Netherwood Estate Reserve 2020, 6.8%, (75cl)

The 2020 growing season was one of the best of the century for cider apples and it’s no surprise that the old orchards on the nearby Netherwood Estate were bursting with wonderful apples. In the late autumn we hand picked two varieties: the rare, evocatively named Brown Snout and a true classic, Yarlington Mill. Pressed together, the juice underwent natural fermentation, before heading to barrel – ex-white burgundy – to mature. After a few months the cider was bottled together with some cryo-extracted apple juice to develop some sparkle. Crafted specially for the sustainably-focused, Michelin-starred restaurant Pensons, in the glass this is a beautiful, deep, hazy orange colour. This is reflected in the aromatics which combine the scent of spiced oranges with something more earth bound and autumnal. On the palate, it’s super juicy and complex, laden with yellow fruits and overlaid by a herbal, floral quality, warm spices and distinct minerality that capture the whole of the orchard. Its soft tannins and perfume linger long at the finish. 6.8% abv Serve just below room temperature. Gluten free. Vegan friendly. No added sulphites.