Wilkin's Farmhouse Cider, Somerset, United Kingdom
While in Somerset I went out to Mudgley to try Wilkin's Farmhouse Cider. The owner wasn't available when I stopped in but two of the guys who make cider with him were kind enough to show me around. I was told that cider has been made on the farm for hundreds of years, but cider as a commercial venture was relatively new there, about 35 years now. They are using a Beare & Sons hydraulic press to crank out 1000s of gallons of tasty dry cider. The sign on the wall proudly boasts "Wilkins Cider Probably the Best Cider in the World". Not sure the origin of their claim, but it can't be far off. The guys there told me that there are about 200 varieties of apples being used to make their cider, with a handful of varieties being mainly used. I have a feeling they might be pulling my leg though! These guys have the best room in the back for drinking cider, a proper place for winding down mid-day. The hospitality here is unbeatable, you are greeted with an 8oz mug of your pick of cider when you walk in!