Devon-based Sandford Orchards is delighted to launch a new limited edition 2024 Vintage Perry (ABV 7.5%) which will be available in 750ml bottles from Sandford Orchards and select retailers as well as to guests at Deer Park Country House, Weston.
Barny Butterfield, Chief Cidermaker at Sandford Orchards comments: “I planted a small perry orchard on a friend’s farm 15 years ago and completely forgot about it. This autumn Tom picked up the phone and asked what we were going to do with all these pears? Nothing for a decade and a half – then a trailer load! As with cider apples, perry pears are grown only for the amazing drink they produce – they are essentially inedible. But if you do the job well, the results are sublime. Perry is traditionally naturally sweeter than cider, and this bottling is wonderfully rich, aromatic and delicious. I put these pears together with those grown with some more friends of ours at the sublime Deer Park country house – we help manage their gorgeous orchard, including some rows of Brandy and Blakeney Red perry pears.”
Barny continues: “Perry pears are trickier customers than predictable cider apples, a pear ripens from the centre so harvest timing is even more critical, and pressing must be very gentle and careful. We’ve made small batch perries over the years, but this is easily the one we are most proud of. We are delighted with the results of our efforts and hoping that our customers will love it too. It is lighter and more aromatic than our session ciders and much more akin to our fine Katjas. At 7.5% ABV, it’s not designed to be glugged by the pint, but enjoyed in place of a glass of wine.”
Sandford Orchards 2024 Vintage Perry is crafted from Blakeney Red, Green Horse, Brandy and Gin pears. It is a delicate floral perry that is crisp, fragrant and fresh with ripe pear, citrus acidity and a subtle tropical nose. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, creamy pasta or grilled fish.
Founded in 2002, independent, family-owned Sandford Orchards is based in Crediton, Mid Devon in the oldest working cider mill in the UK. The area has long been known as one of the most fertile parishes in all of Britain, both for its grazing and ability to grow apples. Crediton sits in the lee of the moors, so receives the right amount of rain and the right units of heat in summer.
Sandford Orchards takes a fresh, natural and low impact approach to producing cider. Combining tradition and innovation, Sandford Orchards produces an award-winning range of core session, traditional, fine and fruit ciders.
For further information on Sandford Orchards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk, follow Sandford Orchards on X, Facebook and Instagram.
