Producing the Goods

Somerset Cider Brandy

A treasure from Somerset is cider brandy, revived in 1989 by Julian Temperley at Burrow Hill Farm, Kingsbury Episcopi, and now with an international reputation of high quality. The orchards at Burrow Hill are traditionally managed, with grazing sheep, and produce Harry Masters Jersey, Stoke Red, Kingston Black and Brown Snout apples which go into the Temperley products, from cider and cider vinegar, to aperitifs and the famous cider brandy range. Somerset Royal is bottled at three years, Somerset Five at five and there is a small run of Ten Year each year, which has limited distribution and is best bought from the farm. The Somerset Pomona blends cider brandy with apple juice.

Temperley's products are as good-looking as they are tasty, and his bottle labels - by a different well-known artist each year (eg. Elisabeth Fink and David Inshaw) - are collectable in their own right. So as a souvenir, these drinks have added value, as the bottle or label can be displayed once the drink has gone. There are other special editions; one bottling is sold in a ceramic flask made by potter John Leach. Or a 'Spirit of Somerset' gift set.

More information:
<www.ciderbrandy.co.uk>