chance to chat with him about the joy of being part of the cider renaissance while he creates a fine dish was a dream. 

With James' roots in the countryside, it was a pleasure to send over some of our favourite apples as well as a wee selection of our ciders to pick from. Filming took place a few weeks ago and all along we wanted to be in our Cider Garden. But would the weather allow? Plan B was always to be under our awning, so you can imagine our joy when the day dawned bright - and not too breezy! Out among the trees it was. And cider dog Joey provided a willing audience.

James' guest chef this week is John Hooker, proprietor with wife Emma of gastropub, The Cornish Arms in Tavistock, Devon. Another strong proponent of unfussy flavours and provenance, we were both excited and nervous.

James chose a delicious dish of pork chops with cider and hispi cabbage, full of flavour and character, and perfect to show off cider's versatility. But which cider were they going to choose? And, more importantly, what would they think?

Tune in to find out... the show kicks off at 9.30am, and luckily for us (and our nerves), we think we're going to be in the first show segment.

Thanks guys, and in particular, Hannah, for your interest, and for working with us to share the story. It's going to be a darn good vintage for many apples this year. With your support and encouragement, let's make cider that all-year-round drink that it can be. Let's partner it, as James has done, with more than just ploughmans (although nought wrong with that!)

Wish us luck for harvest. Our latest releases, the Autumn Collection, are online and in the process of heading out to our stockists as I write. We look forward to seeing you soon - our next Open Day is Sunday 20 November, and more on that soon.

And for those in our region, the Bottle Shop remains open Saturday, 12-3pm during harvest and winter, and by appointment.

Wassail!