The Cider based, Ploughman`s lunch!

One of the great joys of owning a bottle shop, is the opportunity to visit the superb, artisenal producers who create the beers and ciders, which we then have the pleasure of introducing to our customers.

Yesterday, we took a short trip up to Rutland, to visit Charlie Udale, Cider maker at Manton Hollow Cidery. Charlie produces some absolutely fantastic ciders, and we left, laden down with some of his sweet Dabinett, 5.8% abv, Harry Masters, an off dry cider at 8.1% And a rather splendid dry and effervescent Traditional method 8.4% abv.

After a thoroughly pleasant afternoon in the sunshine, talking about all things cider and beer, (Charlie has brewed both, and very kindly presented us with a couple of bottles of his English Pale Ale. 4.3% and bottle conditioned, as a parting gift.) it was time to head home, to sample the goods!

Fortunately, on Tuesday, Gina had been to London`s Borough market and, in preparation for our visit to Rutland, had bought some Keen`s Cheddar and Colsten Basset Stilton from Neal`s Yard Dairy, and a sourdough baguette from Bread Ahead.

The various ciders complemented the cheeses wonderfully, however, we were unable to resist opening one of the beers as well. (obviously this was carried out in a professional, and scientific manner, and all in the name of R&D and quality control on behalf of our splendid customers.)

All in all it was a great day out, (I am not quite sure who enjoyed the day more, Gina and I, or Pepper, who got to meet Teddy. Charlie`s Spaniel.) and the most important thing is that we have begun planning Bottle & Board`s first Apple day event.

Saturday the 21st of October will see Bottle & Board hosting Manton Hollow Cidery for an afternoon of cider talks and demonstrations. More details will follow as soon as we have worked them out.

Cheers Chums!