Sark cider makers looking for a Guernsey partner
LOCAL cider is back on the drinks menu in Sark.
But anyone wanting to try some will need to travel to the island, as it is not being sold anywhere else.
Islanders Anthony and Aga Beaumont, Sebastian Moerman and Jane Norwich were keen to bring production back to the island as it was part of the island’s heritage
‘Cider is part of the Channel Islands’ history, and lots of Sark dwellings incorporated a cider press,’ said Mr Beaumont.
‘It makes sense, as human history is all about people trying to make alcohol. The Channel Islands are no good for wine production and with our Norman history it makes sense that we would use apples. Cider was even traditionally paid in lieu of wages to farm workers.’
The producers use a variety of cider apples – mainly heritage varieties.
‘A good mix gives a delicious balance to the final product and allows for the poor cropping with one variety in one year to be made up with a good crop from another variety. It has a unique flavour, I would describe it as a traditional, light and refreshing taste.’
Mr Beaumont said this was the first local production for many years.
The team planted a small orchard six years ago, and the 600 trees are now mature enough to produce enough fruit for a local brew.
‘We press the apples in the autumn and ferment them over winter, for bottling in the spring. Last year we made 150 litres to test the process, this year it will be 600 litres or 1,200 bottles. It’s not massive yet but we are trying to scale it up.’
At the moment the cider is only sold on Sark, as the duty arrangements make it unaffordable to export, and it is available in local stores and restaurants.
The team involved also run the Sark Distillery, which produces Sark Gin.
Like the cider the gin is only available in Sark, but one product they hope to be able to export is their cider vinegar.
‘This is a by-product of the cider making process and it really is quite delicious,’ said Mr Beaumont.
‘We are looking for a Guernsey partner and would love to hear from anyone who would like to stock the product.’
