Stockley Cider

Robert Stockley says: "I'm a natural cider maker based in Somerset. My approach is rooted in simplicity and a deep respect for the land. Raised on an organic dairy farm, I grew up attuned to the changing seasons and the quiet abundance our countryside brings.

I produce cider on my family’s farm, working with fruit from traditional orchards, including forgotten orchards across Somerset and Dorset that I’ve been gradually restoring. Many of these orchards, once central to rural life, have been neglected. But, through gentle repair, I hope to bring them back into rhythm – reviving landscapes and ecology that grow not only naturally, but beautifully here.

Everything I do follows traditional methods, fruit that is hand-picked from the ground, milled, matured, pressed and fermented slowly with wild yeasts. I include no sulphites and intervene as little as possible, allowing time and nature to do the work. The result is quality cider with character – made to be appreciated."

Top Dog 2022:  A sweet, fruity rural method cider. A blend of the best fruit of 2022, using the varieties Yarlington Mill, Ashton Brown Jersey, Dabinett, Sweet Coppin and Browns. Sweet, sparkling, tropical notes. 4.5%

Leigh 2022: Medium, still. A single village selection from three young orchards in the Dorset village of Leigh. A surprisngly complex sweet cider with notes of brandy, straw, resin and caramel with a warming finish. 6.8%

Soirée 2022: Off dry, still. A blend that came together through the harvest. Notes of baked apple and golden syrup with prominent tannins, balanced with a small amount of residual sweetenss. 6.4%