SWECA members met at Green Valley Cyder, Darts Farm in Devon on 17th March for the 2016 Winter meeting.
A packed programme provoked lively discussion on a number of topics including the proposed PDO for Devon cider, Alcohol Wholesaler Registration Scheme and the excise levels for sparkling cider.
Andrew Lea gave an informative scientific presentation on how flavours are developed in cider during storage, a great insight for all into how common off flavours develop and how they can be controlled.
Fen Tyler, Chief Executive of the NACM covered the recent budget, an update on the 70HL exemption and thoughts on the new sugar tax and calorific values being included on labels.
During the meeting the annual cider competition took place with judges Bill Bradshaw and Chris Coles selecting the 2016 champion. The overall winner was Harry's Cider, pictured are Harry Fry and partner Ali with the SWECA cup and certificate.
Cider Competition results
Dry
1st Twinways Cider, Mark Rogers
2nd Green Valley Cyder, Chris Coles
3rd Copse House Cider, Bob Chaplin
Medium
1st Harry's Cider, Harry Fry
2nd Courteneys of Whimple, Paul Courteney
3rd Blackmore Vale Cider, Alan Berry
Sweet
1st Pilton Cider, Martin Berkeley