Ridge & Furrow Cider

The orchard came first here, and it shows. Planted on ridges with furrows cut between them for drainage, it is thought to date to the 1890s, and it still holds veteran trees including some Northwoods among more than 30 traditional Westcountry cider apple varieties: Kingston Black, Dabinett, Sweet Coppin, Yarlington Mill. Restored since the 1970s, unfertilised and unsprayed, it was designated a County Wildlife Site in Excellent Condition by Devon Wildlife Trust in 2013.

The cider is made in small batches from 100% fresh cider apple juice, with natural yeasts, a little sulphite and nothing else - no water, no sugar, no sweetener. Sweetness comes from arrested fermentation via repeated rackings over roughly six months, so ABV shifts with each harvest. Expect Naturally Sweet and Medium in 500ml bottles, bottle conditioned 750ml champagne style bottles and Bag in Box draught. Buy through stockists, online via Elston & Son, or email Justin to arrange local collection or delivery.