National award wins and shortlisting for Somerset craft cider producer

Local artisan producer Harry’s Cider has won two prestigious Great Taste Awards this year, as well as being shortlisted in the industry-leading British Farming Awards.

Both Harry’s Original Cider and Harry’s Dabinett Cider were awarded accolades at the Great Taste Awards – the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme.

Judges described the Original as having “a well rounded flavour rich with the apples used and a good smooth finish” as well as being “well balanced with the bittersweet notes and refreshing on the palate.”

Meanwhile the judges’ praise for the Dabinett included that it was “a deceptively simple, clean and clear delivery of Dabinett character. The aroma is gently fruity, the palate lightly effervescent.”  They remarked that it was “easily enjoyable” and “a cider that people will be comfortable with.”

In addition, Harry’s Cider has been shortlisted in this year’s British Farming Awards, for the Family Farming Business of the Year Award.

Organised by the industry publication Farmers Guardian, these awards celebrate pioneering farmers across all sectors who are leading in areas of technology, science, food production and sustainability. The British Farming Awards received a record-breaking number of entries and nominations this year, so to be shortlisted is a significant achievement. The awards ceremony will take place on 17th October in Birmingham.

Alison Chapman from Harry’s Cider says: “These latest awards and the shortlisting are a real boost for us all. It really is an outstanding achievement for a family-run artisan producer to be recognised at a national level – not once but twice at the best-known consumer food & drink awards and then again with our shortlisting at the agricultural industry’s British Farming Awards.

“This recognition for the hard work and commitment of our dedicated team is a great encouragement, as well as bringing a new mark of quality to our business. We strive to achieve the best in everything we do and are extremely proud of these prestigious endorsements. A good reason to celebrate!”

Harry’s Cider is produced by Harry and his son Toby on their family farm in Long Sutton, near Langport, with Alison heading up the commercial arm of the business. All the family are involved in the wider business activity, particularly at events held at the cider farm and local agricultural shows. Regular cider tours and tastings are held throughout the year at the farm, giving locals and tourists an opportunity to enjoy an orchard walk, learn about the cider-making process and sample some of their award-winning ciders. Tickets can be booked online via the Harry’s Cider website.