Each vintage of the Art of Darkness allows us to combine the best of our home orchard fruit with some sensitive barrel maturation.
After a break in 2020, Art of Darkness returns in style with 2021. It's a blend of four-fifth Ellis Bitter aged in cognac barrels for 12 months with wine-barrel-aged Dabinett.
Sunshine on straw in the glass, there’s a characteristic hint of damp cave on the nose with a big weight of ripe stone buried underneath – all apricot and peach fuzz – along with spice and perfume. In the mouth it balances barrel influence and plum and apricot juiciness with beautiful freshness and silky texture. The tannins have softened over time and have the texture of wet slate.
As gastronomic a cider as you’ll find, pair it with the likes of baked fish in a harissa- or paprika-laced sauce, or a gratin of fresh courgettes or a piece of cave-aged cheese.
Serve at 10°C. Gluten free. Vegan friendly. Contains sulphites
6.9% abv