A CIDER produced on a farm near Langport has achieved national recognition with two prestigious awards.

Artisan producer Harry’s Cider, based at Long Sutton, has been producing cider for five generations.

And the brand’s Original Cider and Harry’s Dabinett Cider picked up accolades at the recent Great Taste Awards – the world’s largest 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, 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”.

Judges added it was “easily enjoyable” and “a cider that people will be comfortable with”.

As well as that recognition, Harry’s Cider has also been shortlisted in this year’s British Farming Awards, for the Family Farming Business of the Year Award.

Organised by industry publication, Farmers Guardian, the 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, with the awards ceremony taking place on October 17 in Birmingham.

Alison Chapman, from Harry’s Cider, said: “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 and drink awards and then again with our shortlisting at the agricultural industry’s British Farming Awards.

The Original and Harry’s Dabinett Ciders picked up national recognition

“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 the family farm, with Alison heading up the commercial arm of the business.

The whole family is 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 at www.harryscidercompany.co.uk.