Bad weather may have led to a tourism downturn in Devon this summer, but it is proving perfect for the apple harvest and cider production.
Barney Butterfield, chief cidermaker at Sandford Orchards
“A late, cool spring, followed by a flaming June was the perfect start to the apple growing season,” said Barny Butterfield, chief cidermaker at Sandford Orchards.
“The wet July filled the water table as the fruit swelled, and the late sun at the end of August and early September has put us on track for big sweet juicy apples, and lots of them!
“We are predicting the best harvest since 2018. In fact, this could potentially be our biggest harvest ever!”
He added: “More apples means more cider, which, of course, is great news for our business and customers. But there is an added bonus for us with this crop.
“Unlike mass-produced cider, which is mostly made from concentrates, we lovingly make our drinks from raw juice, straight from the orchard. So tastier apples will mean even tastier cider! I can’t wait to try the first batch!”
