Recent cider convert Peter Morrell tastes this innovative and unique new hybrid

The image of cider has recentIy had a major uplift in its appeal. It has been elevated from a lad’s night out tipple to a refined and sophisticated drink, more at home in a champagne flute than a pint glass. Sip it like prosecco and enjoy its complex layers of flavours

Sandford Orchards Katja Rosé (ABV 8% 750ml RRP £10.40) is a delicious, new, sparkling, skin contact rosé cider, crafted from the dessert apple Katja, with Rondo grapes from Darts Farm’s Pebblebed Vineyard. Created using the Martinotti method and inspired by the fresh Proseccos of Venezia, it is a fresh and fruity cider which tastes of sun ripened cherries and peaches with notes of apple blossom and candyfloss, balanced with tannins from the wineskins. The addition of the Rondo grapes bestows wine notes and an unmistakable rosé finish to the cider. It retains all the fresh drinkability of a Katja cider but with added fruit and gentle complexity.

Peter Morrell, Editor comments “The cider pours a delicate pink colour and develops a fine layer of bubbles on the surface in a flute glass. The bouquet shows refreshing cherry aromas, and these persist on the palate, and are joined by more traditional apple flavours. Katja Rosé is very dry, which makes it ideal as an aperitif. The innovative addition of the Rondo grapes adds yet another dimension to this highly enjoyable drink. Finish wise, it’s bright, fresh and uplifting. A delight in its own right it is also the perfect accompaniment to lighter fare such as high tea or a salad niçoise.”

Sandford Orchards Katja Rosé (ABV 8%) is 750ml bottles RRP £10.40 and can be purchased from selected retail outlets, including Darts Farm or online at www.sandfordorchards.co.uk

Sandford Orchards

Founded in 2002, independent, family-owned Sandford Orchards is based in Crediton, Mid Devon in the oldest working cider mill in the UK. The area has long been known as one of the most fertile parishes in all of Britain, both for its grazing and ability to grow apples. Crediton sits in the lee of the moors, so receives the right amount of rain and the right units of heat in summer. Combining tradition and innovation, Sandford Orchards harnesses these natural assets to produce and award-winning range of core session, flavoured, traditional and fine ciders.