This autumn, I had the opportunity to explore Dorset Nectar, a family-run cider orchard in the heart of West Dorset. The tour, lasting a good 2-4 hours, offered a fascinating blend of history, culture, and sustainability, bringing to life the region's unique cider culture. Owned by the Strong family, Dorset Nectar spans nearly 3,000 trees, each a testament to a heritage that has endured wars, food shortages, and a rapidly changing world.
The history of cider in the UK stretches back centuries, deeply rooted in the land and customs of its people. Cider has been produced in the British Isles since the Norman Conquest, becoming the drink of choice by the 17th century, particularly in South West regions like Dorset. However, after World War II, Britain faced a significant setback in cider production, with orchards reduced by 80% due to food shortages and the need for more nutrient-rich crops, pushing traditional cider-making into the background.
Fortunately, recent years have seen a resurgence in appreciation for cider's heritage, with places like Dorset Nectar playing a vital role in reviving this unique cultural legacy. This revival aligns with a broader agritourism trend, attracting visitors eager to experience the art and history of cider-making firsthand while supporting local businesses and sustainable practices. This makes Dorset Nectar a perfect destination for day trips in Dorset, where you can immerse yourself in local tourism and contribute to the community.
Upon arriving at Dorset Nectar, I was warmly welcomed by Penny Strong, who, along with her family, has poured her passion and expertise into every corner of the orchard. Penny’s love for the land is evident, and she enthusiastically shared her knowledge of the orchard’s organic practices and commitment to supporting local communities.
The family approach is visible in every detail; each member plays a vital role, whether it’s caring for the trees, running tours, or managing production. This hands-on, sustainable ethos is a key part of Dorset Nectar's success, one that visitors can appreciate as they walk through the orchard and witness the hard work that goes into every bottle.
The tour began with a leisurely walk around the orchard, where Penny shared the rich history of cider in the UK, a tale intertwined with the land and customs of its people. Cider production in the British Isles dates back to the Norman Conquest, and by the 17th century, it had become the drink of choice in the countryside, particularly in regions like Dorset.
As Penny spoke about these traditions, she highlighted the Strong family’s commitment to organic and sustainable practices. One charming detail was the ancient practice of bread dunking: children would dunk bread in cider before placing it in the trees to attract birds that help control insects, naturally balancing the ecosystem.
This connection to nature reflects the deep-rooted cider culture that gave rise to wassailing, a winter ritual where villagers gathered in orchards, singing and toasting the trees to awaken them and ensure a bountiful harvest in the coming year. Cider culture became so entrenched that wassailing evolved into a beloved tradition, still celebrated today, weaving together community spirit and gratitude for nature's bounty.
Another example of organic ingenuity at Dorset Nectar is the use of bumblebees to pollinate the apple trees. These pollinators are essential to the health of the orchard, helping to ensure a fruitful harvest without the need for chemical fertilisers or pesticides. Witnessing this in action felt like a true immersion into nature’s rhythm, demonstrating how sustainability and tradition can work hand in hand.
A highlight of the tour was learning about the unique apple varieties that Dorset Nectar uses. The Dabinett apple, a classic English cider apple, is the star of their ciders. Although too bitter to be eaten raw, Dabinett apples are ideal for crafting cider due to their balanced tannin content, which lends depth and complexity to the final product. Once harvested in the main season, which spans from September to November depending on the age of the tree, the apples are processed through a careful, age-old method that allows the cider to mature by the following spring.
Penny guided us through the entire cider-making process, from the apple’s journey from tree to press to the final product. This dedication to craft is evident in every stage, with a focus on small-batch production that highlights the distinct flavours of each year’s harvest. Watching the process unfold, I gained a new appreciation for the artistry involved in making true craft cider; there’s no rush, only a commitment to quality and tradition.
The tour concluded in the tasting room, where I sampled four of Dorset Nectar’s medium-sweet ciders. Each one offered a unique blend of flavours, showcasing the versatility of the Dabinett apple. My personal favourite was the Elderflower Cider, which struck a perfect balance; sweet without being overpowering, with a delicate floral note that made it refreshing and memorable.
I also tried their apple cider vinegar, a slow-fermented product that takes around three years to make. This vinegar, known for its health benefits, is made from “the mother,” a culture of beneficial bacteria that supports digestion and overall health.
After the tour and tasting, I was treated to a delicious vegetarian Ploughman’s lunch. This traditional meal perfectly complemented the cider, offering fresh, local produce that rounded out the experience beautifully.
What struck me most about the Dorset Nectar experience was the Strong family’s unwavering commitment to supporting local businesses and the environment. Their craft ciders, made without additives, reflect a strong focus on sustainability through organic orchard practices and eco-friendly packaging.
Visiting Dorset Nectar is more than just a tour; it’s an immersive journey through time, craft, and community that offers rare insights into cider-making, the importance of sustainable practices, and the resilience of a family dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of British cider. By choosing to support local businesses like Dorset Nectar, we contribute to the sustainability of our communities and enjoy the fruits of their labour in the process. If you find yourself in West Dorset, I highly recommend stopping by to enjoy a glass of their Elderflower Cider and raise a toast to tradition, sustainability, and the spirit of craft cider.
Disclosure: The tour costs £15 per person, and if you’d like to enjoy lunch during your visit, the total is £25. Click here for more information about the tour and Dorset Nectar.
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